Movie Review Control

Tweet

2007 - Spoiler alerts A biopic of the life and tragic death of punk-band singer Ian Curtis of the group, Joy Division (controversially named after a brothel used by the Nazi SS. Joy Division shot to fame quickly thanks to promotion by British promoter and journalist Tony Wilson. Some of the events in this film are touched on more superficially in the Tony Wilson biopic, 24 Hour Party People. As Joy Division were returning home by car after a triumphal tour-gig, Curtis was gripped in a savage epileptic seizure, the first of many. The side effects of his medications, and the stresses caused by a disastrous affair with a rock journalist threatening his marriage made matters worse. The band were two days short of starting a major US tour, when Curtis came roun from his last epileptic episode, and hanged himself, aged only 23. The band relaunched itself as New Order and still plays and records to this day. A very good biopic, with great performances, based on a book by Curtis's widow, directed by the band's official photographer with support by the band survivors and Tony Wilson, giving it a great deal of authenticity. Sam Riley is very moving n the lead role but the best performance is that of Toby Kebbel as their foul mouthed highly mercenary manager. The terrific music of Joy Division, and poetry by John Cooper Clark (playing himself) really lift this movie above the average. Youtube - Joy Division - Love Will Tear Us Apart Arthur Chappell