Devastating and Brilliant

Rating: 9/10 (12 February 2008)

If Ian Curtis were a fictional character, he would truly be one of the most tragic anti-heroes of all time. He is a man whose romantic youth had been very foolish and had led to his sense of being completely trapped with every avenue of escape turning sour. The fact that he was a real person makes this story devastating. This is not a film for a rainy afternoon, but it is absolutely brilliant.
The strength of this film cannot be pinned down to one single area. Matt Greenhalgh's script is intelligent. Corbijn's direction is interesting. The soundtrack is electric. The look of the film is stylish. The cast is superb. It is an all round impressive piece of work emphasised by the fact that it is able to overcome its failings, which mainly stem from the pace. Whilst it is nice to see a film that is prepared to take its time, there are times when the speed begins to drag. However, it is worth working through the slower moments.
There are moments when the film is absolutely gripping and electric, but at all times it is interesting. Corbijn brings style effortlessly to this film. The monochrome cinematography may seem clichéd but it is completely apt and wonderful to look at. His cutting is fascinating: there is always something going on. His choice of music is brilliant and the soundtrack is an absolutely terrific collection of songs. It is an astonishing effort from the debut director, who actually photographed the band when they were in their prime.
He is supported by a pitch perfect cast. Sam Riley, in essentially a debut performance, is magnificent. He completely holds your attention and is sympathetic despite his character's human failings. He is assisted by a wonderful supporting performance from Samantha Morton. When the pair of them are on the screen together, they create genuinely touching scenes. From playing the happy young lovers right through the lows of their relationship, they are utterly believable. The rest of the ensemble, especially Alexandra Maria Lara and Toby Kebbell, complete the sense of the world of late seventies and early eighties Macclesfield.
However, despite the brilliant direction, the superb sound and the wonderful performances, the reason why this film will last for many years is the central story about a young man trapped by the accident of birth, his mistakes and his misfortune. It isn't uplifting and it isn't heroic. It is utterly heartbreaking. It is utterly human.