Joy Divison - Under Review

Joy Division - Under Review is a masterful 2006 documentary that explores the profound influence and legacy of one of the most innovative and influential bands to have emerged from the post-punk era, Joy Division. This 90-minute production gives viewers an opportunity to delve deeply into the band's unique sound and evolution, which was characterized by its haunting lyrics, innovative musical style, and iconoclastic tone.

The film features Can, The Clash, Ian Curtis and The Doors, artists who inspired or were influenced by the band. By doing so, the movie successfully places Joy Division within the broader context of rock music and punk culture revolution in the late 70's and early 80's, providing viewers with a more comprehensive understanding of the time and culture during which the band emerged.

Indeed, Joy Division - Under Review is pieced together with exclusive interviews, musical footages, critique from music journalists, and commentary from music scholars, encapsulating the raw energy, ethos, and the beginnings of a band that would, albeit their short lifespan, leave an indelible mark on the music industry. Often thought-provoking and emotionally-charged, the film honors the spirit of Joy Division’s music and its significance, without shy away from the darker aspects of the band's story.

Central to this story is Ian Curtis, Joy Division’s moody and profoundly talented frontman. Curtis' intensely emotional performances, combined with his well-publicized struggle with epilepsy and his tragic death at the age of 23, made him an almost mythical figure in the music world. His dark and introspective lyrics, often dealing with themes of love, desolation, and existential angst, coupled with the band's pioneering sound, have had an enduring impact on generations of musicians and fans alike. The movie does an excellent job of spotlighting the powerful performances by Curtis, revealing his profound impact on the band's sound and the music landscape in general.

The film's exploration of Joy Division's musical influences is deeply enriched by featuring Can and The Doors. Known for outsized personalities and groundbreaking sounds, these bands heavily influenced Joy Division and signified a counter-culture movement that was parallel to the Manchester band's own journey. The film cleverly intertwines these influences and highlights how Joy Division managed to distill these elements into their own distinct musical style.

Moreover, by featuring The Clash, the film taps into the punk rock ethos that prevailed during the time of Joy Division's formation and contextualizes how Joy Division shared and yet challenged the punk movement's conventions. Rather than adopting a derivative sound aligned with other punk bands, Joy Division created a unique blend of rock-electronic-punk that was resolutely original and that continues to be influential.

One of the most commendable aspects of Joy Division - Under Review is its in-depth look at the period which defined the band's rise to fame and subsequent dissolution, set against the socio-cultural backdrop which was Manchester in the late 70s and early 80s. The filmmakers do an excellent job of portraying how this era of political uncertainty, high unemployment rates, and profound changes in societal norms fueled the despair and anguish often present in Joy Division's music.

The documentary also delves into the band's continuation as New Order after Curtis's passing, highlighting how they managed to evolve their music further and cope with the mammoth task of continuing their career without their central figure. It cleverly underscores the continuity of Joy Division's sonic legacy in New Order, and how Ian Curtis's spirit lives on in their music.

In conclusion, Joy Division - Under Review is a compelling, intricate, and respectful tribute to a band whose influence can still be felt in the music industry. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Joy Division or relatively new to their music, this film provides a wonderful deep dive into their haunting world.

By offering a detailed account of their journey, struggles, and triumphs, the film not only pays homage to Joy Division's importance as a band but also reaffirms their influential status in popular culture legacy. Coupled with the unforgettable music, authentic interviews, and powerful images, Joy Division - Under Review serves as a comprehensive guide to one of the most significant bands in rock history.