Anticipation builds as Charli XCX ventures into filmmaking with her ambitious mockumentary “The Moment,” scheduled for release in 2026 through the prestigious independent studio A24.
The comedy-drama marks the inaugural project from the pop star’s production company Studio365, signaling her expansion beyond music into narrative filmmaking with a deeply personal exploration of the music industry‘s inner workings.
The film centers on a rising pop star preparing for an arena tour while confronting the harsh realities of fame, with Charli XCX herself taking the lead role in what appears to be a meta-fictional portrayal mirroring aspects of her own career trajectory. The star has explicitly stated that this is not a tour documentary but a “2024 period piece” offering a fictional narrative with realistic industry depictions.
First-time director Aidan Zamiri, a Glaswegian photographer who previously collaborated with Charli on music videos including “360” and “Guess,” brings his visual sensibility to the project alongside co-writer Bertie Brandes, known for contributions to prominent culture publications.
Production quality promises to be exceptional with A.G. Cook, Charli’s longtime producer and collaborator to artists like Beyoncé, creating an original score that will likely complement the narrative’s emotional landscape. The film will likely address the challenges of music promotion in today’s streaming-dominated landscape where artists must constantly engage fans across multiple platforms. The storyline is expected to touch on the importance of diverse income streams for musicians trying to sustain their careers in an industry where streaming royalties alone rarely provide sufficient revenue. Principal photography for the film began in March 2025 in London, setting the stage for its distinctive visual aesthetic.
The combination of Cook’s avant-garde pop sensibilities with Zamiri’s photographic eye suggests a distinctive audiovisual experience that pushes beyond conventional music documentaries.
“The Moment” aims to strip away glamorous illusions of pop stardom, instead offering viewers an unflinching look at industry pressures, mental health challenges, and the precarious balance between artistic integrity and commercial demands.
By casting herself in a character paralleling her real-life experiences, Charli creates a unique tension between fiction and reality that promises to resonate with audiences familiar with her public persona.
The film’s mockumentary approach allows for both comedy and candid critique, potentially making “The Moment” a significant cultural commentary on contemporary fame.
As production continues toward its 2026 release, industry observers anticipate a rare glimpse behind the carefully constructed façade of pop music through Charli XCX’s characteristically bold and uncompromising lens.
