‘Better Man’ Review: An Engaging and Touching Musical Biopic Experience

The journey of Robbie Williams, transitioning from a prominent member of Take That to a hugely successful solo artist, is captivating in its own right. However, the addition of a CGI monkey portraying Williams gives this story a unique twist that has undoubtedly sparked conversations among audiences. The musical biopic, directed by Michael Gracey, presents an innovative and compelling narrative that deserves attention.

The film features Robbie Williams himself providing a voiceover, offering insights into his life and career. Particularly intriguing is the clarification of the tumultuous relationship he shared with Gary Barlow during his departure from Take That. While the concept of using a CGI monkey may seem unconventional, it surprisingly allows viewers to connect emotionally with Williams’ experiences in a way that traditional biopics often fail to achieve.

It’s a familiar tale in the music industry: the rise and fall of a beloved artist plagued by addiction—a staple theme in biographical films. However, *Better Man* distinguishes itself by utilizing the CGI monkey to vividly illustrate the pain and struggles associated with self-destructive behaviors. This portrayal makes the emotional weight of Williams’ story resonate more powerfully.

Throughout the film’s runtime of over two hours, the unconventional choice of a monkey as Williams’ avatar never feels out of place. Instead, it enhances the viewer’s connection to the character, allowing for a deeper investment in his well-being and personal journey.

Interestingly, the decision to feature a monkey stems from the notion that audiences may feel more compassion for animals than for people. This clever approach effectively softens the more scandalous aspects of Williams’ life; his wild experiences seem less shocking when embodied by his animated counterpart. As a viewer, I found myself more engaged with the storyline than I might have been otherwise.

A Colorful Blast of Musical Magic

Creating a successful movie musical in today’s landscape is no easy feat. Filmmakers often grapple with blending biographical content and musical performances while meeting audience expectations. *Better Man* masterfully strikes this balance, artfully interweaving the joyful musicality with the more troubling elements of Williams’ ascent to stardom.

The film features high-energy performances of Take That hits, seamlessly transitioning to Williams’ iconic solo tracks, such as “Angels.” The sheer brilliance of seeing this CGI incarnation of Williams navigate these classic songs is astonishing. The animation is so immersive that one quickly forgets they’re witnessing a depiction of a monkey rather than a human figure learning to navigate fame.

Having limited knowledge of Robbie Williams outside of my fandom for One Direction, I found the depth of his story enlightening. The film lays bare the darker chapters of his life while also presenting a narrative rich with hope. Williams courageously shares his experiences from his own viewpoint, revealing the complexities and challenges that come with fame. It’s a story that invites empathy, and surprisingly, we all find ourselves charmed by the animated manifestation of Robbie Williams.

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