Kristen Stewart has unveiled the first official trailer for her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water. This highly anticipated film is an adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s acclaimed memoir, featuring Imogen Poots in the lead role. The narrative follows a young swimmer grappling with trauma, addiction, and the journey of self-discovery through the transformative power of writing.
The film centers on Lidia, a once-promising athlete whose life descends into chaos due to unresolved childhood pain and substance abuse. Through her writing, she seeks to reconcile with her past and reclaim her identity. The newly released trailer hints at a visually arresting and introspective narrative, blending impressionistic underwater sequences with intimate emotional moments. Poots captures Lidia’s struggle and resilience, embodying a character both haunted and liberated by her memories.
Artistic Vision and Production Insights
In the trailer, water serves as a significant motif—representing both sanctuary and threat, mirroring Lidia’s tumultuous emotional landscape. “I was drowning long before I ever got in the pool,” Poots narrates, encapsulating the confessional tone that defines the story.
Stewart’s journey to the director’s chair has been long, with The Chronology of Water evolving over an eight-year period. Adapted and written by Stewart herself, the film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, earning standing ovations for its bold visual style and unflinching portrayal of recovery. In a statement, Stewart expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort behind the project, noting, “Films like ours should be birthed onto the screen.”
The Forge, an independent studio, has acquired the North American rights and plans a theatrical release in December 2025, followed by a wider rollout in January 2026. This timeline positions the film for awards consideration.
Cast and Critical Reception
Alongside Poots, the film features a strong ensemble cast, including Jim Belushi, Thora Birch, Charlie Carrick, Susannah Flood, Kim Gordon, and Tom Sturridge. Many cast members have praised Stewart’s hands-on, actor-focused approach to directing, which has fostered a supportive environment for creativity.
Following its debut, the film received critical acclaim. Reviewers described it as “a visceral, deeply human debut” and highlighted Poots’ performance as potentially career-defining, positioning her as a strong contender for upcoming awards. Stewart’s direction has drawn comparisons to established filmmakers like Andrea Arnold and Lynne Ramsay, known for their intimate explorations of trauma and resilience.
The title, The Chronology of Water, references both the nonlinear nature of trauma and the fluidity of healing. Yuknavitch’s original memoir, published in 2011, became a cult classic for its raw honesty regarding art, sexuality, and grief. Stewart’s adaptation channels the essence of this work, using water as a metaphor for destruction and rebirth.
With The Forge backing the film, it is positioned as a significant contender in independent film categories, including Best Actress, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Directorial Debut. Critics have described Stewart’s directorial debut as “an emotional exorcism—raw, brave, and deeply personal.”
Fans can now view the official trailer on The Forge’s YouTube channel, eagerly anticipating what promises to be one of the most compelling indie dramas of the year. The Chronology of Water is set to premiere in theaters in December 2025, with a nationwide expansion planned for January 2026.
