By all accounts, last year’s series of open-air screenings at Spinningfields was a big success, helped along by the handy provision of popcorn, picnic hampers and deckchairs. So it’s great to see the series returning tomorrow, Thursday 20 May, with Control:

The Screenfields film season launches with the biography of local lad and Joy Division frontman, Ian Curtis. For Joy Division and New Order fans everywhere, the film charts Joy Division’s rise to success, their relationship with Factory Records and the personal turmoils of Ian himself. Screened to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Curtis’ death, this is a must-see for anyone passionate about the Manchester music scene. Stars Sam Riley and Samantha Morton.

And, er, afterwards you can get two-for-one entry into some place called FAC251?

Tenuous asides aside, Screenfields is the kind of free public event that Manchester needs more of – especially with the likes of Leon, Spirited Away, The Quiet Man and The Italian Job scheduled in for future screenings. But what better way to kick off this year’s season than with a depressing Manchester-centred film? It begins at 8.30pm.