Charli XCX's first foray into acting, the film 'Erupcja' (Eruption), has received mixed reviews following its screening at the Toronto International Film Festival. The 71-minute project, directed by Pete Ohs, was filmed over a few weeks in Warsaw, Poland, in August 2024, during the height of 'Brat summer'. The pop star, born Charlotte Aitchison, plays Bethany, a Londoner visiting Warsaw with her boyfriend Rob (Will Madden).
Critics note that Charli, who has seven films in development, fails to make a strong impression in the role. Her performance is described as extending her pop persona rather than showcasing range, with the actor often filmed from behind or out of focus. The film's title refers to a volcano that supposedly erupts whenever Bethany reconnects with her teenage friend Nel (Lena Góra), but the narrative is marked by restrained emotions and icy silences.
The Guardian's review calls the film 'slight and unpolished', comparing it to a demo or proof of concept. It notes that the central friendship between Bethany and Nel lacks expression, with their past agony and ecstasy implied through narration rather than acting. The dialogue is heavy on logistics, and the film's casual style fades into 'mildly irksome shallowness'.
Despite these criticisms, the film is seen as a safe trial run for Charli's acting career. Director Pete Ohs is an unconventional independent filmmaker, and the project was written collaboratively as it was shot chronologically. The film also features Polish cultural consultant Zofia Chlebowska and producer Jeremy O'Harris as an expat artist.
'Erupcja' is currently screening at the Toronto film festival and has no confirmed UK release date. Charli XCX is expected to continue balancing music and acting, with multiple film projects in development.
