Ever since the back-to-back hits of “Straight Out Of Compton” (NWA) and “Bohemian Rhapsody” (Queen) and its Oscar success, rock biopics have had something of a big renaissance in recent years. While nothing has touched the heights of those two, not the Elton John film, “Rocketman,” and the upcoming “Bob Marley: One Love” doesn’t look like it’ll change the game in any major way, either way, Hollywood still keeps on trying. Next up in the rock biopic resurgence is “Back To Black,” a musical biopic about adored U.K. singer Amy Winehouse.
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The star of the picture, Marisa Abel, might be something of an unknown to American audiences. Still, those in the know know she’s the breakout sensation star of HBO’s terrific U.K.-set financial drama, “Industry,” which seems poised to blow up and be fully appreciated now that “Succession” is over.
And yes, that’s Abela is singing herself as Amy in the new “Back To Black” trailer and film, not something that many stars would attempt.
“Back To Black” is directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson from a script written by Matt Greenhalgh, following their successful collaboration on “Nowhere Boy” in 2009. The film stars Abela in the coveted lead role alongside Jack O’Connell (“Ferrari”), Eddie Marsan (“Fair Play”), and Lesley Manville (“Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris”).
“Back To Black” is a never-before-seen glimpse into Amy Winehouse’s early rise to fame and the release of her groundbreaking studio album, Back to Black. Told from Amy’s perspective, the film is an unapologetic look at the woman behind the phenomenon and the relationship that inspired one of the most legendary albums of all time.
The film was made with the full support of Universal Music Group and Sony Music Publishing.
Here’s Studio Canal’s synopsis for the film.
A celebration of the most iconic – and much missed – homegrown star of the 21st century, BACK TO BLACK tells the extraordinary tale of Amy Winehouse. Painting a vivid, vibrant picture of the Camden streets she called home and capturing the struggles of global fame, BACK TO BLACK honours Amy’s artistry, wit, and honesty, as well as trying to understand her demons. An unflinching look at the modern celebrity machine and a powerful tribute to a once-in-a-generation talent.
Studio Canal will release “Black To Black” on April 12, 2024. Focus Features will release the picture on May 10, 2024, in the U.S. Watch the first U.K. trailer below.