Robbie Williams’ new biopic, Better Man, has officially hit theaters, drawing attention with its R-rating that highlights a mature portrayal of the iconic singer’s journey to stardom. Directed by Michael Gracey, renowned for his acclaimed work on The Greatest Showman, the film chronicles the life of British pop sensation Robbie Williams, who rose to fame in the 1990s as a member of the popular group Take That. Upon its release in January 2025, Better Man garnered accolades for its gripping screenplay, captivating soundtrack, and a thoughtful exploration of both the triumphs and tribulations that marked Williams’ ascent to becoming one of the most celebrated British singers in history.
The film artfully weaves together elements of comedy, drama, and tragedy, all brought to life by a remarkable cast. However, its explicit themes and mature content place it in the R-rated category, offering a stark contrast to less intense music biopics. With an unconventional representation of the singer as a CGI chimp, some viewers may wonder about the film’s target audience. Nevertheless, it is crucial for parents to understand that Better Man’s rating serves as a strong warning for young audiences.
Better Man’s R Rating: A Closer Look at Content
Delving into the Darker Realities of Robbie Williams’ Life
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has assigned an R rating to Better Man due to its depiction of “drug use, pervasive language, sexual content, nudity, and some violence.”This classification signifies that the film is intended for mature audiences. Notably, the film showcases a significant level of profanity and strong language, alongside scenes that portray the struggles with alcoholism and a fair amount of sexual content. The narrative also touches upon sensitive matters such as mental health, bereavement, and abortion, potentially triggering distress among viewers.
The movie’s trailer hints at its unapologetically raw nature, featuring characters using profane language, including the F-word on multiple occasions, and a quick shot of Williams making an obscene hand gesture. Reports indicate that the F-word appears over 100 times in the film, accompanied by various slang terms. Some sequences address suicide attempts, underscoring the film’s focus on the more troubling aspects of Williams’ early life and career. Better Man is indeed a film that does not shy away from confronting difficult subjects, making it a potentially unsettling viewing experience.
Not Designed for Younger Audiences
A Parental Advisory: Avoiding Better Man for Kids
Robbie Williams has candidly discussed his own mental health challenges and battles with addiction during both his time with Take That and his eventual solo career. These themes are central to the storyline presented in Better Man. Notably portrayed as a CGI chimp, Williams navigates the complexities of his childhood, particularly after his parents’ divorce, and the immense pressure he felt to succeed in the public eye. Given the film’s serious engagements with topics like death and addiction, its R-rating becomes particularly justifiable.
Watch the Trailer Here
Watch the Trailer Here
Considering the substantial use of profanity and graphic depictions of violence, it is evident that Better Man is unsuitable for young viewers. While adults over the age of 18 may attend, they too might find some visuals distressing, particularly those depicting gore, substance abuse, and suicide attempts. Although Better Man offers a hauntingly profound look into the life and trials of one of Britain’s most accomplished artists, it is crucial for parents to refrain from allowing children under 18 to view this film.
Source: Independent
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