Better Man Movie: A Bold Take on Robbie Williams’ Life

“Better Man,” directed by Michael Gracey, is a 2024 musical biopic that delves into the life of British pop icon Robbie Williams. The film stands out by portraying Williams as a CGI chimpanzee, a creative choice symbolizing his self-perception as a “performing monkey” in the entertainment industry.

Plot Overview

The narrative chronicles Williams’ journey from his early days in the boy band Take That to his successful solo career, highlighting personal struggles with addiction and the pressures of fame. The use of a CGI chimpanzee, performed via motion capture by Jonno Davies and voiced by Williams, adds a unique layer to the storytelling, reflecting the artist’s internal battles and public persona.

Critical Reception

“Better Man” has garnered mixed reviews:

• Vulture describes it as “the craziest musical of the year,” noting its blend of traditional biopic elements with extravagant musical sequences.
• The Times criticizes the film’s CGI portrayal, calling it a “one-note joke” that overshadows the depth of Williams’ life story.
• Empire Online praises the film as “an absolute blast,” highlighting its audacious approach to the biopic genre.

Controversies

The film faced challenges, notably the disqualification of its original song, “Forbidden Road,” from Oscar consideration due to similarities with Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name.”

“Better Man” offers an unconventional portrayal of Robbie Williams’ life, using innovative storytelling techniques to capture the complexities of fame and personal identity. Its unique approach has sparked both acclaim and criticism, making it a notable entry in the musical biopic genre.

FAQs

1. Why is Robbie Williams depicted as a CGI chimpanzee in “Better Man”?
   • The CGI chimpanzee represents Williams’ self-view as a “performing monkey,” symbolizing his feelings of being less evolved and the pressures of the entertainment industry.
2. Who directed “Better Man”?
   • Michael Gracey, known for “The Greatest Showman,” directed the film.
3. What aspects of Robbie Williams’ life does the film cover?
   • The film explores his rise to fame with Take That, his solo career, and personal struggles, including battles with addiction.
4. How has the film been received by critics?
   • Reception is mixed, with some praising its creativity and others criticizing the CGI portrayal.
5. What happened with the film’s original song, “Forbidden Road”?
   • “Forbidden Road” was disqualified from Oscar consideration due to its resemblance to an existing song by Jim Croce.
6. When was “Better Man” released?
   • The film premiered in 2024, with its U.S. release on December 25 and a wider release in January 2025.

From Pathostheatre