Acclaimed actress and emerging director Kristen Stewart has cast significant doubt over her future residence in the United States, directly linking her potential departure to the political climate under President Donald Trump. In a revealing interview, Stewart stated she would "probably not" remain in the country while Trump holds office, expressing profound concerns about artistic liberty and the environment for filmmakers.
Creative Constraints Drive Filmmaking Abroad
Stewart's concerns are not merely theoretical but have already influenced her professional decisions. Her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, was filmed entirely in Latvia after she found it "impossible" to produce the project within the United States. This relocation underscores the tangible impact she perceives from the current American political and cultural landscape on creative industries.
A Strategic Shift Towards European Production
The actress-turned-director articulated a clear strategic vision for her future work, expressing a strong desire to make films in Europe. In a pointed remark, Stewart indicated she would then aim to "shove them down the throat of the American people," highlighting her intent to challenge domestic audiences with externally produced content that reflects her uncompromised artistic vision.
Historical Tensions with Trump
Stewart's current stance is informed by past interactions with the former and current president. She recalled Donald Trump's 2012 tweets commenting on her personal relationship, which she publicly addressed during her coming out on Saturday Night Live. These experiences have evidently shaped her perception of the political environment's effect on personal and professional life.
Contrasting Experiences: Acting Versus Directing
Beyond politics, Stewart highlighted a stark contrast in her treatment within the film industry between her roles as an actress and a director. She expressed feeling significantly more respected when working behind the camera, candidly noting that actresses are often "treated like s***" in Hollywood. This insight adds a layer of industry critique to her broader commentary on the American cultural climate.
Despite her strong reservations and potential relocation plans, Stewart clarified that she does not wish to "give up completely" on the United States. This nuanced position suggests a complex relationship with her home country, balancing disillusionment with a lingering connection, as she navigates her career in an increasingly polarized environment.
