Kristen Stewart has entered a new phase in her career with the release of her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, which has secured a North American distribution deal and is slated for an Oscars-qualifying run this December. Building on her prominence as an actress celebrated for roles in films like Twilight and critically acclaimed projects including Spencer, Stewart now steps behind the camera with a film gathering strong critical support thanks to its bold storytelling and striking performances.
A Closer Look at The Chronology of Water’s Story and Cast
The Chronology of Water is a biographical drama adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, chronicling her escape from a traumatic childhood through a swimming scholarship. Kristen Stewart, who previously directed music videos for groups such as Boygenius and Chvurches, brings a visceral and intense vision to this story. The film stars Imogen Poots, whose powerful portrayal of Yuknavitch anchors the narrative, supported by a strong ensemble including Thora Birch, Tom Sturridge, Kim Gordon, and Jim Belushi as the author Ken Kesey.
Premiering at Cannes to high acclaim, the film achieved an exceptional 93% score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting broad critical enthusiasm. Patrice Witherspoon of ScreenRant praised Stewart’s direction and Poots’ performance, stating,
“Stewart directs the hell out of Imogen Poots as Lidia, who detaches from the painful experience of being sexually abused by her father (Michael Epp). Told in five chapters — holding breath, under blue, the wet, resuscitations, and the other side of drowning — this film isn’t just bold storytelling, it’s a phenomenon that drenches you with intensity. From the opening sequence, the whole point is to create thunderous encounters with your senses to bring you into Lidia’s mental state. At any given moment, you’re bound, by design, to feel its radical power.” —Patrice Witherspoon, ScreenRant
Distribution and Release Plans Allow Oscars Qualification
The North American distribution for The Chronology of Water has been acquired by The Forge, with a planned limited theatrical release this December to qualify for the Oscars, followed by a wider release in January 2026. This release strategy follows a common pattern for films seeking awards recognition, enabling them to meet Academy eligibility rules while expanding to broader audiences during less crowded market periods.
Kristen Stewart expressed her gratitude over the film‘s journey, saying,
“After eight long years of gestation, I am overwhelmed by the privilege of having The Chronology of Water be released in theaters with the full support and ambition of like-minded artists like the partners we’ve found at The Forge. Films like ours should be birthed onto the screen and I am grateful we found a team as committed to supporting independent filmmakers as they are.” —Kristen Stewart, Director
The Forge‘s leadership echoed the enthusiasm for the project. CEO Mark Mathias Sayre remarked,
“Kristen [Stewart] hasn’t just directed a film, she’s carved out a world with unmistakable vision: one that pulses with pain, desire, and defiance. The Chronology of Water is unlike anything we’ve ever released: visceral, expansive, and anchored by a performance from Imogen Poots that wrecks and rebuilds you. The film is a major achievement on every level, and we’re honored to bring it to North American audiences.” —Mark Mathias Sayre, CEO, The Forge
Decker Sadowski, head of acquisitions at The Forge, added,
“It’s a privilege to bring such a visionary directorial debut to North American audiences. The Chronology of Water is a film that leaves you changed: more powerful, more awake, and more free.” —Decker Sadowski, Head of Acquisitions, The Forge
Oscar Prospects and Competitive Landscape
The Chronology of Water is positioned as a contender for potential Oscar nominations, most notably in the categories of Best Actress for Imogen Poots and Best Director for Kristen Stewart. However, strong competition is anticipated in both categories from established filmmakers and acclaimed performers.
According to early industry forecasts from Variety, likely contenders for Best Director include Noah Baumbach for Jay Kelly, Ryan Coogler for Sinners, Guillermo del Toro for Frankenstein, Joachim Trier for Sentimental Value, and Chloé Zhao for Hamnet. Meanwhile, the predicted Best Actress candidates are Jessie Buckley in Hamnet, Rose Byrne for If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, Cynthia Erivo in Wicked: For Good, Renate Reinsve for Sentimental Value, and Julia Roberts in After the Hunt.
These early predictions face uncertainties, especially since Cynthia Erivo may be excluded due to a recent nomination for the same role in the previous Wicked film. Additionally, Guillermo del Toro could be overlooked as the Academy has often bypassed horror films in the Best Director category. This competitive environment leaves room for The Chronology of Water to secure nominations, particularly if the film’s staggered release garners momentum away from high-profile December blockbusters such as Avatar: Fire and Ash, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, and Anaconda.
Notable Cast Members and Their Contributions
The cast’s strong performances are central to the film’s impact. Imogen Poots delivers a transformative lead role as Lidia Yuknavitch, supported by Thora Birch, Tom Sturridge, Kim Gordon, and Jim Belushi. Belushi appears as Ken Kesey, the acclaimed author of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, adding further depth to the ensemble.
Looking Ahead for Kristen Stewart and The Chronology of Water
Kristen Stewart’s move into directing marks a significant milestone in her artistic journey, expanding her creative voice beyond acting. The accolades and distribution of The Chronology of Water reflect a compelling new chapter for Stewart, opening opportunities within the competitive awards landscape. As the film prepares for its wide release in early 2026, its critical acclaim and thematic boldness position it as a powerful contender during the upcoming awards season.
