Charli XCX is set to appear in a new horror film directed by Martin Scorsese. The film, titled What Happens at Night, is based on a gothic novel by Peter Cameron. Source: rollingstone.com.
What Happens at Night: A Gothic Horror Story
The film follows a married American couple who travel to a remote European town hoping to adopt a child. As they navigate the process, they encounter a series of unusual and unsettling hotel guests.
The story explores themes of adoption, isolation, and psychological unease. It blends elements of gothic fiction with modern anxieties about family and identity.
Charli XCX’s Role in the Film
According to Variety, Charli XCX will make a cameo appearance in the film. She will appear alongside major Hollywood stars including Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence.
While the film’s full cast and plot remain largely unconfirmed, sources indicate that Mads Mikkelsen, Patricia Clarkson, and Jared Harris are also part of the cast.
Previous Collaboration with Martin Scorsese
In an exclusive interview with Rolling Stone, John Cale — a music icon and collaborator — recalled how the idea began. He said Charli had a concept for a video that would explore ‘an imprint of time and place.’
He described how the project unfolded: ‘There was talk of a video, an ode to an imprint of time and place. Next thing, I was on a flight. Ended up in a random kitchen.’
This collaboration reflects a shared interest in visual storytelling and the emotional resonance of place and memory.
Responses and Availability
Representatives for Charli XCX, Martin Scorsese, Apple, and StudioCanal did not respond to Rolling Stone’s requests for comment.
As of now, no official release date or premiere details have been announced for the film.
Why This Development Matters
The pairing of Charli XCX with Martin Scorsese marks a rare intersection of pop music and cinematic artistry. It highlights how music and film continue to influence each other across genres.
It also underscores the growing trend of pop artists participating in high-profile film projects, expanding their creative reach beyond music.
The film’s gothic tone and psychological depth suggest a serious artistic direction, distinct from mainstream entertainment.
Limitations and Open Questions
There is limited public information about the film’s narrative or production details. The cameo role is not described in depth, nor is the nature of Charli’s involvement.
Official statements from the filmmakers or studios have not been released. The project remains in early development stages.
While the casting of DiCaprio and Lawrence adds visibility, the film’s reception and critical response remain unknown.
There is no confirmation that the film will be released on any major platform or streaming service.
For fans of Charli XCX, this is a notable expansion of her creative portfolio. For film enthusiasts, it offers a glimpse into Scorsese’s evolving vision in genre cinema.
More details are expected as the project moves forward. The film may be released through StudioCanal, which is one of the production partners.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 04: Charli xcx attends the 2026 Met Gala celebrating "Costume Art" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 04, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images). Via original publisher. Image source
