Charli XCX lands a major role in Gregg Araki’s first feature film in over a decade, alongside Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, in a provocative new project.

Charli XCX is making waves on the big screen once again, this time as part of the cast of the highly anticipated film I Want Your Sex. Directed by the acclaimed Gregg Araki, this marks Araki’s first foray into feature filmmaking since his 2014 release White Bird in a Blizzard.

The pop sensation, known for her dynamic presence in the music industry, joins a distinguished lineup including Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman. While details about Charli’s specific role remain under wraps, the film’s synopsis promises a provocative and boundary-pushing narrative.

The plot centers around Elliot (Hoffman), a fresh-faced individual who lands a job with the renowned artist Erika Tracy (Wilde). Tracy, known for her provocative art and persona, casts Elliot as her sexual muse, thrusting him into a world of sex, obsession, and dark intrigue. As Elliot delves deeper, he finds himself engulfed in a tumultuous journey filled with power struggles, betrayal, and murder. The film is described as featuring outrageous characters and a playful sense of humor, with an aim to both shock and delights its audience.

Production for I Want Your Sex is set to commence in October, adding to the excitement surrounding Araki’s return to directing after a significant hiatus. The film represents a bold new chapter in Araki’s career, known for his previous works like Mysterious Skin and The Doom Generation.

For Charli XCX, this role marks her second film appearance following her participation in the upcoming remake of the 1978 horror classic Faces of Death. Filming for Faces of Death wrapped earlier this year, though its release date remains unannounced. This will be Charli’s first on-screen role, complementing her previous voice acting credits in The Angry Birds Movie (2016) and UglyDolls (2019).

The news of Charli XCX’s casting comes amid her busy schedule, which includes working on new music projects. Recently, she discussed her viral social media post and her ongoing work in the studio with notable artists like Bon Iver and Danielle Haim. Charli hinted at a new full-length project, though she remained coy about its nature, suggesting it might be a remix album or something entirely new.

Charli’s foray into film and her continued success in the music industry underscore her versatility as an artist and her growing influence in entertainment. With I Want Your Sex set to challenge conventions and spark conversations, Charli XCX’s role will undoubtedly add a compelling dimension to the film.

Analysis:

Political:

The casting of Charli XCX and the provocative nature of I Want Your Sex reflect broader trends in contemporary cinema that challenge societal norms and explore complex themes. Gregg Araki’s choice to address issues of sex, power, and betrayal in a film that also includes a high-profile pop star can be seen as part of a larger movement to engage with political and social topics through entertainment. The film’s bold narrative may spark discussions about the intersection of art, politics, and societal values, resonating with current debates about the role of media in shaping cultural and political conversations.

Social:

Charli XCX’s role in I Want Your Sex highlights a significant shift in how pop stars are integrated into mainstream cinema. This casting choice reflects the blending of music and film industries, where musicians bring their own following and energy to new projects. The film’s exploration of themes like obsession and power dynamics taps into current societal conversations about boundaries, consent, and the complexities of modern relationships. The film’s synopsis suggests a playful yet provocative approach, which could mirror or challenge societal attitudes towards sex and personal freedom.

Racial:

Although the film’s content does not directly address racial issues, the casting of Charli XCX—a British pop star of diverse cultural influences—alongside American actors like Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman might subtly contribute to the ongoing conversation about representation in film. By integrating an international pop star into a high-profile film project, the industry acknowledges and capitalizes on diverse cultural influences, which could impact discussions about racial and cultural representation in Hollywood.

Gender:

Charli XCX’s role in I Want Your Sex alongside Olivia Wilde, a prominent actress and director, underscores the increasing visibility of women in prominent roles within the film industry. The film’s focus on themes of sex and power dynamics can offer nuanced perspectives on gender relations and female empowerment. As a pop star transitioning into acting, Charli XCX’s involvement in such a provocative film also highlights the evolving roles of women in entertainment, where they are not only participants but also central figures in challenging traditional gender narratives.

Economical:

The casting of Charli XCX and the involvement of a well-known director like Gregg Araki in I Want Your Sex are likely to attract significant attention and potentially boost the film’s financial prospects. The intersection of pop culture with cinema often results in heightened media coverage and audience interest, which can drive box office success. For Charli XCX, her role in this film, combined with her musical endeavours, reflects her expanding influence and the economic potential of blending various forms of entertainment.