Robbie Williams, the former Take That frontman, transforms his life story onto the big screen with the unconventional biographic film, ‘Better Man.’ What makes this film stand out? Instead of being portrayed directly by another actor, Williams is represented by a CGI monkey, voiced by himself, creating both intrigue and conversation among audiences and critics alike.
The 50-year-old singer, known for his flamboyant style and candid nature, originally envisioned himself as the regal 'king of the jungle'—a lion. Williams revealed this desire during a conversation with director Michael Gracey, mentioning, "(I initially told Michael I wanted to be a) lion. I was trying to get some self-worth for myself at the time – and still, every day. 'Chin out, chest out – lion.'" (Reported by NME) He later recounted the moment when Gracey suggested depicting him as a monkey instead. After some reflection, Williams embraced the idea, stating, "Because that's it, innit? I'm a cheeky monkey, aren't I?"
Gracey, known for his work on ‘The Greatest Showman,’ sought to capture Williams’ larger-than-life persona through this creative route. He shared his reasoning, explaining, "There’s been a number of musical biopics and I was searching for something ... more interesting. When I came up with the idea, it just really made me smile. You see more of Rob in the monkey than you would if it was an actor playing him." (Reported by NME) The film features high-resolution scans of Williams' eyes, allowing audiences to connect intimately with the character.
Among those moved by the film’s content was Williams’ former partner, Nicole Appleton, and her sister Natalie. The emotional impact was substantial; Williams shared, "[My ex-girlfriend] Nicole [Appleton] went to see it last week with Natalie ... I FaceTimed them all straight after the film and we all wept together." (Reported by Deadline) The relationship between Williams and Appleton, which spanned from 1997 to 1999, included engagements and challenges, including the loss of their expected child due to pressure from Appleton’s record label.
This history is woven throughout the film, shedding light on Williams' tumultuous personal life, including his notorious battles with addiction. The raw, unfiltered portrayal within 'Better Man' offers viewers insight not just around his career but also the shadows lurking behind the glitz of fame.
Williams also expressed anxiety about how his ex-Take That bandmates would react to the film’s content. He noted, "I’m terrified because our relationship is so complicated ... returning to the scene of the crime and talking about it as I did as a 17-year-old is bound to open old wounds for people." (Reported by Deadline) The interplay of Williams' professional life and personal relationships is visibly delicate, and he remains apprehensive about their reactions and interpretations.
Another noted figure connected to the film is former Oasis frontman, Liam Gallagher. Williams remarked, "I don’t know how Liam [Gallagher]’s going to behave about being in the film. It’ll be interesting." His rivalry with Gallagher is well-documented and adds another layer of complexity to Williams’ legacy.
The innovative approach taken by Gracey also involved the artistry behind the CGI monkey. The film utilized the expertise of WETA FX, the same artists who worked on the critically acclaimed ‘Planet of the Apes’ franchise. To bring Williams’ animated alter ego to life, Jonno Davies performed motion-capture filming and provided the voice for the character, making it even more possible for audiences to hear Williams’ thoughts and emotions through the monkey.
Gracey had initially promised viewers something distinct. "I want to do this in a really original way... I just want the audience to think, 'I’ve never seen this before.'" (Reported by Deadline) The film, combining animation with autobiography, leads viewers on a unique narrative path, one not often explored, giving credence to the emotional weight of Williams’ experiences as he navigated fame, addiction, and personal growth.
'Better Man' not only chronicles the highs and lows of Robbie Williams’ life but simultaneously challenges how biopics are conventionally structured. It presents poignant moments of vulnerability through the guise of humor and imagery, effectively turning Williams’ struggles and triumphs on their head, energizing the audience for every laugh, tear, and moment of reflection.
Williams’ unique representation and the fascinating premise of ‘Better Man’ invite viewers to reconsider the narrative of celebrity life, all through the eyes of his CGI companion, creating a thought-provoking film experience.
