Berlin – Pop star Charli xcx is drawing praise for her performance in the mockumentary “The Moment,” a film that explores the complexities of fame and artistic integrity. At the film’s press conference during the Berlin International Film Festival on Saturday, February 14, 2026, xcx joked that she approached the role with a dedication bordering on the extreme, stating she was “Method from the day I was born.” The film, which premiered at Sundance last month, is already making waves for its candid portrayal of the music industry and the pressures faced by artists.
“The Moment” presents an alternate-reality version of xcx as she navigates the challenges of maintaining artistic control while facing commercial demands. The narrative centers around a planned concert film documenting her “Brat” tour, complicated by the involvement of a manipulative director, played by Alexander Skarsgård. The film’s exploration of these themes has resonated with audiences, becoming A24’s fastest-selling limited release in history, with over 50 screenings selling out and attracting a predominantly under-35 demographic, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
xcx revealed that the film’s scenarios, while heightened for dramatic effect, were often rooted in her own experiences. “I’ve definitely arrive close” to some of the moments depicted, she said, adding that many of the characters were inspired by individuals she’s encountered throughout her career. She recounted a particularly relatable scene, admitting, “Have I had a breakdown in the back of a Viano while smoking a million cigarettes? Yes. So I definitely had a lot to draw on.”
The cast of “The Moment” also includes Rosanna Arquette, Kate Berlant, Jamie Demetriou, Hailey Benton Gates, Isaac Powell, Rish Shah, Kylie Jenner, and Rachel Sennott. The film was directed by Aidan Zamiri, who co-wrote the screenplay with Bertie Brandes, based on an original idea from xcx herself, as detailed on Wikipedia.
xcx also highlighted the importance of showcasing the film at the Berlinale, praising the festival’s commitment to politically and socially relevant cinema. “I’m only just starting out in this industry, but I experience passionate about working within those spaces,” she stated, according to Deadline. She applauded the festival for “not shying away from political films, from films that have a real social angle, films by directors who really are visionary and have something to say.”
The film also serves as a definitive statement on xcx’s “Brat” era. When asked if “The Moment” signaled the end of that chapter, xcx was unequivocal: “For me, it’s over and you can’t dread the end when it’s over.” She explained that the film’s narrative arc, in which her character actively dismantles the “Brat” persona, mirrored the creative team’s intention to provide a conclusive ending to the album campaign. “In the film, Charli decides to free herself of ‘Brat’ and kill ‘Brat.’ And I think we were aware that this film was probably the full stop at the end of an album campaign.”
“The Moment” is slated for release in Europe next week following its premiere at the Berlinale. The film’s success and xcx’s candid reflections on the role suggest a continued conversation about the pressures of fame and the artistic choices artists craft in a rapidly evolving industry.
What impact will “The Moment” have on the broader conversation surrounding artist autonomy and the commercialization of art? Only time will advise, but the film has already sparked significant discussion within the music industry and among fans. Share your thoughts in the comments below.