"Hurry Up Tomorrow": Film Critics Call The Weeknd's Latest A Self-Indulgent Flop

David

3 min read

Post on May 17, 2025

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Hurry Up Tomorrow: Film Critics Call The Weeknd's Latest a Self-Indulgent Flop

The Weeknd's highly anticipated directorial debut, "Hurry Up Tomorrow," has landed with a resounding thud, at least according to a chorus of film critics. Instead of the cinematic triumph many predicted, the film is being widely panned as a self-indulgent mess, leaving audiences and critics alike questioning the singer's foray into filmmaking. The initial hype surrounding the project, fueled by The Weeknd's massive global fanbase and the promise of a visually stunning experience, now feels like a cruel irony.

A Visual Spectacle, a Narrative Disaster?

Many reviewers praise the film's visual aesthetic. The cinematography, described by Variety as "visually arresting," certainly delivers. Stunning visuals and a strong attention to detail are undeniable aspects of "Hurry Up Tomorrow," showcasing a clear artistic vision. However, this visual splendor seemingly overshadows a deeply flawed narrative. The plot, a meandering exploration of identity and isolation, is criticized for its lack of coherence and pacing. Critics argue that the film prioritizes style over substance, resulting in a visually impressive but ultimately unsatisfying viewing experience.

The Weeknd's Performance: A Case of Too Much, Too Soon?

The Weeknd's performance, while not universally condemned, is also a point of contention. Some argue his screen presence lacks the depth needed to carry the film's weight, while others note a certain charisma that shines through despite the narrative's failings. However, the general consensus points towards a performance hampered by the script's inadequacies rather than a lack of talent from the singer-turned-actor. The critics suggest that perhaps this ambitious project came too early in his acting career.

Critics' Consensus: A Missed Opportunity

The overwhelmingly negative reviews highlight a common theme: a disconnect between artistic ambition and execution. While the film boasts undeniable technical prowess, the lackluster storytelling and uneven character development leave much to be desired. Publications such as The Hollywood Reporter and IndieWire have used scathing terms like "pretentious" and "self-indulgent" to describe the film. The criticism isn't solely focused on the plot; the pacing is also frequently cited as a major flaw, leaving audiences feeling unengaged and frustrated.

Beyond the Negative Reviews: A Glimpse of Potential?

Despite the overwhelmingly negative reception, some critics have pointed out glimmers of potential in "Hurry Up Tomorrow." The film's bold visual style and certain poignant moments suggest that with a more focused narrative and refined storytelling techniques, The Weeknd could potentially excel in filmmaking. This raises questions about the collaboration between The Weeknd and his creative team. Was the creative vision too ambitious for a debut project?

The Verdict:

"Hurry Up Tomorrow" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing style over substance. While visually stunning in parts, the film ultimately falls flat due to its weak narrative, uneven pacing, and under-developed characters. Whether The Weeknd will return to the director's chair remains to be seen, but this debut certainly provides a valuable – albeit harsh – learning experience. For now, it seems the critical consensus is clear: "Hurry Up Tomorrow" is a missed opportunity. What are your thoughts? Share your opinions in the comments below!