“Control” opens as does any great biopic: with its main character contemplating his existence.
The film centers on the life of Ian Curtis, the late lead singer of English rock band Joy Division.

Co-written by the singer’s former wife, Debbie Curtis, “Control” is an acute look at a struggling band, a failing marriage and the man at the center of both. The black and white film has a grainy, almost documentary feel.
Director Anton Corbijn tries to relate time in the film without going over the top. Yes, there is eyeliner and David Bowie, but the glamour of 1970s rock is not present.
Corbijn made the right choice. The film does not feel exaggerated or pretentious in any way.
There are a few instances, however, when events are slightly suspect. The most prominent of these is when Curtis gets the attention of TV personality Tony Wilson by giving him a note that says “Joy Division You Cunt” or when Wilson signs the band’s Factory Records contract in his own blood.
“Control” does not try to make anyone a hero. It is a film full of powerful imagery laced with impregnated silence.
In fact, silence is where the movie came alive.
Few words are shared between Curtis and his lover Anik Honoré; their on-screen relationship seems to rely on body language. Curtis says nothing at the birth of his child except “I need a cig.” He also says nothing when his wife confronts him about his affair and proceeds to break down in front of him.
So much of the film is Curtis remaining silent that it becomes a dreary contrast when the viewer watches him perform on stage.
The supporting cast – Oscar-nominated Samantha Morton and Joe Anderson from “Across the Universe” – is great, but Sam Riley’s performance is incredible.
Riley embodies the quiet and uncomfortable Curtis with his brooding eyes and melancholy voice. He skillfully portrays the emotionally unstable rock star with ease.
Riley’s performance makes “Control” shine, but the film is still heavy and hard to swallow at times.
Phrases like heart-breaking or tear-jerking would not accurately describe “Control.” It is poignant and painful, leaving your stomach twisted into knots. For fans of Joy Division or people whose lives have been affected by epilepsy or suicide, “Control” is a powerful film about a man who felt just the opposite.
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