Control (2007 film)

Controlfilm

Control is a 2007 biographical film about the life of Ian Curtis, the lead singer of the post-punk band Joy Division. The film is directed by Anton Corbijn and is based on the biography Touching from a Distance by Deborah Curtis, Ian Curtis's widow.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The film chronicles the life of Ian Curtis from his teenage years, his marriage to Deborah Curtis, and his rise to fame as the lead singer of Joy Division. It also delves into his struggles with epilepsy and depression, which ultimately led to his suicide at the age of 23.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Production[edit | edit source]

Anton Corbijn, who had previously worked with Joy Division as a photographer, directed the film. The screenplay was written by Matt Greenhalgh. The film was shot in black and white to reflect the mood and era of the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Music[edit | edit source]

The soundtrack features music by Joy Division, as well as tracks by other artists from the same era. New Order, the band formed by the remaining members of Joy Division after Curtis's death, also contributed to the soundtrack.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Control received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly that of Sam Riley as Ian Curtis. The film won several awards, including the Cannes Film Festival's Directors' Fortnight award.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The film has been praised for its accurate portrayal of Ian Curtis and the impact of Joy Division on the post-punk music scene. It has also been credited with renewing interest in the band's music and legacy.