The Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival is a distinguished platform designated for films that exhibit unconventional styles and narratives. One standout entry is The Chronology of Water, which elevates the theme of resilience as it captures a woman’s difficult journey through trauma. Kristen Stewart, best known for her roles in Happiest Season and the Twilight series, makes her feature directorial debut, marking her seventh appearance at Cannes in a remarkable showcase of her filmmaking talents.
This film embarks on a heartfelt journey through the life of an aspiring Olympic swimmer, marked by a series of fragmented, poignant memories that flow with a poetic rhythm. In a departure from conventional storytelling, Stewart refrains from crafting Lidia’s narrative into a neatly packaged story with a defined start and finish. Instead, she embraces the complexities and messiness of life, illustrating Lidia’s triumphs with a sincere, unembellished lens.
The Chronology of Water: An Immersive Experience
Stewart’s visionary direction brings life to Imogen Poots’ portrayal of Lidia, who struggles to detach from the traumatic memories of sexual abuse inflicted by her father (Michael Epp). Divided into five chapters — Holding Breath, Under Blue, The Wet, Resuscitations, and The Other Side of Drowning — the narrative isn’t merely bold; it is a visceral experience that envelops viewers in intensity. The film opens with sequences designed to create profound sensory impacts, immersing audiences in Lidia’s emotional state.
As Lidia’s memories spiral, so too does her ability to cope, often leading to self-destructive behaviors, including alcohol abuse, which costs her a swimming scholarship. However, it is from this nadir that she begins to reclaim her identity and voice. A pivotal moment occurs when she reconnects with her sister (Thora Birch) during a low point. It is while writing under the mentorship of Ken Kesey (Jim Belushi) at the University of Oregon that Lidia starts to transform into a healthier version of herself.
Kristen Stewart: A Natural in Directing
Stewart’s debut film serves as a canvas that explores themes of ephemeral pain, compassion, desolation, and ultimately, love. Even after the credits roll, viewers are left with the undeniable impression that Kristen Stewart belongs behind the camera, crafting narratives infused with sincerity and boldness. More than just a tale of survival, The Chronology of Water is about finding one’s voice and agency on personal terms, an inspiring message that resonates deeply.
Moreover, Stewart’s direction invites audiences to experience Lidia’s transformations intimately. Shot on 16mm film, the visuals create a documentary-like quality that adds layers of authenticity and rawness. Working alongside cinematographer Corey C. Waters, the production team captures the contrasting vibrancy of Lidia’s life, even during her darkest moments, thanks to the design work by Jennifer Dunlap.
Indeed, the vibrant artistry of this film is largely a result of Stewart’s free-spirited approach to filmmaking. Imogen Poots delivers an extraordinary performance, embodying Lidia’s chaotic journey across 128 minutes filled with emotional turmoil and fragmented memories. Stewart and Poots form a formidable duo, and one can only hope for future collaborations that further explore such rich narratives.
In this lifetime, few are privileged to fully unleash their artistic potential to produce works of profound impact. Kristen Stewart is among those fortunate individuals. The Chronology of Water stands out as an impressive debut, overflowing with confidence, authenticity, and depth. Witnessing this story — rooted in trauma yet emerging as a beacon of growth and agency — exemplifies the essence of fine art. If Kristen Stewart chooses to continue her journey behind the lens, the future of filmmaking looks exceptionally bright.