Kristen Stewart has recently shared her motivation for transitioning from acting in front of the camera to taking on the role of a director. The Twilight star, now 35, made her directorial debut with “The Chronology of Water,” a film adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, and expressed her frustrations about the treatment of women in Hollywood during an interview with The Sunday Times.
Stewart candidly remarked, “Actresses get treated like s***,” highlighting the disparities between male and female actors in the industry. She noted that when she began discussing her film as a director, she experienced a level of respect and intellectual engagement that she felt was often denied to actresses. “People think anyone could be an actress, but this is a different experience,” she explained, emphasizing the need for recognition of women’s perspectives in filmmaking.
She described the outdated notion that only directors possess extraordinary abilities, which she criticized as a narrative largely perpetuated by men. Stewart lamented that actresses are often viewed as mere puppets rather than serious artists with depth and capability.
Reflecting on her experiences, Stewart shared a story about an encounter with a male actor, which underscored the difference in perception between genders within the industry. Despite feeling the weight of historical stereotypes, she has embraced her growth, saying that as she gains age, she feels more composed in expressing her thoughts and standing her ground.
Stewart’s new film, “The Chronology of Water,” premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival to critical acclaim, resonating with audiences for its exploration of tough themes such as childhood trauma and addiction. The film tells the story of Lidia, played by Imogen Poots, who rises to become a competitive swimmer after enduring a harrowing childhood.
Describing her motivation for directing, Stewart stated, “If I was a man I wouldn’t have made this movie,” and spoke about the societal pressures that women face in expressing their realities. She emphasized the necessity of pushing against the prevailing narratives to ensure women’s experiences are acknowledged and validated in cinema.
Stewart’s film received praise from critics, with Variety labeling it “a stirring drama of abuse and salvation, told with poetic passion.” Reflecting on her ambitions, Stewart expressed a desire to create films in Europe that she hopes to present to American audiences, indicating her commitment to telling diverse stories while navigating the evolving landscape of Hollywood.
While critiquing former President Donald Trump, with whom she has a turbulent history, she conveyed hope for positive change within the film industry and society at large, believing in the power of storytelling to create the desired reality. Stewart highlighted her journey from child actor to a multifaceted filmmaker, indicating a bright future in her new role behind the camera.
Having formed a bond with her wife, Dylan Meyer, in a low-key ceremony last year, Stewart continues to break barriers and inspire change through her work and personal life. Her journey is emblematic of a broader movement towards recognizing and celebrating women’s voices in filmmaking.