Amy Winehouse left a lasting mark on music with her soulful voice, emotional lyrics, and unforgettable style. Her rise and tragic fall touched millions around the world. Now, in 2024, a new biopic called “Back to Black” is hitting theaters, promising to tell Amy’s story in a fresh and powerful way.
But the question on everyone’s mind is:
Who plays Amy Winehouse in the new movie?
The answer is Marisa Abela — a rising British actress making waves with her transformation into the iconic singer.
In this blog post, we’ll explore:
- Who is Marisa Abela?
- Why was she chosen to play Amy Winehouse?
- How did she prepare for the role?
- What is the “Back to Black” movie about?
- When is the release date?
- What critics and fans are saying
- Where to watch the new Amy Winehouse movie
- Other actors in the cast
- Why biopics about musicians are trending in Hollywood
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the actress playing Amy Winehouse and what to expect from the film.
Who Is Marisa Abela? The Actress Playing Amy Winehouse
Marisa Abela is a British actress best known for her roles in the TV series Industry and Cobra. Born in 1996 in Brighton, England, she has been in the entertainment industry for a few years but is now becoming a household name thanks to her performance as Amy Winehouse.
Quick Facts About Marisa Abela:
- Birth Year: 1996
- Nationality: British
- Famous Roles: Yasmin in HBO’s Industry, Ellie in Cobra
- Education: Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)
While she’s not a singer by profession, Marisa went through intense vocal training to embody Amy’s powerful voice. She also underwent a complete transformation in appearance — from Amy’s bold eyeliner to her signature beehive hair.
Why Was Marisa Abela Chosen for the Role?
The director of Back to Black, Sam Taylor-Johnson, said she was looking for someone who could not only act but channel Amy’s spirit. Marisa Abela was chosen after a long casting process. Her deep commitment, emotional depth, and willingness to dive into Amy’s story impressed the filmmakers.
According to interviews, Abela said,
“I wanted to honor Amy. This is not just a role for me—it’s a responsibility.”
How Did Marisa Abela Prepare to Play Amy Winehouse?
To portray such an iconic and complicated artist, Marisa Abela went through:
1. Vocal Training
Though Marisa doesn’t have a music background, she trained hard to sing Amy’s songs herself in the movie. Yes, she sings in her own voice!
2. Studying Amy’s Life
She read Amy’s letters, watched interviews, and spoke to people who knew Amy personally.
3. Physical Transformation
From tattoos to costumes and hairstyles, the movie aimed for accuracy. Marisa spent hours in makeup to recreate Amy’s signature look.
What Is the “Back to Black” Movie About?
“Back to Black” is named after Amy Winehouse’s Grammy-winning album. The film tells her life story—from her beginnings in North London to her global success, personal struggles, and tragic death in 2011.
Key Themes in the Movie:
- Her close bond with her father, Mitch Winehouse
- Her intense relationship with ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil
- Her struggle with addiction and fame
- Her deep passion for music
Unlike the 2015 documentary Amy, this is a scripted drama that focuses on the human side of Amy Winehouse, not just the headlines.
When Does the Amy Winehouse Movie Come Out?
Release Date (USA):
April 12, 2024
The movie had an early release in the UK on April 5, but U.S. audiences can now watch it in theaters starting April 12.
Where Can You Watch the Amy Winehouse Movie?
Right now, Back to Black is showing in select theaters across the U.S. Soon, it will be available on streaming platforms.
Expected Streaming Platforms (Coming Soon):
- Peacock or Amazon Prime Video (TBA)
- Likely to be available for digital rental on YouTube, Apple TV, and Vudu
Keep an eye out for announcements on streaming release dates!
What Are Critics and Fans Saying?
Early reviews for Back to Black are mixed but highlight Marisa Abela’s strong performance.
Critics Say:
- “Abela disappears into the role of Winehouse.” – The Guardian
- “A haunting portrait of a lost star.” – Variety
- “The film plays it safe, but the lead actress shines.” – Rolling Stone
Fans on Social Media:
- “She is Amy. I got goosebumps!”
- “So glad they didn’t use AI or CGI—she sang it all herself!”
Who Else Is in the Cast of the Amy Winehouse Movie?
Here are some of the key cast members:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Jack O’Connell | Blake Fielder-Civil (Amy’s ex-husband) |
| Eddie Marsan | Mitch Winehouse (Amy’s father) |
| Juliet Cowan | Janis Winehouse (Amy’s mother) |
| Lesley Manville | Cynthia Winehouse (Amy’s grandmother) |
The film focuses heavily on Amy’s relationships and how they shaped her music and life.
Why Are Music Biopics So Popular Right Now?
The success of music biopics like:
- Bohemian Rhapsody (Freddie Mercury)
- Elvis
- Rocketman (Elton John)
- Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody
…shows that audiences are hungry for stories about real music legends. These movies blend nostalgia, music, and emotion—making them box office hits.
And now, Back to Black joins that list, shining a light on Amy Winehouse’s raw talent and tragic beauty.
Final Thoughts: Marisa Abela as Amy Winehouse — A Star Is Born
So, who plays Amy Winehouse in the new movie?
The answer is clear: Marisa Abela delivers a breakout performance that is heartfelt and honest.
Whether you’re a lifelong Amy Winehouse fan or discovering her music for the first time, Back to Black offers a powerful experience. And Marisa Abela’s portrayal reminds us that behind every headline is a human story worth telling.
