Imagine a biopic where the star is not just human but a CGI chimpanzee. This is the reality in “Better Man,” where Robbie Williams' life story is reimagined in a way that defies convention. Directed by Michael Gracey, this film takes the viewer on a wild ride through the highs and lows of Williams' career, using a unique visual metaphor that has both baffled and captivated critics.
The Concept: From the outset, “Better Man” announces its intentions with a CGI Robbie Williams, voiced by the man himself but animated into a chimpanzee. This audacious choice might seem like a gimmick, but as Ian Sandwell from Digital Spy notes, “it's one of the least remarkable aspects” once you dive into the film's heart. The narrative begins with a young Robbie, already showing the vulnerability and hunger for fame that would define his career.
Critical Reception: Critics have been generous with their praise, highlighting the film's originality. The Independent finds it easier to digest the harsh realities of Williams' life through this surreal lens, while Empire Magazine dubs it “the most batshit music biopic” since Todd Haynes' “Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story.” Slant Magazine appreciates the balance between “the stupid and the profound,” suggesting a film that's both entertaining and insightful.
Narrative and Performance: The storytelling in “Better Man” is not without its clichés, as the Wall Street Journal points out, but the film's energy and creativity overshadow these. Jonno Davies' performance, captured through motion capture, conveys Williams' emotional spectrum from cheeky entertainer to a man battling his demons. The script, while indulging in familiar tropes, offers moments of genuine introspection about fame, addiction, and redemption.
Visual and Musical Feast: Michael Gracey, known for “The Greatest Showman,” brings a flair for spectacle, with musical numbers that are both a nod to Williams' flamboyant performances and a testament to the director's vision. The choice of songs, reimagined for the film, adds layers to the narrative, turning each sequence into a commentary on Robbie's life stages.
Philosophical Insights: “Better Man” isn't just about the spectacle; it probes into what it means to be human, or in this case, a human portrayed as a chimp. It's a visual exploration of identity, self-perception, and the masks we wear for the world. This film dares to ask, “What does it mean to be famous when you feel like a performing animal?”
“Better Man” is a testament to the power of cinema to surprise and move us, even when the subject is as familiar as Robbie Williams. It's a bold, if not always perfect, venture into how we tell stories about celebrities, making us question the nature of fame and humanity itself. As it swings into UK cinemas on Boxing Day, it promises to leave audiences both entertained and introspective.
My Impressions
The audacity of portraying Robbie Williams as a chimp could have backfired spectacularly, but instead, it adds a layer of charm and depth to his story. The film occasionally falls into the biopic trap of formulaic storytelling, yet its heart beats with sincerity. Jonno Davies' performance, combined with Williams' voiceovers, creates a poignant portrayal of a man who's both an icon and an everyman. While the visual effects might initially distract, they soon become a poignant metaphor for the dehumanizing aspects of fame.
Does the unique approach of using CGI to depict a real-life figure enhance or detract from the authenticity of their story? Share your thoughts below.
