Hurry Up Tomorrow critique notes missed opportunities

The Weeknd stars in a psychological thriller that critiques fame but misses deeper insights.

Hurry Up Tomorrow falters under the weight of fame

Abel Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd, stars in Hurry Up Tomorrow, directed by Trey Edward Shults. The film is based on a previous crisis in his career, specifically a moment when he lost his voice during a concert. This pivotal event leads to a portrayal of a fractured mind caught between fame and personal demons. The film intertwines two stories, featuring a troubled fan played by Jenna Ortega. While stylishly shot, the film struggles to develop its characters, leaving important themes of fame and obsession mostly unexplored until the very end.

Hurry Up Tomorrow aims to explore the darker sides of celebrity culture through a narrative that intertwines the life of The Weeknd with a fan's obsession. However, it often feels superficial, failing to delve into the complex emotional landscapes of its characters. This especially resonates in the performance of The Weeknd, who seems more comfortable on screen than in capturing the essence of the story's deeper themes. The film leaves viewers wanting a more profound commentary on fame, limiting its intended critique to surface-level observations.

Highlights

Hurry Up Tomorrow highlights the dangers of remaining trapped in one's own myth.