Sam Taylor-Johnson

A biopic of troubled British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse tracking her meteoric rise and very public downfall opens in U.K. cinemas today amid a swirl of controversy.

Even before its release, "Back to Black" has attracted backlash with criticism ranging from the casting to concerns it could exploit Winehouse's story.

"Back to Black" is an upcoming biographical movie about the life of British singer-songwriter Amy  Winehouse, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson. The main role will be played by the actress Marisa Abela. The first trailer has been released online.

British actress Marisa Abela will portray Amy Winehouse in a biopic about the late singer, production and distribution company Studiocanal has said.

Called "Back to Black" and directed by British filmmaker Sam Taylor-Johnson, the movie will focus on Winehouse's "vibrant years living in London in the early aughts and her intense journey to fame."

"Fifty Shades of Grey" director Sam Taylor-Johnson is set to bring an Amy Winehouse biopic to the screen after years of thwarted attempts.

The film, expected to be called "Back to Black," will explore the rise and tragic death of the singer, who was a close friend of Taylor-Johnson. A script is reported to be circulating with casting in early stages.