Released in select theaters on Christmas 2024, Better Man redefines the music biopic genre with an eccentric and provocative approach. Directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman), the $110 million production charts the meteoric rise, fall, and redemption of British pop icon Robbie Williams. However, the movie's boldest and most polarizing choice—representing Williams as an anthropomorphic monkey through cutting-edge Weta Digital effects—has sparked intense discussion among fans and critics alike. Is it a gimmick, or a profound metaphor for the pressures of fame?
By examining Williams' public persona, emotional vulnerabilities, and the film's innovative storytelling, Better Man transcends the tropes of conventional biopics and becomes a reflective, deeply personal exploration of identity.
The Genesis of an Unconventional Biopic
Michael Gracey's journey to creating Better Man began with 18 months of intimate interviews with Robbie Williams. These candid conversations form the foundation of the film, allowing Williams' narration to provide raw, unfiltered insight into his life. Gracey's decision to incorporate these interviews verbatim reflects his commitment to authenticity, giving audiences a direct connection to Williams' psyche.
The monkey motif, while initially jarring, emerges as a fitting metaphor. For decades, Williams felt like a performer trapped in a cage, constantly on display for public consumption. The tuxedo-clad monkey encapsulates his struggle to reconcile his private self with his public persona. The visual allusion to Planet of the Apes is no coincidence, as the film critiques the dehumanizing effects of celebrity culture.
Visual Spectacle and Symbolism
Collaborating with Weta Digital, known for Avatar and The Lord of the Rings, Better Man delivers stunning CGI that transforms Williams into a lifelike primate. The visuals are not merely eye candy but carry profound symbolic weight. Posters for the film—notably a recreation of Williams' 1997 album Life Thru a Lens—suggest a commentary on his public scrutiny. The monkey acts as a mirror, reflecting how Williams perceives himself in contrast to how the world sees him.
In a poignant scene, the monkey sits at a piano, performing a haunting rendition of “Angels” while surrounded by paparazzi. The surreal imagery underscores the loneliness and alienation Williams felt even at the height of his fame.
A Musical Reimagining
The soundtrack is a highlight of Better Man, with Williams re-recording hits like “Let Me Entertain You” and “She's the One” to suit the emotional tone of each scene. A new song, “Forbidden Road,” adds depth to the narrative, its lyrics capturing the tension between longing for freedom and the weight of expectation. This reimagining of his discography aligns perfectly with the film's themes, breathing new life into beloved tracks.
Emotional Depth and Performances
English actor Jonno Davies (Hunters) delivers a remarkable motion-capture performance as the younger Robbie, capturing the singer's vulnerabilities with precision. Williams himself provides the voice for his older self, creating a seamless blend of past and present. This duality amplifies the film's exploration of identity, as viewers witness a man confronting the boy he once was.
The film's emotional core lies in its unflinching portrayal of fame's toll. Williams candidly reflects on his battles with addiction, self-doubt, and the constant pressure to perform. By the film's end, his isolation is palpable, leaving viewers with a haunting understanding of the human cost of stardom.
Better Man is a daring cinematic experiment that defies the conventions of the music biopic genre. By blending surreal imagery, cutting-edge technology, and raw emotional honesty, Michael Gracey crafts a film that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. The choice to depict Robbie Williams as a monkey may seem absurd, but it ultimately serves as a powerful metaphor for his struggles with identity and fame.
Far from being a mere gimmick, this audacious creative decision elevates Better Man to a poignant meditation on the price of living in the spotlight. For those willing to embrace its eccentricity, the film offers a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.
Personal Impressions
As a fan of both music and cinema, I found Better Man to be a bold and refreshing departure from the standard biopic formula. The monkey metaphor, while unconventional, resonated deeply, offering a unique lens through which to view Robbie Williams' life. The film's emotional honesty, coupled with its stunning visuals, left a lasting impression.
That said, the movie's surreal approach may alienate some viewers expecting a more traditional narrative. But for those willing to look past its eccentricities, Better Man delivers a rich, introspective journey that lingers long after the credits roll.
What do you think of Better Man's unconventional approach to storytelling? Do you believe the monkey metaphor effectively captures the challenges of fame? Share your thoughts below!
