Control (2007) Review: A Gritty Portrait of a Musical Icon
Introduction
Control (2007), directed by Anton Corbijn, is a biographical film that explores the life and struggles of Ian Curtis, the lead singer of the post-punk band Joy Division. With Sam Riley in the titular role, the film provides an intimate look at Curtis’s tumultuous life, marked by his musical genius, personal struggles, and tragic end. This review examines the film’s plot, performances, direction, and thematic elements, as well as where you can stream or purchase it in the United States.
Plot Overview
Control focuses on the life of Ian Curtis (Sam Riley), from his rise as the charismatic frontman of Joy Division to his tragic death by suicide at the age of 23. The film delves into Curtis’s complex relationships, including his troubled marriage to Deborah (Samantha Morton) and his affair with Annik Honoré (Alexandra Maria Lara), a Belgian journalist.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the late 1970s music scene, capturing Curtis’s internal struggles with epilepsy, depression, and the pressures of fame. The film portrays his journey through the highs of musical success and the lows of personal turmoil, culminating in his tragic end and the impact on his band and loved ones.
Performances
Sam Riley: Sam Riley delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as Ian Curtis, capturing both the charisma and vulnerability of the troubled musician. Riley’s portrayal brings depth to Curtis’s character, effectively conveying his inner conflicts and emotional struggles. His performance is central to the film’s impact, providing a powerful and authentic depiction of Curtis’s life.
Samantha Morton: Samantha Morton plays Deborah Curtis, Ian’s wife. Morton’s performance is marked by emotional depth and complexity, portraying Deborah’s struggle to understand and support her husband while dealing with her own feelings of isolation and frustration. Morton’s portrayal adds significant emotional weight to the film.
Alexandra Maria Lara: Alexandra Maria Lara appears as Annik Honoré, Curtis’s lover. Lara’s performance adds a layer of poignancy to the story, highlighting the personal and emotional impact of Curtis’s relationships. Her portrayal provides insight into the complexities of Curtis’s life and the effect of his actions on those around him.
Direction and Cinematography
Direction: Anton Corbijn directs Control with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of Curtis’s life and music. Corbijn’s direction emphasizes the emotional and psychological aspects of Curtis’s story, blending historical accuracy with a personal and artistic touch. His approach ensures that the film remains both intimate and impactful, capturing the essence of Curtis’s life and legacy.
Cinematography: Cinematographer Martin Ruhe’s work on the film is notable for its moody and atmospheric visuals. The cinematography effectively captures the bleak and gritty atmosphere of the late 1970s, reflecting the film’s themes of struggle and despair. The use of black-and-white film adds a sense of authenticity and nostalgia, enhancing the film’s portrayal of the era.
Themes and Impact
Control explores themes of mental illness, fame, and personal struggle. The film delves into the impact of Curtis’s epilepsy and depression on his life and music, providing a poignant and realistic portrayal of his struggles. It also examines the effects of fame and artistic success on personal relationships and mental health.
The film’s impact lies in its ability to provide a respectful and insightful portrayal of a musical icon while addressing complex and sensitive issues. Control offers a deep and moving exploration of Ian Curtis’s life, capturing the emotional and psychological dimensions of his experiences.
The film has been praised for its strong performances, meticulous direction, and evocative cinematography. Control stands out as a significant contribution to the genre of biographical films, offering a thoughtful and impactful depiction of a key figure in music history.
Where to Watch
As of now, Control (2007) is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. For those interested in renting or purchasing the film, it can also be found on Vudu, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies, available in HD formats. These options ensure that viewers can access this critically acclaimed film with ease.
Conclusion
Control (2007) is a powerful and poignant biographical film that provides an intimate look at the life and struggles of Ian Curtis. Directed by Anton Corbijn and featuring standout performances from Sam Riley, Samantha Morton, and Alexandra Maria Lara, the film offers a moving and respectful portrayal of a musical icon. Whether revisiting this compelling film or discovering it for the first time, Control provides a deeply affecting and insightful cinematic experience.
