Zachary FenellControl
December 18th 2008 02:00
Control, 2007
As a P.O.TH. (Punk Over Thirty), it is often with trepidation and more than a little suspicion that I allow myself to examine (or even imagine) that a movie will do any sort of credit to the icons of My Generation.
That being said, Control, was at once refreshing, confusing and slightly inaccurate, but on the whole, something that every Joy Division (or even New Order) fan should see.
Control is a mostly biographical description of Ian Curtis, the front-man of the ill-fated band Joy Division. While there are probably more accurate depictions out there, the way the film handles his epilepsy, his marriage, and the birth of his daughter Natalie is presented with such an artful touch that it's easy to forgive the slightly skewed perspectives.
The movie was shot in high-contrast black-and-white. It was a fitting choice given the tortured nature of Curtis and his short life, but the director chose a lead actor (Sam Riley) with dark hair instead of the sandy blonde we JD fans were accustomed to. Despite my early grumping over this point, when viewed artistically, it was definitely the right decision. The effect was subtle yet profound as we watched our fallen hero fumble and toil through the ravages of his illness, his depression, his conflict and finally his end.
For those who loved the original Alternative music, who loved Underground and Counter-Culture, this movie is a must-see and maybe even a must-own. Do not make it a drinking game, but definitely keep a box of tissues handy, even if you know the ending already.
I gave it 4.5 stars. The half point was deducted only because I kept forgetting that Curtis never dyed his hair black.
4.5 Stars
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Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
I can't believe I haven't seen it yet, but I think it's one of those films I don't want to watch on my own.
Great review,
Tracy