In the world of cinema, biopics often follow predictable patterns, which can drain their intrigue. Yet, every so often, a film comes along that refreshes the genre. Better Man, directed by Michael Gracey – known for The Greatest Showman – stands out as a bold and inventive biopic. This film is an exploration of the evolution of British pop icon Robbie Williams, presented with a captivating visual flair reminiscent of musical videos. Despite its lengthy runtime, the film’s heartfelt narrative and vibrant sequences kept me thoroughly engaged.
Before diving into the film, my knowledge of Better Man was limited to the unique portrayal of Robbie Williams as an anthropomorphic chimp. At first glance, this creative choice seemed puzzling. However, as Williams narrates his journey, we understand that this depiction reflects how he perceives himself. This quirky approach may initially be off-putting, but the film soon reveals Williams’ struggles with self-image and clinical depression as his inner critic manifests in various forms, complicating his path to fame.
Better Man: An Impressive Musical Spectacle
Musical Numbers & Robbie Williams’ Unique Portrayal Create an Immersive Experience
The film prompts audiences to engage without prior knowledge of Robbie Williams’ life story. It chronicles his journey from the boy band Take That to solo superstardom, mirroring the rise and fall common to many musical acts. Viewers witness Williams grappling with his father’s absence and how his craving for fame spiraled into substance abuse. Through its storytelling, Better Man shines a light on his humanity, revealing both his vulnerabilities and the impact of his fame on personal relationships.
Robbie Williams is portrayed as a complex figure who elicits both sympathy and frustration. His youthful desire for recognition stems from a need to understand his father’s choices. His name change from Robert to Robbie, facilitated by Take That’s manager Nigel Martin-Smith, symbolizes his desire to step away from his true self and embrace the persona expected by the public.
The film deftly captures the transition Williams undergoes before stepping onto the stage, a shift from a disheartened young man to a confident performer. Better Man does not shy away from addressing the darker aspects of celebrity life, leveraging Williams’ representation as a CGI chimp to delve into deeper psychological themes. This innovative treatment challenges conventional biopic narratives and invites viewers to ponder the real-life struggles of its subject.
Further elevating the film’s narrative are spectacular musical sequences. One standout moment features Williams and Nicole Appleton (Raechelle Banno) performing a duet of “She’s the One”against a picturesque backdrop. The film’s choreography, combined with Erik A. Wilson’s artful cinematography, creates an enchanting and romantic atmosphere that showcases their passionate connection. However, this bliss is poignantly juxtaposed with a montage revealing the bittersweet realities that follow, adding emotional weight to the scene.
YouTube Link to Trailer
Moments depicting Take That’s ascent to fame are crafted with the flair of a vibrant music video, demonstrating impeccable costume design, choreography, and a keen eye for the city’s dynamic landscape. This approach transforms the narrative from one that could easily succumb to monotony into an exhilarating viewing experience. Williams’ ongoing fear of being perceived as a fraud permeates the film, grounding the glamour in palpable human experience.
While Better Man boasts spectacular creativity, drawing parallels to innovative projects like Piece by Piece, which illustrated Pharrell’s story through a LEGO lens, it offers a richer depth that transcends mere novelty. However, one criticism lies in its extensive runtime; the second half occasionally drags due to repetitive depictions of Williams’ struggles with addiction, which could have been more concisely portrayed.
Despite this minor setback, the film remains a captivating composition that intertwines an engaging narrative with striking visuals and impressive musical numbers. Upon reflection, I found myself wishing I had experienced Better Man sooner—a testament to its powerful storytelling. This unconventional biopic, featuring an animated chimp as Robbie Williams, surprised me with its emotional resonance, and I encourage audiences to discover this extraordinary cinematic achievement.
Better Man arrives in theaters nationwide on January 10, with a runtime of 134 minutes and an R rating for drug use, strong language, sexual content, nudity, and scenes of violence.
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