Kristen Stewart has celebrated a significant milestone in her career as she received her first award as a director at the 2025 Deauville American Film Festival in Deauville, France. Her film, The Chronology of Water, was honored with the prestigious Revelation Award on September 13, 2025, marking a notable achievement in her transition from actress to filmmaker.
In her acceptance speech, Stewart revealed the challenging journey behind the creation of the film, which took eight years to develop. Based on the memoir by Lidia Yuknavitch, the story follows a woman, portrayed by Imogen Poots, who overcomes an abusive childhood. She channels her trauma into competitive swimming, navigating toxic relationships and addiction, before ultimately finding her voice as a writer.
Stewart Reflects on Her Journey
Stewart expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to direct, stating, “It was enough for me to even be allowed to make this movie. I understand it’s a common story for first filmmakers to have it feel impossible, but the uphill battle on this one felt so personal and not for me, but for me, girl.”
She elaborated on the film’s themes, mentioning the difficulty of conveying such profound experiences: “I was trying to make a movie about bleeding, and the digging and the climb that it takes to unearth a voice in a world masterfully designed to silence us — It took 8 f–king years.” Her passion for the subject matter resonated with the audience, further emphasizing the personal nature of her work.
The Chronology of Water debuted earlier this year at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, receiving positive feedback for its bold storytelling and emotional depth. Stewart’s directorial vision has not only showcased her talents behind the camera but also highlighted her commitment to narratives that challenge societal norms.
Support for Friends and Fellow Filmmakers
During the festival, Stewart also showed support for her friend Zoey Deutch, who was presented with the Hollywood Rising Star Award. This camaraderie reflects the collaborative spirit of the film industry and the importance of uplifting one another in their respective journeys.
As Kristen Stewart continues to navigate her new role as a director, her achievements at festivals like Deauville underscore her evolving artistic identity. With The Chronology of Water setting a strong precedent, audiences can anticipate more impactful stories from this talented filmmaker in the future.
