Director Julia Jackman Discusses Casting Charli XCX in Her First Film Role in '100 Nights of Hero'

Director Julia Jackman talks about casting Charli XCX in her acting debut

Director Julia Jackman recently opened up about her bold move in casting none other than Charli XCX, a global sensation in her own right, who's diving headfirst from music charts straight onto our movie screens. Charli's debut in a major acting role in *100 Nights Of Hero* marks an exciting new chapter in her already unstoppable career.

You might know Charli XCX from hits like "Boom Clap" or "After The Afterparty," but she dipped her toes in acting before by hilariously playing herself in Prime Video's LGBTQ+ comedy *Overcompensating*. With more acting gigs lined up, Jackman couldn't be more thrilled about kicking off Charli's cinematic journey with this particular film.

Charli XCX's role in a star-studded lineup

In *100 Nights Of Hero*, Charli steps in as "Rosa," a captivating fairy-tale character bringing her own magic touch. She shares screen space with Nicholas Galitzine, who shone in *Mary & George*, and Emma Corr in, who wowed us all in *The Crown*. This film spins a fresh tale from Isabel Greenberg's graphic novel, which itself finds roots in *One Thousand and One Nights*.

The story dives deep, entangling Manfred (Galitzine), Hero (Corr), and Cherry, played by none other than Maika Monroe from *It Follows*, in a queer love triangle. The newly dropped trailer teases a surreal and mesmerizing tale, where a neglected husband, his innocent bride Cherry, and their devoted maid Hero face disruption by a beguiling guest.

In this enchanting setting, Charli XCX lends her musical magic, enriching a dream-like sequence with her instrumentals. While Rosa doesn't take center stage, her role fits perfectly with Charli's "Vroom Vroom" vibe.

The unexpected path that led Charli XCX onto this cast

Julia Jackman shared how a surprising turn led Charli XCX onto this project. "It was a bit serendipitous when someone floated her name," Jackman recounted, reminiscing about their post-Glastonbury 2024 meeting, fresh off Charli's electrifying performance and her album *Bratm* capturing global attention.

Jackman was taken aback by Charli's genuine enthusiasm and readiness, showing up with an iPad filled with notes, eager and down-to-earth. Charli's mix Adopho's dry humor, bashfulness, and unassuming charm made her a natural fit as Rosa.

Charli XCX's blossoming film career

Since *100 Nights Of Hero*, Charli XCX's acting career has really taken off. She'll star in *Erupcja* alongside Jeremy O. Harris and join Anya Taylor-Joy, Salma Hayek, and Chris Evans in an action-comedy, *Sacrifice*. Plus, she has roles lined up in *Faces Of Death* with Barbie Ferreira, *I Want Your Sex* with Olivia Wilde, *The Gallerist* with Natalie Portman and Jenna Ortega, and *The Moment* with Alexander Skarsgård, which she's also co-producing.

Festivals and what lies ahead

*100 Nights Of Hero* makes its grand debut at Venice Film Festival on September 5 and wraps up London's Film Festival on October 19. Its showcase at these top festivals speaks volumes about its expected impact.

Beautifully shot and emotionally stirring, this film delves deep, exploring love, loyalty, and complex human connections—all within a magical, folklore-steeped context.

As Charli XCX steps onto this exciting new stage, fans and critics are buzzing with anticipation over her big-screen transition. Her work in *100 Nights Of Hero* showcases her range, highlighting her boldness in forging new creative trails.

What do you think about Charli XCX's leap from music starleton starlet? Share your thoughts in our comments. Remember, let's keep it civil and inclusive!