Robbie Williams, the beloved British pop icon, is set to hit the big screen this Christmas with his much-anticipated biopic, Better Man. Directed by Michael Gracey, known for his work on The Greatest Showman, the film promises to provide audiences with not only the riveting story of Williams’ rise to fame but also his struggles and personal battles along the way.
Better Man takes viewers on a wild ride through Williams’ life, starting from his childhood, through his time as the youngest member of the boy band Take That, and onto his successful solo career. The narrative is particularly unique as it will portray Williams as a CGI chimpanzee, reflecting how he views himself—a concept both intriguing and bizarre.
The film, which opens on December 26, 2024, with nationwide release following on January 10, 2025, has already generated massive interest, recently premiering at several film festivals where it received considerable acclaim. It’s based on the true story of Robbie Williams, showcasing his meteoric rise, dramatic falls, and remarkable resurgence as one of the world’s top entertainers.
Why the Chimpanzee? You might wonder what the reasoning behind representing Williams as a monkey is. Director Gracey explained this distinct choice, noting notable discussions with the artist himself. He mentioned, "I asked Robbie: ‘If you were an animal, how would you see yourself?’" The answer pointed toward the idea of being seen as less sophisticated, likening himself to a “performing monkey.” Gracey believed this depiction would resonate more strongly with audiences, marrying the fantastical with the stark realities of Williams’ life.
Alongside Williams, actor Jonno Davies will give life to the character through motion capture, combining elements of both voice acting and performance. This fusion of technology and storytelling seeks to deliver a fresh take on the biopic genre, which has become somewhat formulaic over the years. Davies voiced his excitement about the project, saying, "Making this happen involves so much teamwork and creativity, and it’s my hope the final result truly reflects Robbie’s incredible life and struggles."
Adding depth to the portrayal, the cast is rounded out by notable actors such as Steve Pemberton as Williams’ father Peter and Alison Steadman as his mother Betty, providing audiences with familiar faces to connect with. Fans of Take That will be delighted to see the dynamics of the band captured on screen, particularly the interpersonal relationships, including the long-standing tension between Williams and his former bandmate Gary Barlow.
Williams, who himself has expressed concerns about the film, stated, "I’ll be throwing people under the bus" to maintain authenticity. This honesty about his life has been corroborated by his wife, Ayda Field, who discussed how the film touches on their relationship dynamics and Williams’ view of fame affecting personal growth. The film does not shy away from addressing the darker moments of his life, which Williams acknowledges will be difficult for some to watch, saying, "It wasn’t complimentary to Gaz, and I feel for Gaz for what’s portrayed." Yet, this portrayal does aim to deliver the truth of his experiences.
Critics have begun to weigh in, with some praising the film’s balance of humor and gravity. Better Man captures Williams' essence—a complicated mix of bravado and vulnerability—representative of many celebrities today. The narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with Williams' biggest hits, including classics like "Angels" and "Rock DJ," allowing for engaging musical interludes at pivotal moments.
One of the notable aspects of Better Man is its entertaining visuals and the cinematic experience it aims to provide. Although the decision to depict the singer as a chimpanzee has sparked discussions and skepticism, it’s part of what Gracey sees as reimagining how biopics can engage audiences beyond the conventional storytelling methods.
The biopic is already making waves as it has been shortlisted for awards, including major nominations at the latest AACTA Awards, which speaks to its impressive reception amid early screenings. Director Gracey expressed excitement about the responses so far, noting, "It was tough to get this concept off the ground, especially dealing with initial pushback, but seeing audiences react positively makes it all worthwhile."
With its innovative approach, star-studded cast, and personal revelations, Better Man promises to shine a spotlight not just on Robbie Williams’ musical achievements, but on the personal stories of fame, isolation, and self-discovery. This Christmas, cinema-goers will have the opportunity to explore the life of one of pop music's most iconic figures like never before.
Catch Better Man this holiday season to witness Robbie Williams' extraordinary tale of triumph, despair, and his unabashed take on what it means to be seen through the eyes of both the public and himself as he navigates through his incredible career.
