Control (2007)

Control Poster

The story of Joy Division’s lead singer Ian Curtis, from his schoolboy days in 1973 to his suicide on the eve of the band's first American tour in 1980.

Introduction to "Control"
"Control" is a 2007 biographical film directed by Anton Corbijn, which narrates the life of Ian Curtis, the enigmatic diva of the post-punk band Pleasure Division. The film is an adjustment of "Touching from a Range", a book by Curtis's widow, Deborah, and it stars Sam Riley as Ian Curtis, Samantha Morton as Deborah, and Alexandra Maria Lara as Annik Honoré, with whom Curtis develops a relationship. "Control" paints a stark, black and white portrait of Curtis's battles with his rise to popularity, his individual life, and his fight with epilepsy.

Plot Summary of "Control"
The film starts with Curtis's teen years in Macclesfield, England, in the 1970s. We see his early interests in music, poetry, and composing, and witness his very first meeting with Deborah, whom he married at the age of 19. Curtis's passion for music leads him to sign up with Joy Division as the lead singer, where his skill rapidly elevates the band's profile.

Nevertheless, as the band's success grows, Curtis's personal life begins to decipher. His marriage to Deborah ends up being stretched due to his extramarital relations and his increasing absence due to touring and taping dedications. Curtis's relationship with Annik Honoré, a young Belgian journalist, is a substantial psychological stress both on him and his marital relationship.

In the middle of these personal challenges, Curtis likewise grapples with a diagnosis of epilepsy, which causes severe seizures. The medication prescribed to him impacts his state of mind and behavior, and both the disease and the adverse effects produce a barrier in between Curtis and those around him.

The stress in between Curtis's responsibilities, his health issues, and the pressure of leading a band on the edge of global success takes a toll on his psychological health. Despite the support of his bandmates and loved ones, Curtis feels caught and overwhelmed by the scenarios of his life.

Cinematic Style and Performances
"Control" is especially shot in black and white, which not only sets the state of mind similar to the late 1970s and early 1980s however also reflects the bleakness and seclusion that Ian Curtis felt. Corbijn, who had actually formerly worked as a photographer and music video director, utilizes his keen visual eye to produce compelling and climatic shots that mirror the introspective and intense nature of Joy Division's music.

The efficiencies in "Control" include a considerable layer of depth to the film. Sam Riley's representation of Ian Curtis is particularly well-known, capturing both the charm of Curtis on phase and the deep anguish he felt in private. Samantha Morton provides an effective efficiency as Deborah, bringing to life the pain of a lady torn in between love for her other half and the agony of his extramarital relations and detachment.

Themes and Impact
"Control" checks out themes of artistic expression, the concerns of fame, the struggle with mental illness, and the effects of individual options. It is a movie about the human behind the icon, highlighting how the pressures of a common life can encounter amazing skill, resulting in an awful outcome.

The impact of "Control" extends beyond its cinematic accomplishments, using a poignant take a look at Ian Curtis's short life and the famous music of Joy Division that continues to influence artists today. The film is a thoughtful reflection on the expense of genius and the fragility of the human spirit.

Conclusion
"Control" is more than a rock biopic; it is an intimate, haunting exploration of a struggling artist that transcends the music genre. Anton Corbijn's skillful instructions and the movie's fascinating performances create a moving tribute to Ian Curtis and a plain suggestion of the intricacies of the human mind. The movie leaves audiences with a lasting impression of Curtis's life and the enduring mark he left on music and culture.

Top Cast

  • Samantha Morton (small)
    Samantha Morton
    Debbie Curtis
  • Sam Riley (small)
    Sam Riley
    Ian Curtis
  • Alexandra Maria Lara (small)
    Alexandra Maria Lara
    Annik Honoré
  • Joe Anderson (small)
    Joe Anderson
    Hooky
  • Toby Kebbell (small)
    Toby Kebbell
    Rob Greton
  • Craig Parkinson (small)
    Craig Parkinson
    Tony Wilson
  • James Anthony Pearson (small)
    James Anthony Pearson
    Bernard Sumner
  • Harry Treadaway (small)
    Harry Treadaway
    Steve Morris
  • Andrew Sheridan
    Terry
  • Robert Shelly
    Twinny
  • Richard Bremmer (small)
    Richard Bremmer
    Ian's Father