Thank you for lighting a fire under my ass,Kristen StewarttoldSundances Opening Night gala tonight.

she added taking the stage to receive the Visionary Award from her co-star of 3 films,Jesse Eisenberg.

At the mic, Stewart said, Twenty years ago.

2024 Sundance Film Festival - Opening Night Gala: Celebrating 40 Years

(L-R) Christopher Nolan, Kristen Stewart, Celine Song & Maite AlberdiMagnus Nolan/Brian Bowen Smith/Matthew Dunivan/Courtesy

I could barely speak English when I was spoken to.

I got my first pair of ugg boots.

This was a place full of Yes in a world full of No, she praised Sundance.

Chiwetel Ejiofor, June Squibb, Steven Yeun, Kristen Stweart, Andra Day, Pedro Pascal, Lio Mehiel, Saoirse Ronan, Aubrey Plaza & Kieran Culkin at Sundance Festival 2024

Not everyone in the world does.

And I will not take No for answer!

A patriotic, indie proclamation which drew great applause from the benefactors and industry guests in the room.

Alberdi was honored for her work highlighting the art of storytelling and creative independence in nonfiction.