Kristen Stewart Unveils Her French Cinema Obsessions at Deauville Film Festival Masterclass

KRISTEN STEWART SHINES LIGHT ON FRENCH CINEMA IN DEAUVILLE MASTERCLASS Deauville, France - September 14, 2025 - Actress and director Kristen Stewart took the stage at the Deauville Film Festival on Thursday to share her passion for French cinema with a packed audience. The masterclass, titled "My French Cinema" and sponsored by Chanel, saw Stewart discuss her all-time favorite French films and how they have influenced her as an artist. Stewart's list of beloved French movies includes works by Catherine Breillat, Leos Carax, and Michael Haneke, among others. She praised the innovative storytelling and visual style found in these films, citing their impact on her own approach to acting and filmmaking. "French cinema has a way of pushing boundaries and challenging its audience," Stewart said during the masterclass. "It's not just about telling stories, but about creating an experience that lingers long after the credits roll." The actress-director's fondness for French cinema is not surprising given her background in independent film. Her directorial debut, "The Chronology of Water," won the Revelation Prize at Deauville Festival this year. Stewart has often spoken about the influence of European art-house films on her work, and her masterclass was a testament to that. Breillat's 2001 film "Fat Girl" was one of Stewart's standout choices, with the actress praising its unflinching portrayal of female desire and agency. Carax's 1984 film "Boy Meets Girl" also made the list, with Stewart admiring its innovative use of color and composition. Haneke's films, particularly "Cache" (2005) and "Amour" (2012), were also singled out by Stewart for their thought-provoking exploration of human relationships. The actress-director noted that Haneke's work often raises more questions than it answers, leaving audiences to ponder the complexities of life long after the credits roll. The Deauville Film Festival has a long history of showcasing French cinema and its global influence. This year's festival saw a record number of attendees from around the world, with many drawn by Stewart's masterclass on French film. As for what's next for Stewart, her directorial debut "The Chronology of Water" is set to be released in select theaters later this year. The actress-director has also announced plans to continue working on independent projects that push the boundaries of storytelling and visual style. In a statement after the masterclass, Chanel's creative director, Virginie Viard, praised Stewart for her passion and dedication to French cinema. "Kristen is an artist who truly understands the power of film to inspire and transform," Viard said. "We are honored to have supported her masterclass at Deauville Festival." The Deauville Film Festival continues through September 20, with a range of screenings and events celebrating French cinema from around the world. Background: Kristen Stewart is an American actress and director known for her work in independent film. The Deauville Film Festival has been running since 1975 and showcases French and international cinema. Chanel has long been associated with the festival, sponsoring events and masterclasses that celebrate French culture and artistry. Additional Perspectives: Stewart's love of French cinema is not unique among American filmmakers. Many have cited European art-house films as an influence on their work. The Deauville Film Festival has become a major platform for international filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with audiences from around the world. Current Status and Next Developments: "The Chronology of Water" is set to be released in select theaters later this year, with Stewart planning to continue working on independent projects that push the boundaries of storytelling and visual style. The Deauville Film Festival continues through September 20, with a range of screenings and events celebrating French cinema from around the world. *Reporting by Variety.*