BETTER MAN is a groundbreaking and unconventional musical biopic that reimagines the life of Robbie Williams in a way that defies traditional storytelling norms. The film delves deeply into Williams's battles with fame, identity, and personal struggles, all while utilizing innovative visual and narrative techniques. Under the direction of Michael Gracey, the story takes a striking creative turn by depicting Williams as a CGI-rendered monkey—a bold and symbolic choice.
This depiction of Williams as a monkey transcends mere novelty, serving as a metaphor for his self-perception as a performer trapped in the relentless cycle of public scrutiny. Surprisingly, this abstraction humanizes him more effectively than a traditional human portrayal might have. By removing the physical likeness of a human actor, the film focuses on the raw emotional essence of Williams’s experiences, creating a character that resonates on a universal level.
The monkey’s expressive features and exaggerated physicality amplify Williams’s larger-than-life personality while laying bare his vulnerability. This imaginative choice sidesteps the pitfalls of imitation and instead invites the audience to connect with his struggles in a deeply symbolic and emotional way.
Visually, the movie is a feast for the senses, featuring electrifying musical sequences that mirror the chaos and vibrancy of pop stardom. These dynamic moments immerse the audience in key episodes of Williams's career, while the surreal monkey imagery underscores the absurdity of fame and its isolating effects. By representing Williams as a CGI monkey, the film transcends his personal story, making it a relatable allegory for anyone who has felt constrained by societal expectations or struggled to break free from imposed roles.
The supporting cast delivers powerful performances, adding depth and grounding the narrative with authentic relationships and interactions. These characters provide a stark contrast to the surreal elements, emphasizing the real-life challenges that shaped Williams’s trajectory. Themes of identity, self-doubt, and the cost of success are explored with unflinching honesty, shining a light on his battles with addiction, insecurity, and the pressures of celebrity life.
At its core, BETTER MAN is a deeply moving exploration of the human condition, cleverly framed within the structure of an experimental biopic. While the choice to represent Williams as a CGI monkey may not appeal to all viewers, it serves as a daring and thought-provoking metaphor for the complexities of fame and self-perception. For those who admire Robbie Williams or appreciate innovative, boundary-pushing cinema, BETTER MAN offers a uniquely compelling experience that leaves a lasting impression.
BETTER MAN is in Select Theatres on December 25th, 2024 and Nationwide on January 17th, 2025.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Daniel Schwartz (Contributor) is a New Jersey native who loves watching movies. His favorite genres include action, comedies, and sci-fi. Click Here to check out Daniel's Articles.