For devotees of post-punk and the profoundly influential soundscapes of Joy Division, the name Ian Curtis resonates with a poignant mix of poetic brilliance and tragic fragility. Decades after his untimely passing, Curtis and his band’s legacy continue to captivate and move listeners. In 2007, Anton Corbijn brought Deborah Curtis’s intimate biography, “Touching From A Distance,” to the silver screen with “Control,” a film as stark and powerful as Joy Division’s music itself. Even before its release, the Control 2007 Trailer offered a glimpse into this haunting world, setting the stage for a cinematic experience that delves deep into the life of a troubled genius. This is not just a band biopic; it’s the intensely personal story of Ian Curtis, a young man grappling with fame, love, and inner demons amidst the burgeoning Manchester music scene.
Anton Corbijn’s Vision: Black and White and to the Bone
Director Anton Corbijn, known for his iconic photography of bands like Joy Division, brought a unique and deeply personal perspective to “Control.” Filmed in stark black and white, the movie visually echoes the raw, unpolished aesthetic of the post-punk era and the emotional landscape of Ian Curtis’s life. This stylistic choice wasn’t merely aesthetic; it was crucial in capturing the atmosphere of late 1970s England and the internal world of Curtis. Corbijn’s dedication to authenticity, drawn directly from Deborah Curtis’s account, ensures the film remains a respectful and unflinching portrayal, avoiding sensationalism in favor of emotional truth. The control 2007 trailer immediately highlighted this visual approach, promising a film that was as much an art piece as a biography.
Sam Riley’s Embodiment of Ian Curtis
Central to the film’s success is Sam Riley’s mesmerizing performance as Ian Curtis. Riley doesn’t just impersonate Curtis; he embodies him, capturing the singer’s intense stage presence, his brooding introspection, and his inner turmoil with remarkable depth. Alongside Riley, Samantha Morton delivers a powerful portrayal of Deborah Curtis, navigating the complexities of their relationship with nuanced emotion. Toby Kebbell as Rob Gretton, Joy Division’s manager, provides a grounded and dynamic performance, completing a trio of stand-out acting that elevates “Control” beyond a typical music biopic. The performances, heavily hinted at in the control 2007 trailer, are raw and authentic, mirroring the emotional honesty of the source material.
Love, Music, and Turmoil: Navigating Curtis’s Fractured World
“Control” meticulously charts Ian Curtis’s journey from his early marriage to Deborah, his burgeoning musical ambitions, and the rapid ascent of Joy Division. The film unflinchingly portrays the pressures of sudden fame, the debilitating effects of Curtis’s epilepsy, and the complexities of his personal relationships, including his affair. Key moments, such as the electrifying performance of “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” are rendered with visceral power, showcasing both Curtis’s artistic genius and his mounting personal struggles. The film also touches upon the then-limited understanding and treatment of epilepsy, adding another layer of tragedy to Curtis’s story. As previewed in the control 2007 trailer, “Control” doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of Curtis’s life, offering a complete and complex portrait.
A Lasting Impact: More Than Just a Movie
“Control” was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, garnering numerous awards and accolades. More importantly, it reignited interest in Joy Division’s music, introducing a new generation to their groundbreaking sound and solidifying their enduring influence. The film serves as a poignant reminder of Curtis’s genius and the fragility of the human spirit, resonating deeply with both long-time fans and those new to the story. “Control” is more than just a biopic; it’s a powerful cinematic experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. For anyone intrigued by the control 2007 trailer, the full film delivers on its promise and offers a profound and moving journey into the life and times of Ian Curtis.
