Charli XCX’s new mockumentary, The Moment, has received mixed reviews following its world premiere at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.
Produced by A24, the film is a fictionalised account of the cultural phenomenon surrounding her Brat album, released in 2024. It follows the singer during the lead-up to her world tour.
The 33-year-old pop star, born Charlotte Aitchison, plays a fictionalised version of herself. The film also features appearances by Kylie Jenner, Alexander Skarsgård, and Rosanna Arquette.
Charli XCX rose to global fame with her sixth studio album, Brat, released on June 7, 2024. The album sparked the viral “Brat summer” trend on social media, influencing fashion with its neon green and black cover.
Critics have given The Moment mixed feedback. The Hollywood Reporter described it as “more fan service than funny,” adding that the film entertains only “for a while.” The review suggested it could have been more broadly accessible. However, the magazine praised Charli as a “natural, engaging actor.”
Entertainment site The Playlist also praised her performance, calling a monologue “borderline heartbreaking” and “startlingly good.” The review added: “Love it or hate it, this film will linger with you.”
Meanwhile, Variety criticized the film as “unconvincing,” arguing it should have leaned further into “crackpot satirical extremes.” The outlet said this would have made it genuinely outlandish and funnier.
Screen Rant called the mockumentary “horribly misguided” and suggested it reflects Charli’s fear of appearing “too cringe.” It added that the film fails as both a comedy and a character drama.
Screen International’s Screen Daily noted that Charli “showcases her acting talent,” but described the movie as “hit and miss.” The magazine said it struggles to balance satire with soul-searching plot elements.
The film’s soundtrack was created by Brat collaborator and co-producer AG Cook. Other appearances include comedian Rachel Sennott, actor Jamie Demetriou, and French singer-actress Arielle Dombasle.
Charli XCX has previously acted in films such as Pete Ohs’ Erupcja and Julia Jackman’s 100 Nights of Hero.
The Moment will be released in the US on January 30. Audiences in the UK and Ireland can watch it in cinemas from February 20.
