Charli XCX: A Star is Born in ‘The Moment’ as She Bids Farewell to Brat

PARK CITY, Utah — Charli XCX stars as herself in “The Moment,” a meta mockumentary that reflects on the conclusion of Brat summer and her journey through fame.

In a conversation with The Associated Press after the film's Sundance debut, Charli shared her motivation behind the project: "I was just really interested in telling this story about expectation." Since her career began at 16, she has navigated a winding path in the music industry. Her sixth studio album, "Brat," released in 2024, marked a pivotal point, making her feel understood for the first time, only for that feeling to slip away quickly.

"There was this persona people associated me with, and it came with high expectations that I struggled to meet," she explained. "Just when I felt understood, I found myself lost again." This paradox of success can be challenging for artists, as they often feel pressured to maintain a certain image rather than evolve.

Instead of a traditional documentary, Charli and director Aidan Zamiri crafted something more personal. “The Moment” blends elements of humor and absurdity, drawing inspiration from films like “This is Spinal Tap” and “Black Swan,” featuring cameos from celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Rachel Sennott.

"I won’t lie, there are definitely some crossovers between my life and the film’s narrative," Charli admitted. The film depicts her as she navigates the end of Brat summer, manages a concert film with Amazon, and deals with the demands of a demanding director portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård.

As the film gears up for its release, Charli’s enthusiasm is palpable. She ensured fans were included in the premiere, celebrating with them into the early hours. A self-proclaimed cinephile, Charli expressed her excitement about immersing herself in the filmmaking process, stating, "I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with such talented individuals in the industry." Her journey continues to evolve, and she is eager to learn more about every aspect of filmmaking.

This marks a significant milestone for Charli XCX, showcasing her growth not only as a musician but also as an emerging filmmaker.