Charli XCX’s ‘The Moment’ Captures the Electric, and Fleeting, Essence of ‘Brat Summer’

Pop culture moments don’t last forever, and Charli XCX’s critically acclaimed album Brat, released in the summer of 2024, is a prime example. The album’s branding, unique neon-green aesthetic, and club sound have inspired artists across genres, but the era surrounding it is now drawing to a close.

From Album to A24: The ‘Brat’ Universe Expands

The impact of Brat extends beyond music. In January 2025, XCX announced her starring role in the mockumentary film The Moment, directed by Aidan Zamiri. The film premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival under the A24 studio and opened in theaters nationwide on February 8, becoming A24’s fastest-selling limited release, according to Variety.

A.G. Cook, a key producer on Brat, also contributed to the film’s soundtrack. Three singles were released from the soundtrack: “Dread” on December 12, 2025, “Offscreen” on January 15, and “Residue” on January 27, accompanied by a surprise music video featuring XCX and Kylie Jenner.

A Mockumentary Exploring Fame and Identity

The cast of The Moment includes Alexander Skarsgard, Issac Cole Powell, and cameos from Jenner and Rachel Sennott. Longtime collaborators and friends of XCX, such as Cook and Shygirl, also appear in the film. While described as a mockumentary, The Moment delves into the complexities and darker side of fame, presenting an insecure and uncertain version of XCX navigating the pressures of the music industry.

The film is a period piece, recreating the excitement and fervor surrounding the Brat album in 2024, but with a twist. Zamiri’s direction, combined with harsh strobe lights, a distinctive color palette, and graphics, prompts the question: Is ‘Brat Summer’ truly over?

Cinematography and Aesthetic Details

The vlog-style cinematography, by Sean Price Williams, creates an intimate and authentic feel, sometimes resembling paparazzi footage or a personal video diary. The film’s aesthetic builds upon the simplicity of the ‘Brat’ album’s design, incorporating dark blues, reds, and yellows alongside the signature neon green.

Clever brand placements are also integrated, featuring brands like StarFace and Aerol Spritz. XCX is shown wearing StarFace patches and ordering an Aerol Spritz in one scene.

A Casual Setting and Powerful Performance

The film’s writing style creates a casual setting, complementing the mockumentary sequences. The audience follows XCX through events, conversations, and moments as she prepares for her arena tour. XCX’s acting is praised for its authenticity, particularly her portrayal of vulnerability and emotional depth.

The film’s score effectively captures the tense and uncomfortable moments, shifting between fast-paced club beats and softer electronic echoes. Songs from the Brat album are also incorporated, blending seamlessly with the original score.

The End of an Era

The Moment encapsulates the essence of ‘Brat Summer’ and the album’s cultural impact. As XCX herself stated on X, “You can’t dread the end when it’s already over.”

As with all significant cultural moments, the ‘Brat’ era has come to an end, leaving behind a legacy for fans and critics to remember.