Kristen Stewart Takes the Reins as Jury President at Nouvelles Vagues Film Festival in Biarritz

Kristen Stewart has arrived in Biarritz, France to lead the jury at the Nouvelles Vagues International Film Festival, marking another major role in the festival circuit for the acclaimed actress and filmmaker.

The 36-year-old took her place at the opening ceremony on Tuesday, June 23, heading a competition jury made up of eight international figures. She appeared on stage alongside Marion Cotillard and Isabelle Huppert for the occasion, with all three dressed in Chanel for the event.

The festival celebrates films centered on young people navigating their identities and refusing conventional paths. Marion Cotillard introduced the documentary Rize by David LaChapelle, which explores urban dance culture and competitions including clowning and krumping.

Stewart's directorial work will also be featured in the festival lineup. She made her feature directorial debut last year with The Chronology of Water, which joins the program.

This jury position adds to Stewart's growing presence in festival leadership. She previously presided over the Berlinale jury in 2023 and served on the Cannes jury in 2018.

Earlier this month, Stewart's latest film project reached audiences at Cannes. Full Phil, starring Stewart alongside Woody Harrelson, premiered at the festival in May and earned a five-minute standing ovation. The film follows a father and daughter traveling to Paris to rebuild their relationship, only to find their plans complicated by French cuisine, a vintage horror film, and an intrusive hotel staff member.