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Kristen Stewart's Directorial Debut Earns Acclaim at Cannes

The Chronology of Water, based on Lidia Yuknavitch's memoir, receives critical praise for its raw storytelling and bold visual style.

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British actress Imogen Poots (L) and US director Kristen Stewart at Cannes
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Overview

  • Kristen Stewart premiered her first feature film, The Chronology of Water, at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 16 to a standing ovation and widespread acclaim.
  • The film, co-written with Andy Mingo, is an adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir exploring themes of trauma, addiction, and self-discovery.
  • Imogen Poots stars as a young swimmer escaping an abusive home, delivering what critics describe as a career-defining performance.
  • Critics have praised Stewart’s avant-garde direction and emotional depth, with the film currently holding an 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
  • The Chronology of Water marks the first project from Stewart's production company, Nevermind Pictures, which she co-founded with her wife Dylan Meyer and producer Maggie McLean.