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New Order StoryDirector: Michel Poulette Rating: MA 15+ 138 mins Warner One of the interesting things about the history of New Order is that it begins with the story of another band. 'New Order Story' naturally starts with Joy Division and its doomed frontman Ian Curtis before following the remaining three members - Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook and Stephen Morris - and their reconstruction into of the most influential British bands of all time. This well-paced DVD makes for good watching: the snappy editing, cool live performances and quality quotes from a range of interviewees results in this journey being compelling viewing for anyone with the slightest interest in New Order. The coldly wordy female narration becomes tedious towards the end, but initially contributes many thought-provoking ideas on the paradoxes of these anti-superstars and their intriguing (non) image. However, the highlights are the interviews: Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys admits to his jealousy when he first heard Blue Monday, Bono contributes his thoughts on Joy Division, and the band themselves explain how they felt about carrying on after Curtis's suicide. One golden moment is when Sumner is pushed regarding his lyrics and the meaning behind them, admitting "I don't wake up with a message for the world... unless I dig deep, perhaps sometimes I have got a message for the world." Each band member is given a voice to share their viewpoint about the journey, alongside other musos like Quincy Jones and DJ Pete Tong. The interviews are broken up with a number of classic video clips which display how masterfully New Order went about constructing their image, particularly with regard to their striking record covers constructed by artist Peter Saville. Their label boss and financial partner Tony Wilson, the brains behind Factory records, is allowed to speak and is often spoken about; especially about his poor financial decisions relating to his and the band's disasterous investment in the famous Hacienda nightclub. A number of lighter moments are added via a bizarre pretend game show in which all of the band members - as well other important figures in the band's life - are asked questions about New Order. Unfortunately, although only released on DVD now, 'New Order Story' was recorded in 1993 so it only covers the band up to 'Republic'. Therefore it leaves out the band's extended time off, the departure of keyboardist Gillian Gilbert and the band's triumphant return with 'Get Ready'; but it does include the cringeworthy scene of New Order playing the appropriately titled single Regret at the Baywatch beach. Yes, that does mean the most undeservedly over-exposed man in the world gets a shot in too (I dare not mention his name and add to the problem). Any history of New Order could hardly help but be varied and interesting without even really trying. 'New Order Story' is a well produced DVD that traces the journey of this important and mysterious band.  |
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