The Chronology of Water

If you're into raw, emotionally charged stories that dive deep into personal transformation, The Chronology of Water might be right up your alley. Directed by Kristen Stewart in her feature debut, this biographical romantic drama is based on Lidia Yuknavitch’s 2011 memoir. It follows a young woman growing up in a home marked by violence and addiction, and her journey to escape that world. Through literature and swimming, she finds her voice and begins to carve out a new identity—as a writer, a mother, and a teacher.

Imogen Poots takes on the lead role of Lidia Yuknavitch, with a supporting cast that includes Thora Birch, Earl Cave, Michael Epp, Susannah Flood, Kim Gordon, and Jim Belushi, who plays author Ken Kesey. The film was shot over six weeks in Latvia and Malta, giving it a unique visual backdrop that complements its intense emotional tone.

The Chronology of Water premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section and received a six and a half minute standing ovation. Critics have been largely positive, with the film holding a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 76/100 on Metacritic. Reviewers have praised Stewart’s bold directorial choices and the film’s unflinching look at trauma, identity, and healing. It’s not a light watch—expect challenging themes and a strong artistic style that might not be for everyone.

If you appreciate films that push boundaries and explore the complexities of personal growth, this one’s worth checking out. But if you’re looking for something more conventional or easygoing, this might feel a bit too intense or experimental. Either way, The Chronology of Water is shaping up to be a conversation starter and a significant moment in Kristen Stewart’s evolving career behind the camera.