Back to Black: On the red carpet with the cast and creatives at the London premiere

Amy Winehouse was one of a kind; how much she meant to so many people, and the inedible mark she left on music and our culture is hard to overstate. Any film wanting to capture her story is certainly setting itself a tall order.

Back to Black from Sam Taylor-Johnson is the new biopic aiming to do just that. Striking a balance between paying tribute to her talent and legacy, while also portraying with authenticity her struggles with addiction and relentless pursuit by the press, the narrative is very much told from her perspective via her words, lyrics and songs, her falling in love forming the binding thread.

Industry‘s Marisa Abela holds nothing back in her fearless incarnation of the iconic singer-songwriter, while Jack O’Connell brings serious swagger to her much-maligned beau Blake Fielder-Civil. An undoubted highlight is Leslie Manville as her grandmother Cynthia, their beautiful relationship and how Winehouse looked up to her as her style icon and inspiration, becoming an anchoring element in her otherwise tumultuous story. While the film doesn’t shy away from depicting Winehouse’s descent into addiction, some such scenes can be difficult to watch, so painfully aware we are as an audience that the exploitation and insatiable appetite for images of her during her most vulnerable moments were in large part responsible for her downfall.

Despite some imperfections in its execution, it’s impossible not to come away from the movie humming those earworm tracks, eager to revisit her short but powerful back catalogue to hear those unmistakable soulful vocals and hit the streets of Camden where she was so alive, the memory of her blinding singularity made bittersweet only by the tragedy of a talent taken from us too soon.

The stars and creators of the movie hit the red carpet for the film’s premiere in London’s Leicester Square. Abela spoke about taking on the role of the famed singer, emphasising the film’s aim to honour Winehouse’s legacy through her music, words and story. She highlighted the emotional journey, the celebratory focus on Winehouse’s achievements and praised the supportive collaboration with director Taylor-Johnson and her co-stars, especially noting the epic experience of recreating Glastonbury.

Taylor-Johnson gave some insight into directing the movie and the importance of experiencing it in cinemas for its visual and auditory impact. She reflected on her fluctuating favourite songs and scenes, and the joy of filming the love story.

O’Connell talked about the commitment to authenticity in the movie, influenced by Winehouse’s genuine artistry and lyrics. He shared highlights such as filming in Camden and other key London locations in her story, and expressed pride in honouring her cultural impact.

Eddie Marsan chatted about taking on the role of Mitch, Amy’s father, and how much he loved singing with Abela, his initial nervousness and the hard work that went into the movie. He praised the biopic as a brilliant tribute to Winehouse and the importance of sympathy for those struggling with addiction and their families.

Sam Buchanan chatted to us about his role as Nick Shymansky, Winehouse’s manager and friend. He highlighted the deep connection he gained to Winehouse’s music and lyrics through the role, praised Abela’s portrayal of Winehouse and reflected on the balance the film strikes between celebrating her talent and addressing her struggles. He also touched on the challenges of portraying sensitive moments, the complexity of addiction and fame and the ongoing need for kindness in the media landscape.

Screenwriter Matt Greenhalgh discussed his immediate fear and excitement upon being approached to write the Amy Winehouse biopic. He shared his approach of crafting the narrative from her perspective, using her words and lyrics, to authentically represent her legacy and struggles, particularly with addiction. Greenhalgh praised Abela’s compelling portrayal of Winehouse, and her dedication to the role, predicting her future stardom. He underscored the timeliness and relevance of the film, aiming to introduce Winehouse’s story to a new generation.

Producer Alison Owen spoke about wanting to honour Winehouse’s musical genius rather than her tragic legacy. She shared how they returned to her music and lyrics for an authentic portrayal, aiming to let audiences experience Winehouse’s perspective, highlighting her relationships, especially with Blake and her grandmother. Owen also touched on the cast’s exceptional performances and the film’s critique of paparazzi culture, hoping for a more respectful treatment of celebrities today.

 

Juliet Cowan detailed the in-depth research she went into to portray Winehouse’s mother, reflecting on Abela’s remarkable performance as Winehouse and the familial bond formed on set.

Musicians Ade Omotayo and Dale Davis shared their experiences working with Winehouse, reflecting on the magical times and the privilege of knowing her. They highlighted the singer’s unparalleled artistry and shared how they were curious about the biopic’s portrayal.

Sarah Bradbury

Back to Black is released nationwide on 12^th April 2024.

Watch the trailer for Back to Black here: