Kristen Stewart, acclaimed actress and director, recently shared her views on the challenges of working in the United States film industry during an interview with The Times. Stewart, who made her directorial debut with The Chronology of Water in 2025, expressed doubts about her future projects in the US, stating that she “can’t work freely there.”
In her candid remarks, Stewart elaborated on her desire to create films outside of the US for American audiences. “Probably not,” she responded when asked about long-term plans to work in the States. She emphasized her commitment to filmmaking, saying, “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.”
The Chronology of Water, filmed in Latvia, has received widespread acclaim since its limited theatrical release on January 9, 2026. Stewart noted that the project would have been “impossible to do in the States,” highlighting the difficulties she faces within the American film landscape.
Stewart’s concerns about the current political climate also surfaced during the interview. Referring to the administration of former President Donald Trump, she stated, “Reality is breaking completely under Trump. But we should take a page out of his book and create the reality we want to live in.” For Stewart, filmmaking serves as a vital means of engagement with the world.
The actress has not only acted in major films but has also directed music videos and the short film Come Swim, released in 2017. Her ambitions extend beyond just directing; she aims to influence how stories are told and perceived globally.
As Stewart continues to navigate the complexities of the film industry, she remains dedicated to her craft and to storytelling. “It’s how I relate to the world,” she concluded, signaling a commitment to creating impactful cinema that resonates with diverse audiences.
