UPDATE: Charli XCX and Alexander Skarsgård’s highly anticipated film, The Moment, has debuted to disappointing reviews at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, with a low 55 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics are expressing concerns about the film’s execution and overall impact.
The mockumentary, directed by Aidan Zamiri, features Charli XCX portraying a fictionalized version of herself as she prepares for her upcoming tour. Despite the star power, early reviews indicate the film has failed to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Sean Boelman from FandomWire stated, “With the cast and talent behind The Moment, it really should be something special, but instead, it’s an unfunny, boring experience.” His remarks highlight the disappointment felt by many who expected more from this high-profile project.
James Preston Poole of DiscussingFilm echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the film’s structure. He remarked, “It lacks the conviction to sustain that format,” though he acknowledged Charli XCX’s strong screen presence, calling her “magnetic” despite the film’s shortcomings.
Mey Rude from OUT offered a vivid comparison, stating, “The Moment was a bit like my first time trying coke: Surrounded by well-dressed cool people, but also underwhelming and surprisingly lacking any real type of kick.” Rude noted that while the film showcases “hyperpop edits, flashing strobes, bright colors, and in-your-face attitude,” it ultimately feels “mostly forgettable.”
Critics have not held back, with Gregory Nussen from ScreenRant delivering one of the harshest critiques, labeling the film as “a shapeless, thoroughly uninteresting exercise in self-effacement.”
As of now, The Moment is likely to face an uphill battle as it approaches a wider release. Scheduled for North American distribution by A24 on January 30, 2026, audience feedback may shift the film’s reception in the coming weeks.
The current score on Rotten Tomatoes reflects the struggle for this film to capture the attention and admiration of its intended audience. As anticipation builds for its official release, industry watchers will be keen to see if the audience response aligns with critics’ reviews.
With the film’s future uncertain, all eyes are on The Moment as it prepares for its North American debut, and reactions from the public could drastically alter its trajectory.
