A new biopic titled Back to Black, which tells the story of the late singer Amy Winehouse, has not received a warm reception from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. The film directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and starring Marisa Abela as Winehouse, follows the singer’s rise to fame and tragic death at the age of 27 due to alcohol poisoning. The official logline from Focus Features describes the film as an exploration of Winehouse’s early days in Camden through the making of her groundbreaking album, Back to Black, and the tumultuous love story at the center of her life.
As of Thursday, Back to Black had a “rotten” rating of 36% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 104 reviews. Critics on the site noted that while the film’s sympathetic approach to Winehouse’s story is refreshing compared to tabloid treatment, the end result was considered disappointing. This biopic is not the first adaptation to smooth the edges off real people for the Hollywood treatment, but it aims to re-center Amy in her own story, according to the New York Times reviewer Alissa Wilkinson. While the film has its flaws, critics still commended Marisa Abela’s performance as Winehouse, praising her ability to capture the singer’s essence through looks, moods, utterances, and musical expressions.
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes had mixed reactions to the film, with some acknowledging the shortcomings in portraying Winehouse’s true pain and passion. Vanity Fair’s Richard Lawson questioned the decision to have Abela do her own singing in the biopic, suggesting that lip-syncing may have been a more authentic approach. Despite these criticisms, Variety film critic Owen Gleiberman praised Abela’s lead performance in the film, noting that she successfully embodies Winehouse in every aspect. Back to Black is, therefore, considered a worthwhile homage to the iconic artist’s music and legacy, even if it falls short in capturing the depth of her emotional struggles.
Amy Winehouse’s life was previously documented in the 2015 documentary Amy, which won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature. The release of Back to Black has reignited discussions surrounding Winehouse’s legacy and the impact of her music on the industry. The biopic delves into the singer’s personal struggles and the creative process behind her acclaimed album, Back to Black, which catapulted her to global fame. While the film may not have resonated with all critics, it offers audiences a chance to revisit Winehouse’s story and appreciate her contribution to the music world.
Despite the mixed reviews, Back to Black opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, giving fans an opportunity to experience Amy Winehouse’s story on the big screen. The film’s portrayal of the singer’s life and career, while not without its flaws, sheds light on the complexities of her journey and the impact of her music. Viewers interested in learning more about Winehouse’s legacy and the challenges she faced in the spotlight may find value in watching this biopic, regardless of the critical reception it has received. Overall, Back to Black serves as a tribute to Winehouse’s talent and artistry, showcasing the highs and lows of her life with honesty and reverence.
