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Charli XCX’s ‘Erupcja’ Role Nearly Went to Clairo: Inside the Indie Film Journey

Valeriy Bagrintsev Valeriy Bagrintsev
5 minute read

Charli XCX’s ‘Erupcja’ Role Nearly Went to Clairo: Inside the Indie Film Journey

Explore how Charli XCX’s role in the indie film Erupcja almost landed with Clairo and what makes this project so captivating.

Captivating Beginnings: Charli XCX’s Indie Film Adventure

If you’re a Charli XCX fan, you know she’s never just about chart-topping bangers—she dives headfirst into creative projects that pull you into her vibrant world. Recently, she revealed a fascinating tidbit: Clairo was nearly cast in Charli’s role for her upcoming indie film, Erupcja. That almost-casting twist adds a fresh layer of intrigue to this already compelling project.

Charli XCX live at Glastonbury 2025, photo by Derek Bremner

The Secret Warsaw Shoot During ‘Brat’ Summer

Back in October, whispers started swirling about Charli secretly filming a movie in Warsaw during the height of what fans lovingly dubbed the “Brat” summer. It was a surprise move for the “360” singer, who’s usually spotlighted on music stages rather than movie sets. The film’s title, Erupcja, captivates with its meaning “eruption” in Polish—perfect for a story about explosive emotions and relationships.

The Story Behind Erupcja: A Tale of Two Women

Directed by Pete Ohs, Erupcja explores the fiery, complex relationship between two women: a local Polish citizen played by Lena Góra and a tourist, portrayed by Charli XCX herself. The film balances raw emotional tension with the spontaneous energy of indie filmmaking.

How a Chance Meeting Sparked Creativity

The making of Erupcja came to life through a serendipitous encounter. Charli and director Pete Ohs met in a New York bar called Clandestino in May 2024, thanks to a mutual friend, Said Harris. From that night on, their collaboration began to blossom.

Watch the Official Trailer for Erupcja

The Improvised Art of Filmmaking

Pete Ohs described the film’s production as an improvisational journey, especially in developing Charli’s character, Bethany. “Okay, we have a character named Bethany who’s shy—what is she doing in Warsaw?” he mused. “That’s the fun of making movies this way—asking questions and discovering the story as we go.”

Charli chimed in with a revealing anecdote about how Clairo’s name came up during character development. “We talked a lot about the singer Clairo in comparison with Bethany. Pete said, ‘I really like Clairo,’ and we kept bringing her into the mix when thinking about who Bethany was,” Charli said. It’s funny, she noted, because musically they’re quite different, but the inspiration stuck.

Clairo Almost Wore the Role

Though Clairo was a strong contender during the early stages, Pete Ohs soon knew Charli XCX was the perfect fit. They began filming just three months after their meeting, capturing the authenticity and charm only Charli could bring.

Fame Meets Secrecy: Keeping the Film Under Wraps

Despite efforts to keep the project hush-hush, Charli’s fame made total secrecy impossible. Ohs admitted she was recognized multiple times while filming in Poland. “She was always really sweet and took selfies with many Polish fans,” he recalled fondly.

Another Glimpse of Charli's Charisma

For a lighter peek into Charli’s magnetic presence, here’s a fun video of her exploring Brighton’s Aquarium:

Premiere and Future Projects

Erupcja is set for its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 4, 2025. While a general release date remains unannounced, anticipation is already building.

Charli’s cinematic journey doesn’t stop there. She’s also starring in 100 Nights Of Hero, a film adaptation of Isabel Greenberg’s graphic novel, premiering at the Venice International Film Festival on September 6, followed by a US release on December 5. UK fans, keep your fingers crossed for a soon-to-be-announced date. Plus, she’s teaming up with Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Evans in the adventure-comedy Sacrifice.

Charli’s Love for Film Beyond Acting

Charli isn’t just acting; she’s a genuine cinephile. She regularly shares film recommendations on TikTok, leaves thoughtful reviews on Letterboxd, and even pitched a fresh take on the Final Destination franchise—a version starring only “It Girls,” where only the most stylish get whacked off in classic horror style.

Recently, she shared a sneak peek from her upcoming mockumentary, The Moment, keeping fans hooked for more.

Wrapping Up the Eruption of Creativity

From secret film shoots in Warsaw to nearly casting Clairo in her role, Charli XCX continues to surprise and delight us with her multifaceted talents. Erupcja promises to be a raw, emotional journey, blending music, film, and indie spirit into something truly special.

FAQ

  • What is the film Erupcja about?
    It follows the passionate and volatile relationship between two women—a local Polish citizen and a tourist—in Warsaw.
  • Who was almost cast in Charli XCX’s role?
    The singer and musician Clairo was seriously considered before Charli took on the role.
  • Where and when was Erupcja filmed?
    The movie was secretly filmed in Warsaw, Poland, during the summer of 2024.
  • When is the world premiere for Erupcja?
    The film premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 4, 2025.
  • What other film projects is Charli XCX involved in?
    She stars in 100 Nights Of Hero, premiering in Venice, and Sacrifice, alongside Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Evans.

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