Film Review: Leading man should stick to writing music and leave acting to the actors
x
is an experimental exploration of the effects of obsession, despair and unprocessed grief.
While the film aims high in its effort to emulate contemplative artistry, it unfortunately falls short of anything remarkable and ultimately becomes a meandering vanity project.
Abel Tesfaye, more likely recognised by his stage name The Weeknd, stars as himself and shares a screenwriting credit with director Trey Edward Shults. The film follows Abel as he struggles to cope with the demands of his new world tour, in the aftermath of a devastating break-up. Plagued by insomnia, the artist soon loses his grip on reality and begins to slip into nightmarish hallucination. When a mysterious stranger, played by Jenna Ortega, threatens to destroy his career, he is forced to confront his demons and process his unresolved trauma.
The film acts as a companion piece to The Weeknd’s latest album of the same name, telling a fictional story inspired by Tesfaye’s experience of grappling with fame.
While this unique concept was initially intriguing, it soon became obvious that the film was intended as nothing more than a showcase for The Weeknd’s music, acting essentially as a very expensive marketing ploy. The strongest elements are easily the visuals and sound design, crafting a hypnotic and dreamlike experience, immersing the audience in the protagonist’s world of existential crises. These strengths considered, it should be no surprise that the film often feels like an extended music video.
While Abel Tesfaye is only playing a fictionalised version of himself, his performance is awkward and lacks screen presence. I’m sure many viewers will prescribe the same advice in suggesting that he sticks to writing music and leaves the acting to the actors.
Around Tesfaye, the supporting cast is perfectly functional yet entirely unremarkable. Barry Keoghan plays Lee, Tesfaye’s manager and close friend, who just so happens to be from Dublin. Keoghan’s performance is just fine, not exactly requiring much of a transformation from the young actor.
Jenna Ortega’s character is something of a mystery and is not given much to do until the final act. Once again, her performance is entirely passable but by no means memorable. However, the fact remains, the main and only real character in this film is Abel Tesfaye. Unfortunately, he is just not that interesting a character.
I must admit I really tried to enjoy this movie. I found its unique premise interesting and was hoping to find a hidden gem. However, after an hour with no identifiable plot or any sense of direction as to where it would go, I lost any hope for this celluloid extravaganza. While fans of The Weeknd’s music may appreciate ***Hurry Up Tomorrow***, I imagine most filmgoers will be left scratching their heads.
