The Weeknd’s ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ Explores Mental Struggles in Film Debut

LAS VEGAS — Abel Tesfaye, known worldwide as The Weeknd, is set to release his first feature film, Hurry Up Tomorrow, on May 16. The film represents a major leap for the pop superstar, who has always wanted to create cinema.

Tesfaye, 35, wrote the screenplay alongside director Trey Edward Shults. The film, a psychological horror-drama, features Tesfaye as a fictionalized version of himself grappling with the loss of his voice during a concert in California in 2022.

“Hurry Up Tomorrow” is described as a companion piece to the artist’s recent album of the same name, which is part of a record-breaking trilogy. The film also stars Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan, further elevating its high stakes.

During a recent interview, Tesfaye expressed how deeply personal this project is for him. “Cinema has always been my number one passion,” he said. “Music felt like a detour, but I’ve always wanted to make movies.”

Director Shults, known for acclaimed films like Waves and It Comes At Night, spoke about his connection with Tesfaye. “When I met Abel, I felt that kismet connection,” he said. “It was very natural and organic.”

“Hurry Up Tomorrow” explores elements such as insomnia and sleep paralysis, which Tesfaye shared he has personally experienced. This psychological angle adds depth and complexity to the film’s narrative.

“One of the main concepts is sleep paralysis,” Tesfaye explained. “It’s been vivid nightmares, and you can be aware of your surroundings but can’t move.” This haunting experience directly influenced the storytelling in the film.

As the opening of the film approaches, Tesfaye’s transformation from musician to actor is under the spotlight. He emphasized that working alongside talents like Keoghan and Ortega helped him step into his role authentically.

“I knew I needed to do my job as an actor and trust Trey’s vision,” Tesfaye said. “I just focused on performing.”

With the film’s unique exploration of vulnerability and creative resilience, Hurry Up Tomorrow might just redefine The Weeknd’s legacy.