Kristen Stewart playfully expressed her frustrations with Jesse Eisenberg after he previewed her directorial debut, “The Chronology of Water,” on his laptop instead of experiencing it in a theater. The film, an adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, tells the poignant story of a young woman dealing with childhood trauma and ultimately finding her voice through writing and swimming. Stewart, who has received acclaim for her acting, including an Oscar nomination for her role in “Spencer,” emphasized the film’s purpose as a “sonic experience,” lamenting that watching it on a screen did not do it justice.
The duo, who first met on the set of the 2009 film “Adventureland,” share a long history, which has seen them collaborate on multiple projects. Eisenberg, a fellow actor and now a director himself, commended Stewart’s ambitious approach to filmmaking and her unique style, stating that he was “blown away” by the film’s execution. Their candid conversation humorously oscillated between friendly jabs and insightful reflections about their evolution as artists.
Stewart revealed that creating “The Chronology of Water” was a labor of love that took nearly a decade to realize, and she felt the weight of responsibility on her shoulders throughout the process. Eisenberg reflected on their careers, noting that being recognized actors provides both opportunities and challenges to create unconventional work. Stewart noted that her film targets the universal struggle of young women finding their voice, emphasizing her desire to invite diverse interpretations rather than make definitive statements.
As the conversation continued, they explored the complexity of their roles as directors and actors. Eisenberg inquired about Stewart’s choice of the lead actress, Imogen Poots, and she shared how their connection as contemporaries shaped the film. Both actors expressed a desire to avoid the constraints of traditional film structures, advocating for creative freedom in their future projects.
Despite the challenges of marketing and potential box office success, Stewart is primarily concerned with the artistic integrity of her work. She hopes that a successful reception could pave the way for future projects that diverge from conventional narratives. The chat concluded with a light-hearted exchange about language barriers and the creative process, showcasing their strong friendship cemented by mutual respect and admiration in their artistic pursuits.
The exchange illustrates not only Stewart’s passion for filmmaking but also a refreshing attitude towards the industry, prioritizing creativity and personal expression over commercial viability. Their conversation sheds light on the evolving nature of storytelling and the significance of connections between artists as they navigate the intricacies of film.