Charli XCX Transitions from Music Brat to Screen Actress

Charli XCX is making waves at the Sundance Film Festival, showcasing her transition from a music icon to a budding actress. This year, she features in three notable films, with the highlight being “The Moment,” a mockumentary that explores the cultural phenomena surrounding her rise to fame.

Charli XCX’s Film Appearances

At Sundance 2026, Charli XCX took center stage at the Eccles Theatre to promote “The Moment.” She described the film as reflecting the end of “Brat Summer,” a term she coined for the season that marked her explosive ascent in the music industry, which began in the summer of 2024.

• The Moment: A satirical take on the entertainment industry that features a fictionalized version of Charli.
• I Want Your Sex: An S&M comedy directed by Gregg Araki, where Charli plays against type as a disapproving girlfriend.
• The Gallerist: A satire of the art world directed by Cathy Yan, where she portrays a cliché influencer.

The Moment: A Reflection on Fame

“The Moment,” which premieres in theaters shortly after Sundance, follows Charli as she navigates the complexities of stardom. The film depicts the pressures of preparing for her first world tour while grappling with the expectations that come with her newfound fame.

The movie mixes humor and commentary on the music industry, with comparisons drawn to classic rock mockumentaries like “This is Spinal Tap.” It illustrates the absurdities of fame through Charli’s experiences, including her tumultuous interactions with directors and industry executives.

The Evolution of Charli XCX

Throughout the festival, Charli’s performances garnered mixed reactions. Critics noted her limited range in these roles, yet they acknowledged the cleverness of her portrayals, which often lean into her public persona. In “I Want Your Sex,” she subverts expectations by playing a more reserved character, while in “The Gallerist,” she embodies an exaggerated version of an Instagram influencer.

As she transitions from a music star to an actress, Charli’s films allow her to play with her image, both conforming to and mocking her celebrity status. “The Moment” serves as both a critique of the pressures of fame and an exploration of her personal and artistic identity.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Brat Summer

Charli XCX’s journey at Sundance signifies a pivotal shift in her career. “Brat Summer,” the defining era of her music, may be ending, but her foray into acting hints at a new chapter. As she heads toward the next phase of her career, audiences are eager to see how Charli will continue to evolve as both an artist and an actress.

By embracing change and examining her celebrity through various lenses, Charli XCX is poised to redefine herself in the entertainment landscape.