Control

Control is a visually stunning film and marks Anton Corbijn's leap from photographer to music video director to film director. Shot completely in black and white this is not your average rock bio pic. Instead the story of Joy Division enigmatic front man Ian Curtis is a story of a man's journey into the heart of darkness and depression. The film takes the viewer on Ian's journey as he grapples with fear, paranoia, epilepsy and depression. Ian is portrayed by Sam Riley in a stand out performance. Samantha Morton is great as the put upon wife Deborah, and the band manager, Rob Gretton, is played with great moments of humour to a dark story line. The cinematography is a visual feast for the eyes, and gives the film a haunting feel that represents and manifests the echoes of Joy Divisions music. Ian's death is handled well and the climactic ending is punctured with humour and pathos. A fine British film and on not just for fans of Joy Division to devour.

Review by hala