The Moment: Film Review (2026)

This is not a documentary, but a mockumentary. Charli XCX’s The Moment is witty, sarcastic, raw, and a whole new take on the usual tour documentary that most artists do. Within the film we get a glimpse into the world of artistry and how it can feel to be in the shoes of a performer going against the grain. Brat was a global sensation and without a doubt created shockwaves throughout music, but now Charli questions whether brat is still “brat” or if it has gone stale.

The Moment begins at the end of summer 2024 when brat was at its peak of success. Due to the rising volume in fans and achievement from the album, Charli XCX is approached by film executives working for renowned director Johannes Godwin to create a documentary of her upcoming tour. In Charli’s view, Johannes is weird and like “super cringe”, which prompts her to despise the idea and refuse to work with him.

Though Charli is insistent on not working with Johannes, executives give him the go, which creates an uncomfortable atmosphere during tour rehearsals for Charli and her creative director Celeste. The mood during these scenes is awkward and stiff, which creates many amusing moments that are consistent throughout the film.

Due to the stress of rehearsals and conflicting ideas, Charli goes on vacation in Ibiza to relax all the while her tour is less than two weeks away. Her vacation is everything but and reveals the emotional turmoil Charli has been going through which causes her to crash out, give up, and give all creative direction to Johannes. This creates a rift between Charli and Celeste and prompts Celeste to leave the team.

Since Johannes’ direction has taken over, everything about brat and the tour becomes as we expected which is ugly, cringe, and so the opposite of brat. We see how he has taken brat and made it everything Charli is not. The film ends with a spoof trailer for the brat documentary, and pokes fun at the ways many tour films can be cheesy for the sake of broader audiences and a family friendly vibe.

The Moment gives a real look into the way many artists become monetized and are forced into certain deals or branding for the sake of making a quick buck. It criticises those artists who lean into the cash grabs and who aren’t being authentic with their work. She obviously alludes to certain artists who release anything and everything for money, while their fans are mindlessly swiping their cards to show their support.

The Moment is a must-see film and is entertaining to say the least. This was a great mockumentary for fans and those alike. It may be the end of an era for brat, but it is just the beginning for Charli XCX.