The recently premiered biographical movie ‘Back to Black’, which captures the life of the iconic Amy Winehouse, has stirred reactions among those who knew her personally, including her close friend Tyler James.
Portraying the late singer in the UK theaters is actress Marisa Abela, under the direction of Sam Taylor-Johnson.Although the movie has attracted attention, it has been met with criticism from Tyler James, who shared a profound connection with Amy.
Expressing his discomfort, Tyler finds the film to be “triggering,” bringing back painful memories associated with Amy’s struggles.
Discover more insights below…Tyler voiced his critiques to The Times Magazine, stressing that the film fell short in portraying Amy’s drug addiction and the associated agony.
“The film avoids the uncomfortable. I didn’t like it, and it was hugely triggering for me,” Tyler commented, revealing the emotional toll the viewing had on him.
Tyler and Amy became acquaintances during their formative years at the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London, and according to Tyler, the movie places undue emphasis on Amy’s tumultuous relationship with ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil, enacted by Jack O’Connell.
He speculated on Amy’s reaction to the portrayal, confident in her genuine character and sharp intellect, which were aspects he felt were undervalued in the movie.
An emotionally intense screening led Tyler to suggest that it would have been prudent to watch the film alongside a mental health professional, given the vivid reminders of Amy’s darkest times.
“I couldn’t sleep Friday night or Saturday night,” he admitted, highlighting the lingering effects of anxiety and depression from that period in his life.
In his view, Amy yearned for simplicity and normalcy in her life, a desire overshadowed by her tragic passing from accidental alcohol poisoning at the tender age of 27.
American audiences can anticipate the release of Back to Black in the United States on May 17, with the trailer currently available for viewing.
FAQs about ‘Back to Black’ and Amy Winehouse’s Life
- Who plays Amy Winehouse in the ‘Back to Black’ movie? Marisa Abela portrays Amy Winehouse in the film.
- What did Tyler James think about the movie? Tyler James found the movie to be “triggering” and felt it neglected important aspects of Amy’s life and suffering.
- What was Tyler James’ relationship with Amy Winehouse? Tyler James was Amy Winehouse’s close friend and former housemate; they met at 12-years-old.
- What does Tyler believe Amy Winehouse would have wanted from life? Tyler believes all Amy wanted was a “nice normal life.”
- When is ‘Back to Black’ slated for release in the United States? The movie is set for release on May 17 in the United States.
Conclusion
The film ‘Back to Black,’ aiming to tribute the tumultuous life of Amy Winehouse, has raised conflicting sentiments, particularly from those who were intimately connected with the singer. Tyler James’s remarks provide a personal viewpoint that questions the narrative and focus of the biopic, shedding light on the complexities of revisiting the past through cinematic storytelling. The film’s upcoming release in the United States will expose a wider audience to Amy’s story and undoubtedly evoke further discussion on her legacy and its portrayal.