In a candid new conversation for Variety's "Directors on Directors" series, actors and filmmakers Kristen Stewart and Jesse Eisenberg shared profound insights into their transition behind the camera. The duo, who have collaborated since the film Adventureland, opened up about how directing has transformed their approach to acting, storytelling, and navigating the pressures of the film industry.
From Actors to Directors: A Shift in Perspective
Kristen Stewart, who recently made her feature directorial debut with The Chronology of Water, explained that the experience fundamentally altered her view of filmmaking. She revealed that directing has made her more protective of her creative work, especially in the editing process. Stewart joked with Eisenberg about her new mindset, saying she now gets upset when edits are made without her, watching cuts on a laptop and questioning every change.
Jesse Eisenberg echoed this sentiment, stating that stepping into a director's role changes how one sees fellow actors. "You start seeing actors with a different kind of respect," Eisenberg noted, emphasizing that directing deepens one's understanding of true collaboration. Both agreed that the experience has made them more empathetic toward the crafts of others on set.
Creative Freedom vs. Studio Constraints
The conversation took a critical turn as Stewart contrasted her experience making an independent film like The Chronology of Water with the realities of larger Hollywood studio productions. She positioned her directorial work within the broader context of industry pressures, indicating that big-budget movies often come with creative constraints that can limit an artist's voice.
"It's a different kind of challenge, but it felt like something I was ready for," Stewart said about helming her debut feature, where she could fully pursue her personal vision without compromise. This freedom, she suggested, is harder to find within the traditional studio system.
Future Ambitions and a Potential Twilight Return
Looking ahead, both creatives discussed how directing has influenced their future projects and ambitions. Notably, Kristen Stewart publicly addressed the long-standing speculation about her interest in directing a major studio project—specifically, a potential reboot of the Twilight franchise that launched her to global fame.
She expressed enthusiasm for the idea, provided she could bring a fresh perspective and have significant creative control. "Imagine if we had a huge budget and a bunch of love and support. Yeah, sure, I'll do the remake. I'm doing it! I'm committed!" Stewart announced at a recent industry event, sparking excitement among fans.
Their dialogue offers a rare glimpse into how actors expanding into directing roles navigate identity, influence, and creative authority in an industry that often pigeonholes talent. The discussion between Stewart and Eisenberg underscores the artistic rewards of filmmaking alongside the institutional challenges, highlighting a dynamic evolution as performers take on multifaceted roles behind the camera.
