Simply Beautiful

Rating: 10/10 (22 February 2008)

This has to be one of the best directorial debuts ever committed to film. Shot in B&W throughout, the director draws you into the world of a writer who arguably could have given Bono a run for his money at live aid if he had lived. A lot of people will think they know the joy division story, and for the most part they will. This delves into Ian's life both with Deborah, The band and his Belgian lover. As someone who has lived in Manchester and worked with up & coming bands, the weight of Ian's legacy weighs heavily on the city to this day with places like the Roundhouse still showcasing talent whilst reminding people what they lost in May 1980. It has gone into my top 10 of all time for the first time performance of Sam Riley who really brings Curtis to life on the screen. Forget what you think you know of the Joy Division legend, and see it from the point of view of someone who was left behind but loved Ian Curtis.