Film Review: "Hurry Up Tomorrow" – A Musical Journey that Stumbles
"Hurry Up Tomorrow" ventures into the intricate realms of obsession, despair, and unprocessed grief, aiming to craft a thought-provoking narrative. Unfortunately, it falls short of this ambition, ultimately devolving into what feels like a meandering vanity project.
A Musical Autobiography with a Twist
Abel Tesfaye, famously known as The Weeknd, steps into the limelight as both lead actor and co-writer, alongside director Trey Edward Shults. The film tracks Abel’s tumultuous journey during a world tour, deeply impacted by the aftermath of a devastating breakup. Plagued by insomnia and haunted by nightmarish hallucinations, he must confront a mysterious stranger portrayed by Jenna Ortega, who threatens to unravel both his career and psyche.
This venture serves as a companion piece to The Weeknd’s latest album, weaving a fictional narrative inspired by Tesfaye’s struggles with fame.
An Engaging Concept that Misses the Mark
While the film’s unique premise is compelling, it quickly becomes apparent that its primary objective is to serve as a showcase for The Weeknd’s music—a luxurious marketing ploy rather than a cinematic masterpiece. The visuals and sound design shine, creating a hypnotic, dreamlike experience that immerses the audience in the protagonist’s existential crisis. Yet, this stylistic prowess often leads to comparisons with an extended music video, leaving viewers craving depth and substance.
Performance Review: A Talent to be Desired
Abel Tesfaye plays a fictionalized version of himself, but the performance leaves much to be desired. His screen presence is awkward, leading many to wonder if he would be better off sticking to music and leaving the acting to professionals. The supporting cast, though functional, fails to elevate the film.
Barry Keoghan, who plays Lee, Tesfaye’s manager, delivers a performance that is competent but lacks the transformative quality that memorable roles require.
- Jenna Ortega’s character, shrouded in mystery, is underutilized until the final act. While her performance is solid, it ultimately does not linger in the audience’s memory.
The Struggles of a Unique Premise
Despite its intriguing concept, the film struggles to maintain focus. Viewers may find themselves disoriented, longing for an identifiable plot or direction. The film’s ambition to unravel the complexities of fame and the weight of personal struggles fizzles out after an hour, leaving too many questions unanswered.
While fans of The Weeknd may find enjoyment in "Hurry Up Tomorrow,” others may leave the theater scratching their heads, pondering what could have been.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity
In a landscape where music and film increasingly intersect, "Hurry Up Tomorrow" could have been a bold statement on the complexities of fame and grief. Instead, it succumbs to its own hype and ambition, serving as a reminder that not every artist should transition from music to film. Perhaps it’s time for Tesfaye to consider focusing solely on his musical talents—after all, the world adores his artistry in sound more than in sight.
For more on the intersection of music and film, check out sources like Rolling Stone or Billboard.
