How the CGI Monkey Effectively Enhances ‘Better Man’

If you’ve been deliberating whether to see the biopic of Robbie Williams titled Better Man, it’s time to put those thoughts to rest! This film chronicles Williams’ rise to stardom, but in a unique twist, it employs a CGI monkey representation of the artist, voiced by Jonno Davies, to narrate his journey. Surprisingly, this creative choice is not just entertaining, but also adds depth to the storytelling.

At first glance, a movie featuring a CGI monkey might not seem appealing. However, the film cleverly integrates this character into the narrative. Davies delivers a compelling performance, effectively capturing the essence of Williams through his monkey alter ego. More importantly, the monkey serves as a mirror reflecting society’s often unrealistic expectations of celebrities and their perceived obligations to perform.

Our relationship with celebrity culture often resembles a visit to a zoo, where we expect entertainers to be on display and ready to please at any moment. This expectation implies that performers should be able to “turn it on”regardless of their personal circumstances. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that celebrities are human too—they have off days and times when they prefer privacy and disengagement. This reality underlines the importance of empathy in our interactions with public figures.

What I found particularly compelling about the CGI monkey in Better Man is that it conveys this message without being overtly didactic. The film doesn’t hammer home its point; rather, it presents a subtle commentary on the nature of celebrity. The choice to utilize a CGI monkey feels organic, symbolizing how performers can sometimes be viewed as mere entertainers, devoid of their personal lives and struggles.

A Celebrity is Not Your Property

Often, we hear tales of celebrities being labeled as “rude” or unapproachable to fans. This sentiment raises critical questions about context: Was the celebrity at a professional function, or were they off-duty, enjoying time with family or friends while being interrupted? Understanding these nuances is essential, as failing to respect personal boundaries can exacerbate these situations.

Crucially, when performers are not officially “on the clock,” they owe nothing to their fans. The misconception that celebrities must be available at all times often results in unrealistic demands from their admirers. While supporting their careers is integral, it does not entitle fans to personal interactions, especially during private moments.

The metaphor of the celebrity as a “performing monkey”resonates deeply and has sparked significant discussion within cultural circles. The nuanced portrayal within Better Man encourages viewers to reflect not just on the film’s unique aesthetic but also on the broader discourse surrounding celebrity culture and our expectations of those in the public eye.