'Control' is based on the life of Ian Curtis who committed suicide at the tender age of 23 by hanging. His role was played by newcomer Sam Riley. Riley said he was "working in a warehouse in Leeds folding shirts" when he was cast for the role.Film director Anton Corbijn said the fresh face had brought "an innocence and freshness that I was hoping for but never thought I would find".
"This is a very hard role for anybody to play, because it is very hard to fit in somebody's shoes who has become an icon in many people's eyes."
"I can't think of the movie without Sam, to be very honest - I think he gave everything to that role.
"It was his first film, it was my first film - in a way we had nothing to lose."
The story describes Curtis' short life, his struggle with epilepsy, and his love for his wife and a Belgian mistress he meets while on tour.
Riley said his research for the role of Ian Curtis involved studying epilepsy and it's effects, as well as watching hours of footage of Curtis's live performances.
"I spent a lot of time in the mirror doing dance moves. I tried to play him as fairly normal bloke, with an exceptional talent.
"He was an incredibly enigmatic performer..unusual, and uncomfortable in a way. And a fantastic lyricist for his age, for any age."
The surviving members of Joy Division, who soon after Curtis' death formed the hugely successful 'New Order', have seen the movie and according to Corbijn, they all loved it.
"They hardly ever agree on anything together, but they have agreed that they all love the film."
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