At a Glance
- Kristen Stewart says directors are treated with respect, actors still face sexism.
- She notes that after directing The Chronology of Water, she was spoken to differently.
- Stewart highlights ongoing sexism and her plans to refocus before her next film.
- Why it matters: It reveals industry bias and Stewart’s shift from actress to filmmaker.
Kristen Stewart, who has accumulated more than 63 screen credits, recently reflected on how her career changed after she directed her first feature film, The Chronology of Water. In an interview with The Times published on January 24, she explained that she was treated with a new level of respect once she stepped behind the camera. The actress-turned-filmmaker also spoke about persistent sexism in Hollywood and her plans to take a break before her next project.
From Actress to Director: A New Perspective
Stewart premiered The Chronology of Water at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, before the film opened in the United States in December and in January. The movie, adapted from Lidia Yuknvavitch’s 2011 memoir of the same name, stars Imogen Poots as the author. The film’s release schedule demonstrates the international journey of a debut feature.
- May 2025 – Cannes premiere
- December 2025 – U.S. theatrical release
- January 2026 – International release
Industry Perception Shift
Stewart said, “Actresses get treated like s—, I’ve got to tell you,” adding that “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 further explained that “There’s this idea that directors have otherworldly abilities, which is not true. It’s an idea perpetuated by men,” and that “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.”
- “Actresses get treated like s—, I’ve got to tell you” – Stewart
- “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.'” – Stewart
- “There’s this idea that directors have otherworldly abilities, which is not true. It’s an idea perpetuated by men.” – Stewart
- “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.” – Stewart
Personal and Professional Milestones
Beyond her directing debut, Stewart has built a diverse portfolio of more than 63 screen credits since her first acting role in The Safety of Objects (2001). She married producer and co-director Dylan Meyer in 2025, and they are collaborating on an upcoming film that Meyer, 38, is directing. Stewart described 2025 as “the craziest year of my entire life” due to the film, marriage, and new project.
- 2001 – Acting debut in The Safety of Objects
- 2025 – Married Dylan Meyer
- 2025 – Released The Chronology of Water
- 2025 – Working on new film directed by Meyer
Film Reception
Critics praised The Chronology of Water for its intimate storytelling and Stewart’s direction. Reviewers highlighted the performances, especially Poots, and the film’s exploration of memory and identity.
- Positive reviews for its intimate narrative
- Strong performances by Imogen Poots
- Themes of memory and identity
Advocacy for Women
Stewart has long used her platform to highlight gender inequality. In 2011, she told Harper’s Bazaar U.K. that Hollywood is “disgustingly” sexist, saying “It’s crazy. It’s so offensive, it’s crazy.” She has continued to speak out at industry events, calling for change.
- Vocal about sexism since 2011
- Calls for gender equity in Hollywood
- Advocates for authentic storytelling
Future Projects
Stewart plans to take a break to recharge before returning to filmmaking. She hinted at a new project that will involve a different genre and a collaboration with her husband, Meyer, who has directed a film she will star in.
- Rest before next project
- New genre collaboration with Meyer
- Potential film starring Stewart
Early Career
Stewart began acting as a child, appearing in The Safety of Objects (2001) and later gaining fame as Bella Swan in the Twilight saga.
2001 Role
Her debut role in The Safety of Objects earned her recognition and set the stage for a prolific career with over 63 screen credits.
2025 Film Release
The film’s release in December 2025 marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Stewart’s transition from actor to director and her commitment to telling authentic stories.
2026 Interview
In a January 4, 2026 interview with News Of Los Angeles, Stewart emphasized the importance of rest and reflected on the intense creative process that defined her latest work.
2025 Marriage
Her marriage to Dylan Meyer, a producer on The Chronology of Water, added a personal dimension to her professional journey.
Activism
Stewart’s outspoken stance on sexism has made her a prominent advocate for gender equity in Hollywood.
2011 Comment
Her 2011 remarks about Hollywood’s sexism were echoed in later interviews, underscoring her persistent advocacy.
2025 Awards
The Variety Creative Impact Awards highlighted Stewart’s dual role as actress and director, celebrating her contributions to the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Directors receive more respect, actors still face bias.
- Stewart’s debut film opened at Cannes in May 2025.
- She plans to rest before pursuing her next project.
