‘Back to Black’ Review – A Carefully Crafted Look Into The Artistry And Struggles Of A Legend Gone Too Soon

Synopsis: Singer Amy Winehouse’s tumultuous relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil inspires her to write and record the groundbreaking album “Back to Black.”

No one is without flaws. We’re all equipped with our fair share, however, there are some of us whose flaws are on full display for the world to see. Most of us can go the majority of our lives in relative anonymity with no one knowing about that bad habit or weird thing we do. On the other hand, there are those of us with elevated talents and skills or attractive faces or personalities that thrust them into the public eye. While celebrated by some, they are simultaneously torn down by others for the things that make them individuals. It could be something physical and out of their control that rocketed them into fame and attracted bullies and trolls. It could also be an unforeseen or underlying issue that is invisible even to them until it’s not. Either way, for whatever odd human reason, the bigger your light, the more some people want to dim it. Whether it’s the jealousy and insecurities of the angry mob or hate in their heart brought on by trauma, some just want to watch the world burn and it can get ugly. People can get hurt or lose their lives, but it was all just a joke, right?

“I ain’t no fuckin’ Spice Girl!”

We may not be going to rehab but we are going back in time. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, Back to Black is a carefully crafted look into the artistry and struggles of a legend gone too soon. It may not be Amy but this film is wonderfully melodic and gravely insightful. Focusing on what transpired and inspired one of the greatest albums of all time rather than a broad stroke of the life of Amy Winehouse, we are taken on an intimate and incredibly human journey. From eighteen to twenty-seven, from open mics to Grammy’s, this look at authenticity, addiction, and love is the Winehouse discography come to life. We watch a boyfriend become an ex once he deduces that ‘Strong Than Me’ is about him. We laugh with Amy as those who embody ‘F**k Me Pumps’ invade her space. Moreover, we feel the weight and emotion of the titular song as her whirlwind relationship with her future ex-husband, Blake slowly decays into an aggressively codependent one. While the film is about the music and legacy of the singer/songwriter, it is more than anything about who she was at her peak and what made her special.

It delves into her relationship with her father, grandmother, label, celebrity, and of course, Blake Fielder-Civil. Some will indeed find aspects of the film divisive. From early foreshadowing that could’ve been for storytelling purposes to how somewhat unscathed Fielder-Civil seems to come out in the process, to an ending that could be complete fiction, it’ll be interesting to see the fan response. I’m no expert on the ‘You Know I’m No Good’ singer, however, it is evident by the film that Amy had issues before she crossed paths with her shortlived marital partner. Nevertheless, he exacerbated both their struggles at multiple turns.

“I want people to hear my voice and forget their troubles…”

Led by a transformative performance by Marisa Abela, the essence of what made Amy Winehouse one of the first big stars of the 2000s is present and accounted for. Her honesty, raw emotion, understanding of the world around her, and soulful and jazzy influences combine to create timeless music. It’s as delightful and moving as it is heartbreaking. Her lust for life and real experiences set her apart from most. You’ve never quite seen someone wear their heart on their sleeve as much as this. As it transports us back to some of her most iconic and memorable moments, you remember that this bumpy journey is also a celebration. The biopic celebrates someone who changed music for the better in her short time and whose profound outlook and understanding were a gift and a curse. There are a few missteps in the storytelling and a subtle reach that I’m sure many will catch, but as the film walks a fine line between facts and artistry, it means no disrespect.

The themes of family and triumph play loud and proud throughout the tragic story. As we are reminded of what an actual tortured poet looks like, we are reminded of many things. We are reminded of the lasting influence of Winehouse, that the trials and tribulations of addiction care nothing about your career or status, and to check on your loved ones who may be struggling. Taylor-Johnson’s film looks fantastic. The wardrobe, hair, and makeup are perfect. The cinematography is beautiful at times and the the music cascades through each scene and melts in your ears. If you’re new to the life and sounds of Amy Winehouse or merely a casual fan, Back to Black is eye-opening and soul-stirring. For diehard fans, well, they will have a few things to say. Nevertheless, because of Marisa Abela’s incredible job of recreating the songs as Ms. Winehouse, this film should be seen in theaters to get the full effect. Its rewatchability is medium.

Pace & Pop

The pace may feel faster than expected for those who are diehard or day-one fans. As it quickly covers her initial rise to local stardom, what drove her to make the titular album and her untimely death, it will leave some fans wanting more. What popped for me was the singing voice of Marisa Abela. Not only did she have the looks and attitude that fully embodied her spirit, but she sang almost exactly like her. It’s truly impressive.

Characters & Chemistry

Starring: Marisa Abela, Jack O’Connell, Eddie Marsan, Leslie Manville

The push and pull, up and down love-infused chaos that jumps off the screen is because of the chemistry that Marisa Abela and Jack O’Connell cook up. As Amy Winehouse and Blake Fielder-Civil respectively, the duo effortlessly resurrected this complicated past giving both sides a fair shake. Abela’s transformation both personal and storywise are stunning to behold. Care and admiration clearly went into the curation of the role. And again, her vocal performance is almost spot on. O’Connell brings a special charm and flair to his role showcasing exactly why Amy fell for Blake.

Back to Black releases in theaters on May 17, 2024. Stay safe and check on your friends.

Rated: R Runtime: 2h 2m Director: Sam Taylor-Johnson Screenplay: Matt Greenhalgh Producers: Nicky Kentish Barnes, Debra Hayward, Alison Owen, Executive Producers: Ron Halpern, Anna Marsh, Joe Naftalin, Sam Taylor-Johnson Score: Nick Cave, Warren Ellis Director of Photography: Polly Morgan Editors: Laurence Johnson, Martin Walsh Costume Design: PC Williams