Ian Curtis Biopic to Premier At Cannes

The forthcoming film of the life of Joy Division singer Ian Curtis will premier at the Cannes Film Festival this year, marking the 17th anniversary of his death.

The biopic, directed by renowned music video director Anton Corbijn, will have its first showing on May 17 at the festival, attended by members of U2, Depeche Mode and the band formed from the ashes of Joy Division, New Order.

There will also be a minute’s silence to commemorate the frontman, who committed suicide in 1980 at the age of just 23.

The film will star 24 Hour Party People’s Sam Riley as Curtis, with Oscar-nominated actress Samantha Morton taking on the role of his long-suffering wife, Deborah.

It is scheduled for general release in September.