Julia Stiles Makes Directorial Debut With 'Wish You Were Here'

The actress-turned-director draws on motherhood as inspiration for leadership on set in her first feature film, a romantic drama based on Renée Carlino's novel.

• Julia Stiles, 43, directed and co-wrote 'Wish You Were Here,' her first feature film, which premieres in theaters on January 17, 2025.
• The film, based on Renée Carlino's bestselling novel, stars Isabelle Fuhrman, Mena Massoud, Jennifer Grey, and Kelsey Grammer, exploring themes of love and loss.
• Stiles credits motherhood with preparing her for directing, emphasizing skills like multitasking, emotional management, and thinking ahead as key overlaps between parenting and filmmaking.
• Her eldest son, Strummer, visited the set and was captivated by seeing his mother in a leadership role, marking a meaningful moment for the actress-turned-director.
• Stiles expressed pride in her directorial debut and reflected on her growth in the film industry, highlighting her new perspective from working behind the camera.

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