Unraveling ‘Back to Black'
‘Back to Black', a moving biopic tracing the exceptional life and tragically short career of the celebrated singer, Amy Winehouse, has recently been the talk of the town. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, the film brilliantly portrays Winehouse's meteoric rise and subsequent downfall, all by the age of 27. One of the misconceptions surrounding the movie, which Taylor-Johnson wishes to clear, lies in the control that Winehouse's family exerted over it.
Setting The Record Straight
Contrary to popular belief, Winehouse's family had no control over the production of ‘Back to Black'. While it's common for families to wield the music rights of deceased singers to sway biopics towards their liking, Taylor-Johnson assures that it wasn't the case with ‘Back to Black'. She learned from the film's producer, Alison Owen, that Winehouse's family did not have the authority to approve the script or use her music as leverage. The fact that the family had sold Winehouse's music catalogue only further solidified her narrative freedom.
Respecting Both Sides of the Story
Taylor-Johnson, undivided in her pursuit of authenticity, arranged a meeting with Winehouse's parents, Mitch and Janis. She believed it was only fair to give them a chance to voice their stories and get a sense of assurance. The revelations from this meeting offered fascinating insights into Winehouse's life and provided an essential metaphor for the film. Janis recalled how Winehouse was attached to a canary, which after dying, was given a proper burial. This bird represented the fragile and gentle nature of Amy, an analogy that the director felt was undeniable.
The Ex-Husband Controversy
Blake Fielder-Civil, Winehouse's ex-husband, plays a pivotal role in ‘Back to Black'. Despite Taylor-Johnson's efforts to meet him, three meetings were scheduled and subsequently cancelled owing to Fielder-Civil's apprehensions of judgement. However, Jack O'Connell, the actor playing him, was able to meet him. Fielder-Civil's review of the film indicates that it was not focused solely on the addiction narrative.
The Reactions to ‘Back to Black'
While some critics accused ‘Back to Black' of treating Fielder-Civil gently, the ex-husband expressed his appreciation for the balanced narrative. Mitch and Janis Winehouse, satisfied with the biopic, attended its premiere in April.
Director's Big Night
At the SCAD Lacoste Film Festival, Taylor-Johnson bagged the Outstanding Achievement in Directing Award. The evening was made even more memorable with Taylor-Johnson and her husband, actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson, interacting with the students and attendees.
Where to catch ‘Back to Black'?
You can now enjoy ‘Back to Black' on video-on-demand platforms, experiencing the rollercoaster journey of Amy Winehouse. It is not just a film. It's the compelling tale of a mesmerising voice that will forever be remembered.
So, it's clear – Amy Winehouse's family had no real control over ‘Back to Black'. What we have instead is a well-balanced biopic, directing a respectful, truthful, and insightful lens towards the life of a singer whose voice continues to resonate. The movie stands as a testament to not just the complex and enigmatic life that Winehouse led, but also to the unstoppable spirit of the artist, forever engraved in her timeless music.
