Kristen Stewart’s Bold Directorial Debut ‘The Chronology of Water’ Earns Standing Ovation at Cannes

Adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, Stewart’s emotionally charged film explores trauma, identity, and artistic rebirth, with Imogen Poots delivering a standout performance.

Kristen Stewart’s long-anticipated directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, premiered to a warm reception at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday night. The film, an adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s 2011 memoir, delves into themes of trauma, addiction, and self-discovery. Stewart, who co-wrote the screenplay with Andy Mingo, brings a raw and experimental approach to the narrative, aiming to capture the fragmented, stream-of-consciousness style of the source material.

The screening concluded with a four-and-a-half-minute standing ovation inside the Palais des Festivals. An emotional Stewart embraced her cast, including lead actress Imogen Poots, who portrays Yuknavitch. Stewart expressed her gratitude to the audience, stating, “I don’t have anything else to say; I left it all on the screen… We got so lucky, and I’m so grateful to be here.”

Poots, taking the mic at Stewart’s behest, added, “She’s the best director, and I hope you all liked the movie.”

The film’s production was a collaborative effort, with Ridley Scott’s Scott Free Productions among the producers. Filming took place in Latvia and Malta over six weeks in 2024. The cast features Thora Birch, Earl Cave, Kim Gordon, and Jim Belushi in supporting roles.

The Chronology of Water is part of a notable trend at Cannes this year, with several actors making their directorial debuts. Scarlett Johansson is set to unveil Eleanor the Great, starring 95-year-old June Squibb, while Babygirl star Harris Dickinson will premiere his feature drama, Urchin.

Stewart’s transition from actress to director marks a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her commitment to telling stories that resonate on a deeply personal level.