Kristen Stewart’s Bold First Film Dives Into Trauma, Survival, and Unfiltered Truth

The debut trailer for Kristen Stewart’s first feature behind the camera has arrived, and it’s anything but ordinary. Imogen Poots takes on the role of Lidia Yuknavitch, whose life story forms the backbone of this intense, visually striking film. The project, which made waves at Cannes earlier this year, immediately set itself apart with its daring, symbolic style and willingness to confront difficult realities head-on.

From the opening moments, the trailer signals that viewers are in for a challenging, deeply personal experience. Stewart’s vision is unapologetically abstract, using powerful imagery and unconventional storytelling to capture the chaos and pain of Yuknavitch’s journey. Early festival audiences responded with enthusiasm, praising the film’s emotional honesty and creative risks.

At its core, the movie adapts Yuknavitch’s memoir, chronicling her turbulent upbringing in a fractured family marked by violence and trauma. The narrative follows her attempts to escape through competitive swimming and substance use, before ultimately finding a path to healing through writing. Stewart spent nearly a decade bringing this adaptation to life, and her commitment is evident in every frame.

Shot on 16mm film and produced by a dedicated team, the movie earned a lengthy standing ovation at its festival premiere. With a runtime just over two hours and a near-perfect score from early critics, it’s clear that Stewart’s first outing as a director is resonating with audiences and industry insiders alike.

Unlike many recent biopics that play it safe or chase awards, this film refuses to sanitize its subject matter. Stewart’s approach is raw and unfiltered, refusing to shy away from the brutality of Yuknavitch’s experiences. The result is a work that feels both deeply personal and universally relevant, especially for women who see their own struggles reflected on screen.

Throughout the film, Stewart challenges the conventions of how women’s stories are told in cinema. She pushes boundaries, both in terms of content and form, to create a space where difficult conversations can happen. The film doesn’t just dwell on pain; it also highlights the resilience and strength that emerge from adversity. Yuknavitch’s journey is depicted with a level of honesty and intensity rarely seen in mainstream releases.

As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build. Stewart’s directorial debut promises to spark discussion and leave a lasting impact on viewers. The film is set for a wide release in early January 2026, and many are eager to see if its critical acclaim will translate into commercial success. For those ready to confront uncomfortable truths and witness a story of survival and transformation, this is one not to miss.

The Chronology of Water opens in the United States on January 5, 2026.