Robbie Williams has once again made headlines with his unconventional biopic, Better Man, which premiered on November 27, 2024, and is currently garnering significant acclaim, holding a 92% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Michael Gracey, renowned for his work on The Greatest Showman, the film offers fans and newcomers alike a whimsical yet poignant look at the life of one of Britain’s most celebrated pop stars.
What sets Better Man apart is its bizarre and charming decision to portray Williams as a CGI chimpanzee, seamlessly combining humor and depth to reflect his personal struggles with fame and identity. Williams himself admitted, "I fing hated the name Robbie, but it was the best thing Nigel did for me. Robbie became a character – something I could hide behind,” illustrating his complex relationship with his own persona.
Throughout the film, viewers are invited to experience Williams’ tumultuous rise to fame, his battle with addiction, and the intense pressures of being at the top of the entertainment industry. The narrative is enriched with musical numbers featuring new takes on some of his biggest hits, alongside original compositions, providing not just entertainment but also insight. Among these is the lead single, “Forbidden Road,” co-written by Williams, which has already generated buzz.
During early screenings, the film’s unique portrayal of Williams’ story has been described as both entertaining and expressive, reflecting the offbeat sensibilities he is known for. One standout moment highlighted during the early screenings involves the lively adaptation of “Rock DJ,” filmed against the backdrop of London’s Regents Street, which the city temporarily shut down for the energetic dance sequence.
Yet, the film is not merely aimed at making audiences laugh. It offers Williams the space to confront his inner demons, marking it as more than just another celebrity biopic. “I want everyone to know how much I suffered,” he has said, echoing the poignant themes woven throughout this cinematic homage to his life.
The premiere encapsulated both the film’s celebratory and challenging aspects, particularly through Williams’ emotional tribute to his ex-partner, Nicole Appleton. Filmed by close friend Holly Willoughby, Williams made heartfelt remarks, stating, “Thank you for being f** brave,” as he acknowledged their tumultuous relationship, including her experience with abortion, which is depicted within the film. Their relationship blossomed during their time on Top of the Pops and carries significant weight as it mirrors Williams’ own struggles with fame and love.
One of the film’s central themes is the cyclic nature of fame, and this is represented through the metaphor of the chimp. Williams finds himself grappling with his past, battling his inner critic symbolized by this animated version of himself, attempting to reconcile his former selves. The film culminates at the Royal Albert Hall, where he finally addresses his father publicly, closing the chapter on many of his personal traumas.
The reception of Better Man has underscored the widespread admiration for Williams, both as an entertainer and as a personal figure. Critics have noted how the unconventional decision to feature him as a chimp encapsulates his often comic yet tragic life and how it resonates with the struggles many face when dealing with life's pressures.
With its innovative storytelling and heartfelt reflection on personal and public challenges, Better Man is more than just another biopic; it encapsulates the charm and struggles of Robbie Williams, reminding audiences of the humanity beneath the celebrity facade. This unique portrayal has undoubtedly struck a chord, positioning the film as one of the most talked-about releases of the year.
While Better Man* revels in the highs and lows of the pop star's life, it leaves viewers contemplating the fine line between entertainment and the real struggles faced behind the scenes. Williams is sure to evoke thought and laughter as he continues to navigate the complex world of fame, underscoring the message: the show, as they say, must go on, but it remains to be seen how many more chapters there are to write.
