Overview

• The film, a companion piece to Tesfaye’s sixth studio album and the conclusion of his After Hours/Dawn FM trilogy, premiered on May 16, 2025, distributed by Lionsgate.
• Critics have largely panned the film for its slow pacing, underdeveloped script, and self-indulgent tone, though performances by Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan have been widely praised.
• Audience reactions have been significantly more positive, with a 77% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter, indicating a divide between critical and public reception.
• The movie explores themes of artistic identity, mental health, and the potential retirement of Tesfaye’s stage persona, The Weeknd, though no definitive decision on this has been announced.
• Directed by Trey Edward Shults, the 105-minute R-rated film blends surrealist storytelling with music video-style visuals, receiving mixed feedback for its experimental approach.