Joy Division
Joy Division

Movie spotlight

Joy Division

2009
Movie
100 min
English

A chronological account of the influential late 1970s English rock band.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic72/100
Google Users85%
Director: Grant GeeGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the intense and tragically short career of Joy Division, a band whose post-punk sound and dark lyrical themes profoundly influenced music. It delves into the life of lead singer Ian Curtis, examining his personal struggles, epilepsy, and artistic vision that defined the band's output. The film uses archival footage, interviews with band members, and personal accounts to paint a picture of a band that burned brightly but briefly, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.

Critical Reception

Joy Division received largely positive reviews from critics, who praised its intimate portrayal of the band and its enigmatic frontman. Reviewers highlighted the film's effective use of archival material and its candid interviews with the surviving members, offering a poignant look at a pivotal moment in music history. While some noted it might be less revelatory for those already deeply familiar with the band's story, it was widely considered a compelling and respectful tribute.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its raw and poignant portrayal of Ian Curtis and the band's meteoric rise and fall.

  • Lauded for its extensive use of archival footage and candid interviews with surviving band members.

  • Considered a moving and insightful tribute to a band that shaped post-punk music.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally reflect a strong appreciation for the film's honest and emotional depiction of Joy Division's story, particularly Ian Curtis's struggles. Many viewers found the documentary to be a fitting and respectful tribute to a band they deeply admire, highlighting its authenticity and the lasting impact of the music.

Fun Fact

The film features newly discovered footage of Joy Division performing their song 'She's Lost Control' at the Russell Club in 1979, which had previously been thought to be lost.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

In the shadowplay acting out your own death knowing no more. Joy Division, the mercurial Manchester based masters of dark post punk sounds, who in Ian Curtis had one of the eras most tortured souls. Directed by Grant Gee and written b...