Kristen Stewart Discusses Challenges of Filmmaking in Today’s Reality Under Trump
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, has garnered significant acclaim since its festival release, drawing attention to the challenges of producing an independent film that emphasizes a female perspective. In a recent profile with The Times (U.K.), Stewart expressed her concerns regarding the viability of her directing ambitions within the United States.
Reflecting on the creative environment in America, Stewart stated, "It would have been impossible [to make The Chronology of Water] in the States." The film, featuring Imogen Poots, was shot in Latvia, partly due to fears surrounding the proposed 100% tariff on foreign films introduced during Donald Trump’s administration. Although this tariff has since become less of a focal point, Stewart described such threats as "terrifying" for the film industry.
The actress, known for her outspoken views on political matters, remarked, "Reality is breaking completely under Trump," advocating for a proactive approach to creating desired narratives. She pondered the possibility of relocating abroad for her work, aligning herself with other prominent filmmakers such as James Cameron, who recently moved to New Zealand. "I can’t work freely [in the U.S.], but I don’t want to give up completely. I’d like to make movies in Europe and then shove them down the throat of the American people," she noted.
Stewart highlighted the importance of presenting a woman’s perspective in her adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, asserting, "History really matters. It tells you you are either allowed to be here or not." She emphasized the changing dynamics surrounding equality and representation in storytelling.
In discussing her experiences as an actress versus those as a director, Stewart observed a stark contrast in treatment. "Actresses get treated like shit, I’ve got to tell you," she stated. She reflected on her initial discussions about her film as a director, experiencing a more respectful dialogue that recognized her intellect: “This is a different experience, they are talking to me like I’m somebody with a brain."
She concluded with a critique of the perception of directors, noting, "There’s this idea that directors have otherworldly abilities, which is not true. It’s an idea perpetuated by men. 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. Imogen put her whole body and soul into this movie."
