"Hurry Up Tomorrow": Trey Edward Shults' Musical Drama Falls Flat

David

3 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

4.2

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"Hurry Up Tomorrow": Trey Edward Shults' Musical Drama Falls Flat

Trey Edward Shults, the acclaimed director behind the emotionally resonant Krisha and the unsettling Waves, ventured into new territory with his latest film, Hurry Up Tomorrow. However, this musical drama, while ambitious, ultimately fails to connect with the audience on the same visceral level as his previous works. Instead of delivering a powerful emotional experience, the film leaves viewers feeling somewhat adrift, a missed opportunity for a director known for his potent storytelling.

While Shults' previous films were praised for their innovative cinematography and raw emotional honesty, Hurry Up Tomorrow's attempt to incorporate musical elements feels jarring and disjointed. The integration of music, rather than enhancing the narrative, often detracts from it, leaving the emotional core of the story muddled and unclear. This is a significant misstep for a director whose strength lies in capturing the nuanced complexities of human emotion.

A Disappointing Departure from Shults' Established Style

Shults' signature style – a blend of intimate camerawork and intensely personal storytelling – is noticeably absent. The film's pacing feels uneven, shifting awkwardly between moments of intense emotion and stretches of narrative that feel underdeveloped. This lack of cohesion undermines the film's potential, preventing it from achieving the emotional resonance that defines Shults' previous work. Where Krisha and Waves were lauded for their immersive and deeply affecting narratives, Hurry Up Tomorrow feels distant and detached.

The Music: A Missed Opportunity

The musical aspects of the film, intended to amplify the emotional impact, instead create a disconnect. The songs, while potentially well-intentioned, lack the power and emotional depth needed to support the narrative. They often feel like an afterthought, interrupting the flow of the story rather than organically complementing it. This is a crucial area where the film falters; a well-integrated score can elevate a film to new heights, but in this case, the music hinders the emotional journey.

Weak Character Development and Unclear Narrative

Beyond the musical shortcomings, the film suffers from underdeveloped characters. While the actors deliver commendable performances, the script fails to provide them with the depth and complexity needed to fully engage the audience. The lack of strong character development makes it difficult to connect with the characters' struggles and triumphs, weakening the overall impact of the narrative. The plot itself feels somewhat meandering, lacking a clear and compelling arc that keeps viewers invested.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity for a Talented Director

In conclusion, Hurry Up Tomorrow represents a significant departure from Trey Edward Shults' established style and falls short of the emotional power of his previous works. While the ambition is commendable, the execution leaves much to be desired. The jarring integration of music, underdeveloped characters, and an unclear narrative ultimately result in a film that fails to resonate with audiences. It’s a disappointing entry in the filmography of a director who has shown immense promise. For those seeking a powerful and emotionally resonant cinematic experience, this film may leave you feeling unfulfilled. Perhaps Shults will return to his strengths in his next project. What are your thoughts on Hurry Up Tomorrow? Share your opinions in the comments below.