After more than 25 years in front of the camera, Kristen Stewart has experienced a shift in how Hollywood treats her since her Kristen Stewart directorial debut. The Oscar-nominated actress shared that making her first film as a director, The Chronology of Water, changed industry perceptions, leading people to finally recognize her intelligence and capability.
During an interview with The Times UK, Stewart revealed that she is now approached with newfound seriousness. She said she is treated
“like I’m somebody with a brain”
since stepping behind the camera. This shift contrasts with her past experiences as an actress, where she felt underestimated.
Challenges Faced by Actresses in Hollywood
Stewart spoke candidly about the difficulties female actors face in the industry. She expressed frustration with how actresses are often undervalued, stating,
“Actresses get treated like sh*t, I’ve got to tell you, people think anyone could be an actress, but the first time I sat down to talk about my movie as a director, I thought, wow, this is a different experience, they are talking to me like I’m somebody with a brain.”
She described the contrasting respect shown to directors compared to actors, especially women.
She criticized the myth that directors possess extraordinary abilities, pointing out that this perception is mostly propagated by men. Stewart acknowledged the harsh realities faced by female actors, noting,
“Not to sound like I’m complaining all the time, but it’s worse for female actors than male ones — they get treated like puppets, but they are not.”
The Intensity Behind Directing The Chronology of Water
Stewart described the demanding nature of directing her debut feature, highlighting the dedication required. She praised the film’s lead, Imogen Poots, for her commitment, saying Poots
“put her whole body and soul into this movie.”
Stewart also shared her own experience, stating,
“Film is 100 per cent all-consuming. I was a maniac on this movie. I barely existed outside of it, but I’ve never felt more alive.”
The Chronology of Water is adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s 2011 memoir and follows the story of a young woman who becomes a competitive swimmer after enduring an abusive childhood. The film debuted last year at Cannes and is currently showing in theaters.
Impact of Stewart’s Shift to Directing on Hollywood
Kristen Stewart’s move into directing has not only transformed how she is perceived but also highlights ongoing issues of gender inequality in the industry. Her experience underscores the challenges actresses confront and suggests a path toward greater respect for women’s voices behind the camera. As Stewart continues to build her career as a director, her story may inspire others to challenge outdated industry norms and demand more equitable treatment.
