Review of Control (2007) by Jeff G — 02 Jan 2009

I've dabbled in listening to Joy Division but had no knowledge of their backstory. However i'm a huge fan of Anton Corbijn so this was a win win movie for me. I pretty much knew I had to see this movie.

While the music is a definite part of the movie it was the sad story of Ian Curtis that took center stage. I will never understand what made him so unhappy that he felt he should take his own life. I suppose it was his living situation with his wife and child and his love affair with another woman that seemed to tear himself apart. The music (with the exceptions of Atmosphere and Love Will Tear Us Apart) was rerecorded for the film and sang by lead actor Sam Riley. Not too bad performances but I really wish they also didn't touch Transmission (imo their best song).

Corbijin is well known for his use of b&w cinematography and it suits the movie very well. Its stark and moody and it reflects Ian's persona. If you are a Joy Division fan this is a must see. Also for Anton Corbijn for his first movie debut it isn't bad at all.