At the California premiere of “Seberg,” during the Mill Valley Film Festival, temperatures hit the high 80s, and an ever-so-tenuous but exceedingly-welcoming breeze navigated the red carpet as Kristen Stewart nonchalantly arrived in casual fashion, seemingly balking at the concept of celebrity as her flurry of fans ironically begged and pleaded for autographs and selfies. In conjunction with the California Film Institute, the “Spotlight on Kristen Stewart” written in bold letters above the theater solidified the ceremonious, tributary occasion.
Like Jean Seberg, Stewart is a larger-than-life public figure, but she carries herself in a humble, sincere, and altruistic fashion. Unlike many celebrities who can get trapped in the intoxicating appeal of the spectacle of fame, Stewart continues to stay grounded.
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“Seberg” tells the tragic, true story about actor and activist Jean Seberg (Stewart), who came under intense public and private national scrutiny when she became involved with the Black Panther Party in the late 1960s. Stewart immediately connected with the role and championed the film.
“We really were concerned with distilling this person’s energy and life force into something that felt expansive,” Stewart said.
As part of the event, she received the MVFF Award, yet another prestigious accolade to add to her shelf along with her César Award (the French equivalent to an Academy Award). Although hearing her speak about her career, one gets the notion that Stewart doesn’t do this for the awards, just as she doesn’t do this for the fame, nor does she do it for the money.
She explained, “I’ve been really lucky to just have diversified interests.”
Indeed, her interests continue to expand as she moves into directing.
Stewart’s upcoming feature directorial debut, “The Chronology of Water,” is her passion project. And, having wanted to make films since a child, it’s been a long time coming. In typical Stewart fashion, in a tone doused with humility, the multihyphenate said, “I’m so lucky. I can’t wait to make it.”
“Seberg” screened at the Mill Valley Film Festival on October 7, 2019. It will begin a theatrical run on December 13. Watch the full interview below.