Harsh Criticism For The Weeknd's "Hurry Up Tomorrow": A Feature-Length Ego Stroke?

David

3 min read

Post on May 17, 2025

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Harsh Criticism for The Weeknd's "Hurry Up Tomorrow": A Feature-Length Ego Stroke?

The Weeknd's highly anticipated HBO special, "Hurry Up Tomorrow," has arrived, but instead of critical acclaim, it's facing a wave of harsh criticism. While boasting stunning visuals and showcasing the artist's undeniable musical talent, many viewers and critics are questioning whether the project is ultimately a self-indulgent exercise in ego-stroking, rather than a genuine artistic achievement. The response highlights a growing debate about the line between artistic expression and self-promotion in the age of streaming and celebrity culture.

The special, a visually lavish spectacle featuring songs from The Weeknd's latest album, Dawn FM, blends musical performances with cinematic storytelling. However, the narrative, which sees The Weeknd as a solitary figure grappling with fame and identity, has been criticized for its perceived lack of depth and its overwhelming focus on the artist himself. Many reviewers feel the film prioritizes aesthetic grandeur over substantive meaning.

The Critics' Consensus: Style Over Substance?

Several prominent publications have voiced concerns about the special's self-congratulatory nature. One critic from Rolling Stone described it as "a visually impressive but ultimately hollow experience," emphasizing the disconnect between the film's stunning production design and its thin narrative. Others have echoed this sentiment, pointing out the lack of character development and a predictable plot that serves primarily as a vehicle for showcasing The Weeknd's musical catalog.

The criticism isn't entirely negative, though. Many acknowledge the undeniable talent and charisma The Weeknd brings to the screen, and the impressive technical achievements of the production are undeniable. The visual artistry, featuring striking cinematography and innovative lighting techniques, is frequently praised. The use of [specific visual techniques like neon lighting or slow-motion sequences, if applicable] further enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. However, the consensus seems to be that these positive aspects are ultimately overshadowed by the film's perceived self-absorption.

Is it Self-Promotion or Artistic Vision?

The central question arising from the criticism is whether "Hurry Up Tomorrow" is a calculated move in self-promotion or a genuine artistic endeavor. The line is undeniably blurred in today's media landscape where artists have unprecedented control over their image and narrative. While The Weeknd's creative control is admirable, the critics' concerns highlight the potential pitfalls of prioritizing personal branding over compelling storytelling. This debate speaks to a broader discussion about the evolving nature of music videos, concert films, and artist-driven content in the digital age.

The Future of Artist-Driven Content:

The mixed reception of "Hurry Up Tomorrow" presents a crucial challenge for artists seeking to create compelling visual narratives around their music. It underscores the need for a balance between artistic expression and audience engagement, a delicate tightrope walk that requires a compelling narrative to complement, rather than overshadow, the artist’s undeniable talent. Future projects of this kind will need to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the audience’s desire for narratives that resonate beyond the immediate gratification of visual spectacle.

What do you think? Is The Weeknd’s "Hurry Up Tomorrow" a masterpiece of visual artistry or a self-indulgent ego trip? Share your thoughts in the comments below!