The controversial documentary about the life and death of singer Amy Winehouse has been honored by the European Film Academy, according to the BBC on December 13.

Amy Winehouse died in 2011 from alcohol poisoning. Photo: usmusic

Amy, a film directed by Asif Kapadia, was voted “Best Documentary” at the European Film Awards held on December 12th in Berlin. The award was established by the European Film Academy in 1988 to promote films from the region.

The film Amy includes previously unreleased archival footage documenting Amy Winehouse’s growth and fame, as well as many unreleased songs.

The film was heavily criticized by Winehouse’s own father, Mitch Winehouse, for portraying the singer’s family in a negative light.

In April, Mitch bluntly told the media that the film was “completely untrue and a serious violation of privacy.”

Film director Amy, Asif Kapadia. Photo: EPA

The film contains audio recordings of conversations between Winehouse and her parents, friends, and ex-husband, but these were not released without the consent of those involved.

Furthermore, the film condemns the Winehouse family for abandoning her during her most difficult times, while her relatives stated they did everything they could to help her.

Amy Winehouse, born September 14, 1983, is a singer and songwriter in the R&B, soul, and jazz genres. Her debut album, Frank, released in 2003, was critically acclaimed and received a Mercury Prize nomination.

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She is recognized as an influential artist in the British female singer and soul music scene, contributing to the revival of British music.

Amy Winehouse married music producer Fielder Civil in 2007. However, the two frequently argued and quarreled, which was one of the reasons she became entangled in alcohol and drug use.

Amy is a singer and songwriter specializing in R&B, soul, and jazz. (Image: usmusic)

The “Best European Film” award went to the film Youth.

In addition to the “Lifetime Achievement” award, Charlotte Rampling was awarded “Best Actress” for her role in the film 45 Years.

Veteran actor Michael Caine received an “Honorable Mention” and also won the “Best Actor” award for his role in Youth.

“I haven’t won any awards in Europe in 50 years. And now I’ve received two awards in one evening. It feels strange because usually I just sit in the audience and applaud others,” Caine said.

The film Youth, starring American actors Paul Dano and Harvey Keitel, also helped Paolo Sorrentino win the “Best Director” award.

Charlotte Rampling (left) and Michael Caine receive two awards at the European Film Awards. Photo: EPA