BIARRITZ, France — Academy Award-nominated actress and director Kristen Stewart will preside over the competition jury at the fourth edition of the Biarritz Nouvelles Vagues Film Festival, organizers announced Wednesday. The event, dedicated to showcasing emerging talent and films centered on youth, is set to run from June 23 to 28, 2026, in the coastal city of Biarritz in southwestern France.

Kristen Stewart

Stewart, 35, will lead an eight-member international jury tasked with awarding prizes in the festival's international feature film competition. The announcement highlights her alignment with the festival's ethos of independence, risk-taking and artistic freedom.

"Through her independence, her appetite for risk and her artistic freedom, Kristen Stewart naturally reflects the spirit that drives the Biarritz Film Festival," festival organizers said in a statement. The event, also known as Biarritz Film Festival – Nouvelles Vagues, emphasizes innovative cinema, particularly works exploring themes of youth, adolescence and coming-of-age stories.

The festival, supported by French luxury house Chanel, programs an international competition of eight previously unreleased feature films in France, alongside short films, special screenings, masterclasses, concerts and industry events. Calls for submissions for both features and shorts are currently open for the 2026 edition.

Stewart's selection comes on the heels of her directorial debut, "The Chronology of Water," which premiered to strong acclaim in 2025. Adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch's memoir, the film marked a bold transition for Stewart from acclaimed actor to filmmaker. It earned attention at major festivals and solidified her reputation as a champion of independent cinema.

Stewart has a long history with prestigious film juries and festivals. She previously served as president of the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) jury in 2023, where she led deliberations for the Golden Bear award. In 2018, she was a member of the Cannes Film Festival jury under Cate Blanchett's presidency. Her frequent presence at European festivals, including recent appearances at Deauville and Cannes, underscores her affinity for French cinema and independent storytelling.

The Biarritz Nouvelles Vagues Festival, now in its fourth year, has quickly established itself as a platform for fresh voices in global cinema. Unlike larger events like Cannes or Venice, it maintains a focused scope on youth-oriented narratives and emerging directors, often highlighting bold, unconventional works. Past editions have featured competitions blending international features with a vibrant cultural program, including beachside screenings and music events that reflect Biarritz's surf culture and relaxed vibe.

Stewart's involvement is expected to draw significant attention to the festival. Known for her roles in the "Twilight" saga, which launched her to global fame, Stewart has since built a career in auteur-driven projects. She earned an Oscar nomination for best actress for her portrayal of Princess Diana in Pablo Larraín's "Spencer" (2021) and has collaborated with directors such as Olivier Assayas in "Clouds of Sils Maria" (2014) and "Personal Shopper" (2016), the latter earning her a César Award for best supporting actress — making her the first American woman to win in that category.

Her recent work extends beyond acting. In addition to directing "The Chronology of Water," Stewart has been vocal about supporting independent filmmakers and challenging traditional industry norms. Festival organizers noted that her "appetite for risk" makes her an ideal figurehead for an event celebrating nouvelle vague-inspired innovation — a nod to the French New Wave movement that revolutionized cinema in the 1950s and 1960s with directors like Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut.

The 2026 lineup remains under wraps, but submissions are underway, signaling a competitive selection process. The festival will include a masterclass led by Stewart, offering attendees insights into her creative process and experiences in both acting and directing.

Biarritz, a picturesque Basque Country seaside resort known for its beaches and surf scene, provides a fitting backdrop for the event. The festival blends cinematic discovery with the region's cultural charm, attracting filmmakers, industry professionals and cinephiles alike.

Stewart's presidency is likely to boost the festival's profile internationally, especially as she continues to bridge Hollywood and European arthouse circuits. Her involvement follows other recent French festival appearances, including a masterclass on French cinema at Deauville in 2025 and red-carpet events showcasing her ongoing ties to the country's film community.

As the Biarritz Nouvelles Vagues Festival prepares for its June dates, anticipation is building around Stewart's jury leadership and the emerging films she and her colleagues will evaluate. The event promises to highlight the next generation of filmmakers while celebrating the bold, youthful spirit that defines both the festival and its new president.