Introduction to The Weeknd’s Busy Month
It is a busy month for Abel Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd. Last week, the artist broadcast the latest iteration of his sold-out "After Hours Til Dawn" tour in Glendale, Arizona. This Friday, his first feature film "Eile Up Tomorrow" is released worldwide.
The Success of the Tour
According to Darryl Eaton, Co-Head of Global Touring at CAA, the tour is on track to be the highest-grossing North American tour of the year, with a speed of over $400 million. Eaton describes this as "really the biggest week of an artist."
The Film: A Moody Psychological Odyssey
The film "Eile Up Tomorrow" is an accompanying piece to the artist’s album of the same name. It sees The Weeknd star in a moody psychological odyssey, which represents a fictional version of himself inspired by his own darkest moments. The film is directed by Trey Edward Shults and co-stars Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan.
A Multi-Platform Experience
The film was created before the album was completed and serves as a piece of a new multi-platform experience that blends music, theater, and touring. This ambitious package required collaboration between Lionsgate, Republic Records, The Weeknd’s XO label, Manic Phase Productions, Live Nation, and CAA, among others.
The Collaboration Process
Adam Fogelson, Chairman of Lionsgate’s Film Group, describes the collaboration as smoother than expected, despite the large number of parties involved. "We spent the early part of this relationship making sure everyone understood what their role in this orchestra would be, how everyone could add maximum value without stepping on someone’s toes," he explains.
A New Way to Connect with Fans
The partnership with The Weeknd has opened doors for Lionsgate to support successful artists in finding new ways to connect with their fans. The studio already has first-look deals with filmmakers Chad Stahelski, Francis Lawrence, and Paul Feig.
The Film’s Release
The film "Eile Up Tomorrow" will be released in cinemas this Friday, competing against "Final Destination: Bloodlines." However, the goal was not to create a Marvel-like blockbuster. The film was made on a budget of just $15 million, making it an attractive project for Lionsgate.
The Future of Creative Collaborations
Fogelson believes that Lionsgate can work flexibly with talented individuals, whether they are pursuing traditional or completely new paths. "I think that’s what Lionsgate is – a home that can work flexibly with people who we believe are undeniable in their talent," he says.
The Weeknd’s Creative Vision
Live Nation’s Omar Al-Joulani describes The Weeknd’s commitment to this unconventional rollout as "proof of his clear vision of the creative journey." The Weeknd’s team adds that he is always willing to take risks and push boundaries, never following traditional strategies or campaigns.
Conclusion
With the tour in progress and the album already breaking records, the runway is clear for the "Eile Up Tomorrow" film to make a landing. While it may not be a cash register juggernaut, it is an innovative expansion of The Weeknd’s creative vision, akin to Prince’s "Purple Rain" in 1984. The Weeknd’s team believes that he will continue to surprise and push into unknown areas, always daring to be different and fearless in his approach.
