Kristen Stewart Voices Anger Over The Film Industry's Regression for Women

Stewart delivering a speech
Stewart delivered these comments at a luncheon organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

The renowned actress and filmmaker has declared she is “so angry” that advancements for female directors in the film industry have reversed after a short-lived surge of improvement following the #MeToo era.

The Twilight star, who directed the forthcoming film The Chronology of Water, delivered an emotional speech at a female-focused event in LA organized by the Oscars organization.

“The regression from a short period of progress is alarming by the numbers,” she told the audience. “A disappointingly low figure of films from the past year have been directed by female filmmakers.”

A yearly study that tracks the numbers of women directors stated that eleven of the top 100 films of 2024 were directed by women, a decrease from 16 in 2020.

‘Boys’ Club Business Model’

During her speech, Stewart said: “In a post-MeToo moment, it seemed possible that stories made by and for women were finally getting their due. That we could be permitted or even encouraged to share our views and our shared experiences, every aspect of our lives without filter.

“However, I can confirm to the bare-knuckle brawling that it takes every step when the content is too grim, too taboo, when the frankness with which it serves up observations about situations routinely experienced by women, often elicits disgust and rejection.”

She continued: “We can talk about wage gaps and taxes on tampons and measure [inequality] in many measurable forms. But the act of muting voices, it’s like we’re not even supposed to be angry. But I can eat this podium with a utensil and sharp tool. I’m furious.”

Attendees listening to Stewart’s speech included several prominent actresses.

Stewart received multiple ovations during the duration of her brief talk.

“I appreciate you,” she said. “I am not grateful a boys’ club business model that pretends to want to hang out with us while draining our assets and diminishing our genuine viewpoints. We must avoid being used as tokens. It’s time to create our own value.”

New films from a few women filmmakers are in the running for the forthcoming Oscars race, but the best director category is anticipated again to be dominated by men.

Tammy Bonilla
Tammy Bonilla

A seasoned content curator specializing in adult entertainment, with a passion for sharing high-quality media and insights.