Hurry Up Tomorrow – (2025)

Release Date: May 16, 2025
Director: Trey Edward Shults
Starring: Abel Tesfaye (The Weeknd), Jenna Ortega, Barry Keoghan
Runtime: 105 minutes
Genre: Musical Psychological Thriller

The Plot: Fame, Fan Obsession, and a Descent into Darkness

In Hurry Up Tomorrow, Abel Tesfaye (The Weeknd) portrays a fictionalized version of himself—a globally renowned musician spiraling into despair after a breakup and the loss of his voice during a Halloween performance. As he indulges in substance abuse and navigates a chaotic world tour, he encounters Anima (Jenna Ortega), a troubled fan who has burned down her childhood home and seeks solace in his music. Their paths intertwine in a surreal journey that blurs the lines between reality and hallucination, culminating in a confrontation that forces both characters to face their inner demons.

My Thoughts: A Raw and Personal Ride That Grew on Me

I went into this film completely blind—no trailers, no commentary, just a love for The Weeknd, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan. And honestly, that made the experience even more impactful. It was clear from the start that this was a deeply personal project for Abel. Using his real name, incorporating his own music—it felt like he mined his own life and emotional history. The similarities in tone and production to The Idol were striking, especially that dark yet vulnerable edge that defines his musical style.

The first 20 minutes have almost no dialogue—just visuals and music, which make it feel like you’re sitting behind the scenes at one of his concerts. It’s jarring at first, but once you settle into it, the immersion is undeniable. Jenna Ortega plays a lost, lonely teenager who latches onto Abel's music as a lifeline—something very reflective of many young fans today. Barry's character, Lee, as Abel’s best friend and manager, felt like a warning about the people who cling to you for the money, regardless of your physical or mental health.

By the time I left the theater and started driving home, the film had already started growing on me. Listening to the soundtrack again made it all click—this wasn’t just a film, it was an experience. One that gives you space to reflect on your own interpretation. Especially with that last song, "Hurry Up Tomorrow," it feels like a confession, a letting go of demons, and maybe, a turning point.

The Cast: Ortega’s Standout Role and Symbolic Supporting Acts

Jenna Ortega’s Anima is heartbreaking, eerie, and real. Her portrayal of a teen who finds salvation in an artist's voice speaks volumes about fandom in the modern world. Barry Keoghan’s Lee adds weight to the narrative, showcasing how fame attracts enablers. And while Abel’s acting wasn’t award-worthy, it didn’t have to be—his vulnerability carried the role. This was his world, his vision.

The Ending: Was It All a Dream?

That’s the question I couldn’t stop thinking about: Was it a dream? I love when movies leave things open to interpretation. The cyclical ending, with Abel back in costume and preparing for another concert, suggests a loop. A metaphor for the cycle of fame and abuse, or maybe a literal dream. Either way, that final track and the themes of redemption brought the whole experience together.

It’s like the film is showing how society treats stars as above human, and how that mindset warps everything—from relationships to self-worth. Abel’s eventual shift might not have happened if it weren’t for Anima, who reflected his own brokenness back at him. She was the mirror he needed to see himself clearly.

Controversy: A Polarizing Release Met with Harsh Criticism

Despite its ambition, Hurry Up Tomorrow was torn apart by critics upon release. With reviewers calling it a "soulless music video" and accusing it of being a narcissistic vanity project. Many felt the film lacked coherent structure or a meaningful arc, and some took issue with its portrayal of Jenna Ortega’s character, calling her underwritten and symbolic rather than a fully developed person.

Critics also pointed out that the movie leaned too heavily into style over substance. Its extended concert-like sequences and abstract visuals, while artistically bold, left many confused and detached. Abel's decision to center the story on a dream-like fantasy involving himself drew accusations of self-indulgence—particularly given his already controversial work in The Idol.

Public Feedback: Fans Divided, But The Conversation Is Loud

Online, the reaction has been much more varied. Some fans admire the film for its ambition and personal depth. On Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), many users praised Jenna Ortega’s raw performance, and some even celebrated The Weeknd’s courage in showcasing such a vulnerable side of himself. Others, though, echoed critics’ sentiments, citing poor pacing, confusing storytelling, and shallow characters.

A recurring complaint is the film’s lack of clarity. Is it a dream? Is it real? Who is Anima supposed to represent? Some have compared the narrative ambiguity to Donnie Darko, while others felt it just wasn’t well executed. The Weeknd’s fans are also discussing whether he should stick to music or continue pursuing film, with opinions split right down the middle.

Final Thoughts: A Flawed but Fascinating Art Project

Hurry Up Tomorrow is far from perfect. It’s uneven, unconventional, and definitely not for everyone. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in heart. It’s an intimate look inside The Weeknd’s mind, a cinematic therapy session set to beats and neon lights. For fans willing to meet it halfway, there’s a lot to unpack—and maybe even admire.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)

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