Introduction to Charli XCX’s Acting Career
The brat singer isn’t the first pop star to turn to big screen acting, but she has made an "auspicious start" that demonstrates a "commitment to cinema". While fans of her music were excited about her album that became a cultural meme and cheered her five wins at the Brit Awards in March, Charli XCX quietly built a career as a film actress.
Early Roles and Film Festivals
She has already shot roles in seven features, and three of them are ending up at film festivals this autumn. Charli XCX has small roles in two large ensemble pieces: "A Hundred Nights of the Hero", a gay romance with Emma Corrin, which is being shown at the Venice Film Festival, and "Victims", a satire with eco-topics with Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Evans, which will have its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival.
Breakout Role in Erupcja
But the most remarkable film for her is "Erupcja", which has just been premiered in Toronto. Here, she plays the main character, and her choice of roles is meaningful. "Erupcja" is neither mainstream nor musical, but a small, artistic film that signals a serious commitment to the cinema. Charli plays Bethany, who is on vacation in Warsaw with her boyfriend Rob and has a secret plan. She wants to reunite with Nel, an old friend and possibly loved one, before deciding whether to marry Rob.
Creative Risks and Unique Filmmaking
It is the creative risk, not every musician or actor would take. The film’s director, Pete Ohs, uses a production process that he describes as the "table of bubbles" and creates films from almost nothing as ideas and cooperation. He starts with an outline, tries out with actors who contribute to their characters’ lines, and shoots only for two weeks. This fast turnaround makes it easier to fit into the full schedule of a pop star, but it is also a creative risk.
Comparison to Other Musicians Turned Actors
Of course, it is not unusual that musicians turn to acting. Lady Gaga caused a sensation for her role in "A Star" in 2018 and won her non-musical role in "House of Gucci" in 2021. A$AP Rocky is dynamic in Spike Lee’s current film "Higest 2 Low". What characterizes Charli’s trajectory are her fascinating decisions. All three of her festival titles are independent films and quirky.
Conclusion
Charli XCX’s acting career is off to a great start, with a range of unique and creative roles that demonstrate her commitment to cinema. With her breakout role in "Erupcja" and her upcoming films, she is proving to be a talented and daring actress who is not afraid to take risks. As she continues to build her career, it will be exciting to see what other projects she takes on and how she navigates the world of film.
