Hurry Up, Tomorrow: Exploring Chen Kaige’s Controversial Drama

Chen Kaige’s 1996 film, *Hurry Up, Tomorrow*, remains a complex and often debated work within his filmography. Coming after the international success of *Farewell My Concubine*, it marked a stark departure from the historical epics he was known for, venturing into a contemporary, satirical exploration of urban life and its discontents in a rapidly changing China.

The film follows the intertwined lives of several characters navigating the pressures and absurdities of modern Beijing. We meet a frustrated playwright struggling to find his voice, a materialistic young woman yearning for a better life, and various other individuals grappling with identity, ambition, and the allure of superficial success.

*Hurry Up, Tomorrow* distinguishes itself with its overtly satirical tone. Chen Kaige employs a dark and often surreal humor to critique the rampant commercialism, the superficial relationships, and the ethical compromises that permeated society during China’s economic boom. This comedic approach, while sometimes effective in highlighting the film’s core themes, also proves to be divisive, with some critics finding it heavy-handed and lacking the nuance of his earlier work.

Visually, the film presents a stark contrast to the traditional beauty often associated with Chinese cinema. Chen Kaige emphasizes the gritty reality of urban decay and the impersonal nature of modern architecture. The color palette is muted, and the camera often lingers on scenes of crowded streets and dilapidated buildings, reflecting the sense of alienation and disillusionment felt by the characters.

Despite its satirical edge, *Hurry Up, Tomorrow* grapples with serious issues. It explores the erosion of traditional values, the corrosive effects of consumerism, and the struggle for individual expression in a rapidly changing world. The characters’ desperate attempts to find meaning and connection in a shallow and materialistic society resonate with a sense of existential angst.

However, the film’s fragmented narrative and its reliance on caricature have been points of criticism. Some viewers find the characters unsympathetic and the plot disjointed, making it difficult to fully engage with the film’s themes. Compared to the emotional depth and historical scope of *Farewell My Concubine*, *Hurry Up, Tomorrow* often feels less profound and more superficial.

Ultimately, *Hurry Up, Tomorrow* stands as a challenging and provocative work that reflects a particular moment in China’s history. While it may not be considered Chen Kaige’s masterpiece, it offers a valuable insight into the anxieties and contradictions of a society grappling with rapid modernization. Its satirical approach, though sometimes flawed, remains a bold attempt to critique the darker aspects of progress and the human cost of chasing an elusive “tomorrow.” The film’s enduring power lies in its ability to spark discussion about the complexities of modern life and the search for authenticity in a world increasingly driven by superficial values.