Charli XCX has taken center stage at the Sundance Film Festival, showcasing her talents in three films, with the standout being “The Moment.” This A24 mockumentary approaches the concept of the end of the influential era known as Brat Summer, a period that symbolized Charli’s meteoric rise to stardom following her sixth album in 2024. As she introduced the film at the Eccles Theater, nestled in a winter wonderland, she emphasized that the narrative revolves around the conclusion of an impactful chapter in her career.
The energy at Sundance reflected the enduring presence of Brat Summer, as fans gathered outside the Eccles for a chance to see the pop sensation. Inside, the audience was adorned with the bright slime-green hues that characterized the era, a clear reminder of Charli’s explosive success during that pivotal summer. As the festival unfolds, Charli emerges not just as an artist, but as a potential mascot for Sundance 2026, featuring in three major premieres, including “I Want Your Sex,” a provocative S&M comedy by esteemed filmmaker Gregg Araki, and “The Gallerist,” a satirical take on the art world by Cathy Yan.
While her roles in “I Want Your Sex” and “The Gallerist” may appear limited, they showcase Charli’s willingness to embrace quirky personas that playfully subvert her established image. However, it is “The Moment” that offers a deeper exploration of her artistic identity through a fictional lens, depicting the pressures and absurdities of fame. Set in the aftermath of Brat Summer, the film illustrates Charli navigating the complexities of her rising celebrity status, including challenges posed by industry expectations, promotional antics, and the struggle to maintain her creative vision.
Director Aidan Zamiri crafts a narrative that balances humor with a reflective undertone, echoing the conflicts that often accompany fame. The comedy presents Charli as a caricature of a troubled diva, yet it simultaneously highlights her authenticity and self-awareness as she parodies the very tropes she’s been associated with. The film culminates in a poignant closing that hints at Charli’s acceptance of change and the fleeting nature of her past success, ultimately suggesting a readiness for reinvention.
Charli’s presence at the festival was underscored by candid moments during audience interactions, where she acknowledged some of the awkwardness that comes with promotion. As Brat Summer comes to a close, she seems poised to explore what lies ahead, ready to embrace new transformations while leaving behind the era that launched her into stardom. In a business where the fleeting moment of fame can feel relentless, Charli’s journey reflects a blend of resilience and humor, assuring fans that while one season may be ending, her next chapter is just beginning.