Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tense, graphic, mature story of trauma, abuse, and survival.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
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Where to Watch
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The Chronology of Water
What's the Story?
Adapted from the same-named 2014 memoir, THE CHRONOLOGY OF WATER is a raw drama that explores main character Lidia Yuknavitch's (Imogen Poots) traumatic childhood, addiction, identity, and survival. It uses Lidia's lifelong passion for swimming as the central theme, with water serving as a constant metaphor for navigating intense memories of grief, sexuality, and self-destructive patterns. Ultimately, Lidia learns to reclaim her voice through her writing, empowering her storytelling to move beyond the fragments into a life of love, motherhood, and healing.
Is It Any Good?
Kristen Stewart's directorial debut pierces the water's surface as a jagged, rebellious, compelling memoir that refuses to be silenced. That being said, The Chronology of Water is certainly NOT for kids, as it immerses viewers in metaphors, imagery, symbolism, and themes that are dark, intense, and unsettling. Far from a traditional memoir, this film focuses on the emotional language that can sometimes feel too visceral, uncomfortable, and even unwelcome. Poots gives the performance of a lifetime, diving deep into difficult topics like childhood abuse, addiction, sexuality, and self-destruction.
The Chronology of Water doesn't hold back from looking at the ugly, shameful, and raw moments and secrets that are often hidden behind closed doors. It's a delicate balance of poetic expression and ferocious empowerment that's told in intense flashes of fractured memories and metaphorical escapes. In its use of words, imagery, and an onslaught of sensory experiences, this artful, impressionist film is ambitious and unflinching, drowning viewers in feelings when traditional storytelling falls short. As Stewart's directorial debut, this adaptation leaves a provoking, unapologetic, and haunting impression of empowerment, healing, and strength long after the credits roll.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Chronology of Water's focus on feelings, beyond just telling its story. Why do you think the story is told in fragmented pieces versus a straight line? How did that choice affect you? How does the director use senses to enhance the film's emotions?
How does this movie portray Lidia and her life? How does she demonstrate perseverance? What can viewers learn from her experiences?
Water is an important symbol in the film. How can symbols help tell a story, beyond what words can alone?
What questions does the movie leave unanswered? What audience do you think the film is for?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 9, 2026
- On DVD or streaming : March 27, 2026
- Cast : Imogen Poots , Thora Birch , Jim Belushi
- Director : Kristen Stewart
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Queer Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : The Forge
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Run time : 128 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : January 27, 2026
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