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Control (2007)

Control (2007)
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Prolific music-video helmer and award-winning photographer Anton Corbijn makes his feature directorial debut with this biographical drama concerning the late Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis. Based on the book Touching from a Distance: Ian Curtis & Joy Division by the enigmatic singer's wife Deborah Curtis, Control documents the life of a legend who changed the face of modern music but never lived to witness the remarkable impact of his life's work. The time was the late 1970s, and the post-punk explosion was just gaining momentum in England. At the forefront of this movement was a band named Joy Division. Formed in 1976 and first calling themselves Warsaw, Joy Division favored mood and expression over the aggressive stance that had come to define punk rock. The band was championed by Factory Records founder Tony Wilson, and collaborated with producer Martin Hannett on the album that would become their undisputed masterpiece -- 1979's Unknown Pleasures. But despite the band's rising popularity, lead singer Curtis was not in good mental or physical health due a debilitating battle with epilepsy and an extramarital affair, and hanged himself in his Macclesfield home on the eve of the band's first U.S. tour. Newcomer Sam Riley stars opposite Samantha Morton in the film that sets out to tell the definitive story of a true rock & roll legend. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi

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Starring:
Samantha Morton, Sam Riley, (more)
Director(s):
Anton Corbijn
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R
Format(s):
DVD
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Synopsis of Control

Prolific music-video helmer and award-winning photographer Anton Corbijn makes his feature directorial debut with this biographical drama concerning the late Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis. Based on the book Touching from a Distance: Ian Curtis & Joy Division by the enigmatic singer's wife Deborah Curtis, Control documents the life of a legend who changed the face of modern music but never lived to witness the remarkable impact of his life's work. The time was the late 1970s, and the post-punk explosion was just gaining momentum in England. At the forefront of this movement was a band named Joy Division. Formed in 1976 and first calling themselves Warsaw, Joy Division favored mood and expression over the aggressive stance that had come to define punk rock. The band was championed by Factory Records founder Tony Wilson, and collaborated with producer Martin Hannett on the album that would become their undisputed masterpiece -- 1979's Unknown Pleasures. But despite the band's rising popularity, lead singer Curtis was not in good mental or physical health due a debilitating battle with epilepsy and an extramarital affair, and hanged himself in his Macclesfield home on the eve of the band's first U.S. tour. Newcomer Sam Riley stars opposite Samantha Morton in the film that sets out to tell the definitive story of a true rock & roll legend. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
122 mins

Complete Cast of Control


Director(s):
Anton Corbijn
Writer(s):
Matt Greenhalgh
Producer(s):
Anton Corbijn, Todd Eckert, Orian Williams
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R(Profanity, Sexual Situations)
Control Awards:
  • 2007 - Cannes Film Festival - Camera d'Or - Honorable Mention
  • 2007 - Cannes Film Festival - Directors' Fortnight - Honorable Mention
  • 2007 - Cannes Film Festival - Label Europa Cinéma Prize - Best European Film
  • 2007 - Cannes Film Festival - Prix Regards Jeunes / Young Eyes Prize
Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

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    Stephen G.

    i went into the movie expecting more i think but wasn't left disappointed just felt like i could have skipped about 30 minutes of the movie and still got the same enjoyment out of it. i wanted to know how he lived more than what forced him to die really and was let down that it was just tragedy until the end. all in all a good movie but very drawn out and bleak.

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    MARIE K.

    It was slow beginning, but after 20 minutes it really took off. Being filmed in black & white added to characters desperate emotional state as well as the mood of the music. Great story, great acting, above all great music. I loved this movie.

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    Anthony G.

    I believe the actor from "24 Hour Party People" would have been the better choice. He seemed to capture Ian Curtis' essence by just comparing file footage and his performance. Other than that small gripe the movie is exceptional. Just be sure to have a fistful of paxil at the ready.

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