Before ‘Back to Black’: 3 music biopics that fell short… and 3 that didn’t
Controversy surrounding the Amy Winehouse biopic has people wondering: are there any music biopics that got it right?
Pop Culture & Art |
April 04, 2024
“Back to Black” director Sam Taylor-Johnson recently defended the upcoming biopic after fans were angered at her choice to make it, and were further disappointed in lead actor Marisa Abela’s performance in early previews of the film.
The release of biopics is a buzz-generating phenomena, often prompting debates and dividing fan circles and critics alike. Here are three that faced immense backlash:
1) Bob Marley: One Love (2024)
Despite its success at the box office, possibly attributed to the lead actor Kingsley Ben-Adir's perf
2) Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Many reviews claimed the film’s success piggy-backed off its lead actor’s performance, with IndieWire calling it “royally embarrassing” and The Spectator describing it as a “succession of pre-digested cliches.” Fans and critics were also gravely disappointed in the film’s sanitised portrayal of the singer’s love life.
3) Nina (2016)
Crafting a biopic about a deceased singer without their consent is one thing, but going against the wishes of their entire
While Saldana faced intense scrutiny for agreeing to play Simone, her daughter, Lisa Simone Kelly, defended the actor, instead attributing the criticism to the writers.
Despite the wide range of widely hated biopics, here are some that were generally well-loved.
1) Walk the Line (2005)
The narrative of Johnny Cash follows a more conventional biopic route: a tumultuous childhood under the shadow of an angry father, and a meteoric rise to musical stardom marred by substance abuse and turbulent romantic entanglements. However, Joaquin P
2) Control (2007)
Photographer Anton Corbijn captures the brief yet intense life of Joy Division singer Ian Curtis, portrayed by Sam Riley. Curtis, married at 19 and a father, wrestles with depression and epilepsy while to
3) I’m Not There (2007)
Critics have applauded director Todd Haynes’ ability to encapsulate the multifaceted life of Bob Dylan in a single film. This biopic features a diverse cast including Cate Blanchet
Load Next Story