Abel Tesfaye And Trey Edward Shults' "Hurry Up Tomorrow": A Dissection Of Its Flaws

2 min read Post on May 16, 2025

Abel Tesfaye and Trey Edward Shults' "Hurry Up Tomorrow": A Dissection of its Flaws

The highly anticipated collaboration between renowned singer The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye) and acclaimed director Trey Edward Shults ("Waves," "It Comes at Night") on the short film "Hurry Up Tomorrow" has left many viewers feeling…underwhelmed. While boasting a visually striking aesthetic and the undeniable star power of Tesfaye, the film ultimately stumbles in its execution, failing to deliver on the promise of its intriguing premise. This article delves into the specific shortcomings that prevent "Hurry Up Tomorrow" from reaching its full potential.

A Visually Stunning Narrative, Lacking Substance

Shults' signature style is undeniably present: the close-ups, the unsettling atmosphere, the lingering shots that build tension. The cinematography is breathtaking, perfectly capturing the film's melancholic mood. However, this visual prowess masks a narrative that feels both underdeveloped and ultimately unsatisfying. The story, centered around a seemingly aimless Tesfaye navigating an ambiguous emotional landscape, lacks the depth and complexity needed to fully engage the viewer.

The Weeknd's Performance: A Mixed Bag

Tesfaye's performance is a double-edged sword. He conveys a certain vulnerability and quiet intensity that fits the film's somber tone. However, the lack of dialogue and the reliance on visual storytelling places a significant burden on his ability to convey emotion solely through facial expressions and body language. While he manages this at times, there are moments where the performance feels somewhat lacking, leaving the audience struggling to connect with his character's internal struggles.

Narrative Ambiguity: A Strength Turned Weakness

While ambiguity can be a powerful tool in filmmaking, "Hurry Up Tomorrow" pushes it to a point where it becomes a detriment. The lack of clear narrative direction and the cryptic symbolism leave the audience feeling lost and disconnected. The film hints at deeper themes of isolation, existential dread, and perhaps even mental health struggles, but these themes remain largely unexplored, resulting in a frustratingly incomplete experience. Instead of provoking thought, the ambiguity feels more like a lack of substance.

Technical Prowess vs. Narrative Cohesion

The film’s technical aspects – the cinematography, the sound design, and the editing – are undeniably impressive. However, these elements, while individually strong, don’t coalesce into a cohesive and satisfying whole. The masterful visuals feel somewhat disconnected from the narrative, creating a sense of dissonance that undermines the overall impact of the film.

Conclusion: Potential Unfulfilled

"Hurry Up Tomorrow" showcases the undeniable talent of both Tesfaye and Shults. The collaboration is ambitious, and certain aspects, particularly the visual style, are undeniably successful. However, the film's shortcomings in narrative development and character exploration ultimately prevent it from achieving its full potential. The result is a visually arresting but ultimately unsatisfying experience, leaving viewers wanting more than just a beautifully shot, albeit emotionally vacant, short film. What are your thoughts on "Hurry Up Tomorrow"? Share your opinions in the comments below! Let's continue the conversation.