‘Back to Black’, a biopic about the late singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse starring Marisa Abela, has been met with controversy and criticism from fans and critics alike.
The film, which promises to chart Winehouse’s intense journey to fame, has been criticised for potentially exploiting Winehouse’s turbulent later years and sensationalising the more tragic elements of her life.
Concerns were raised even before the trailer’s release, with set images of Abela portraying Winehouse in distress causing backlash on social media. Winehouse fans are notoriously protective of the singer’s legacy – a response to the legacy media’s harsh treatment of her during her life. Winehouse, known for her unique style and significant influence on artists like Adele and Lady Gaga, faced constant media scrutiny over her personal struggles.
The film raises questions about the authenticity of biopics and the fine line between respectful portrayal and exploitation. Critics compare it to the final season of The Crown which faced similar criticisms. Some argue that the film is unnecessary, given the existence of previous documentaries like Asif Kapadia’s Amy and the BBC’s Reclaiming Amy.
Director Sam Taylor-Johnson’s involvement offers some hope for an authentic portrayal, given her previous success with the John Lennon biopic Nowhere Boy. Taylor-Johnson reportedly knew Winehouse personally, adding a potential layer of insight to the film.
However, the casting of Abela, who doesn’t closely resemble Winehouse, and the involvement of Winehouse’s father, Mitch, have raised concerns. Mitch Winehouse, who opposed Kapadia’s documentary and was involved in other projects like a hologram tour and a Broadway musical about his daughter, might influence the film’s narrative, fans fear.
The film’s release comes at a time when biopics of female celebrities facing hardship are popular, yet there’s a worry that Back to Black could overshadow Winehouse’s talent and struggles with systematic abuse and mental illness, focusing instead on the more sensational aspects of her life.
Back to Black is set to release on 12 April in the UK and on 10 May in the US. The New Zealand release date is not yet available.
In all fairness, they TRIED to make her go to rehab but she said no no no.
Amy was also an AshkeNAZI J*****, and an arrogant one at that!
Many households do not miss this negative element that was influencing their teen daughters in the home…
Now we have to concentrate efforts at ridding the world of Hip Hop and Gangsta-Rap that divides and polarises the races…!
But, we ALLLLL know who is behind that; ZOG!