DVD Key Art for "Control"

“Control” is a biopic about Ian Curtis, vocalist and songwriter for the seminal British band Joy Division. Released in 2007, the film was directed by Anton Corbijn, who also photographed the band in its early days. The film takes its title from the band’s song “She’s Lost Control” which Curtis wrote about one of his clients who died of an epileptic seizure during his tenure as an employment agent. Curtis himself suffered from epilepsy and his distinct style of dancing onstage is thought to have been inspired by his seizures.

Stark and minimal like Joy Division’s music, this key art concept is black and white in keeping with Corbin’s decision to shoot the film in black and white. The title treatment sits on the edge of the black frame in which Curtis dances, yet just out of reach, mirroring his struggle to maintain control over his health, career, and personal life.