Watch Charli XCX: Alone Together

"Charli XCX: Alone Together" is an intimate documentary that delves into the life and creative process of the innovative British pop star, Charli XCX, during the unprecedented global pandemic of 2020. The film offers a raw and unfiltered look at the challenges and triumphs of creating art in isolation, as well as the complexity of human connection in a time of widespread disconnect.

The documentary follows Charli XCX, whose real name is Charlotte Emma Aitchison, as she embarks on a bold and ambitious project: to write, record, and release her fourth studio album, "how i'm feeling now," within the span of just five weeks. In a time when the world has come to an abrupt halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the artist sees an opportunity to engage with her fanbase in a manner that's deeply personal and collaborative, blending the lines between artist and audience.

As the cameras roll, we're introduced to Charli's inner circle, including her boyfriend, Huck Kwong, and close friend, Zaina Ali, who offer support and insight into the multifaceted singer's world. The documentary captures the emotional volatility and pressures of creating an album under lockdown conditions, with Charli XCX juggling the roles of musician, producer, and director while confined to her home.

The film provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the production of "how i'm feeling now," showcasing Charli's innovative approach to music-making. Despite the challenges of remote collaboration, she harnesses the power of the internet to involve fans in the process, turning to social media for real-time feedback and contributions on everything from lyrics to cover art. This pioneering approach to album creation not only breaks down traditional barriers in the music industry but also fosters a sense of community and shared experience.

"Charli XCX: Alone Together" highlights how Charli navigates the emotional rollercoaster brought on by isolation. With the film's vérité style, viewers witness Charli's vulnerability as she grapples with the impact of the pandemic on her mental health and the inherent uncertainties of the future. Moments of doubt, frustration, and elation are all captured candidly, providing a comprehensive and relatable portrait of an artist at work during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.

Throughout the documentary, the themes of connection and disconnection emerge. As they are forced apart physically due to the pandemic, Charli and her fans find ways to connect digitally. The film emphasizes the power of music to unite and heal, with Charli's relentless energy and creativity at the forefront. The constant exchange between Charli and her fans not only shapes the music but also demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of human interactions in the age of social distancing.

The documentary is also a testament to Charli XCX's dedication and prowess as a musician. Her relentless pursuit of creative expression contrasts with the stark reality of the global crisis, serving as a reminder of the potential for art to flourish against all odds. As each track from the album comes together, audiences are treated to glimpses of the innovative soundscapes and emotive lyrics that have come to define her as an artist.

Visually, "Charli XCX: Alone Together" mirrors the mood of its subject matter. The aesthetic reflects the raw and DIY ethos of Charli's project. Shots of Charli at home in her makeshift studio are interspersed with snippets of fan interactions and the outside world, seen through windows and computer screens, reinforcing the sense of a world put on pause.

"Charli XCX: Alone Together" culminates as an ode to creativity, companionship, and the human spirit. It is a powerful reflection on the year that forced everyone to adapt and find new ways to express, communicate, and ultimately, remain together while apart. Through Charli XCX's unyielding spirit and innovative approach, the documentary captures a unique moment in time, providing inspiration and insight into the possibilities for artists and communities to thrive, even in the face of adversity.

By the end of the film, viewers are left with a deeper appreciation for the importance of connection and the arts as a source of comfort and unity. The documentary stands as a testament to the relentless nature of the human spirit and the role of artists like Charli XCX, who push boundaries and lead the way in reinventing how music can be created and experienced in the new normal.

Charli XCX: Alone Together is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2 and a MetaScore of 69.