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The standard-order musician’s bio-pic exists primarily as a
way for filmmakers to capitalize on the popularity of a singer and an
opportunity to provide viewers with a “greatest hits” compilation. Rarely do
these films achieve any sort of cinematic greatness and most feel largely
disposable. The often-ignored truth is that, although many of the subjects of
these movies may be accomplished artists with tremendous talent, this doesn’t
mean their lives are sufficiently interesting to warrant a motion picture.
Although Robbie Williams, the singer/songwriter/performer at
the center of Better Man, doesn’t offer a more dramatic life story than
that of any other recording artist receiving a big-screen homage, two
stylistic/narrative choices make this overall a compelling bio-pic. The first
is that director Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) chooses to
present Williams not as the hero of his own story but as the antagonist.
Williams (who was heavily involved in the development and production of the
movie) leans into his reputation as a “bad boy.” Better Man doesn’t offer
him up as a cartoonish villain – attempts are made to humanize him – but he’s
rarely likeable and sometimes downright despicable. The second (and more
audacious) decision is to represent Williams as a chimpanzee, which adds
pizzazz during those instances when the storyline turns generic.
The motion capture work necessary to give life to the simian
Williams is top-notch – at least as good as anything in the recent Planet of
the Apes cycle. Jonno Davies provides the body and Williams does his own
voicework (both spoken and singing). This overcomes the issue of finding
someone to play the title character (or requiring de-aging to be done on
Williams) since he is essentially able to do it himself. Better Man
never breaks the illusion, either. There are no instances when Williams is
depicted as human (unless you count the obligatory photos during the end
credits).
Fans of Williams and the boy band Take That (of which he was
a member before embarking on a solo career) will find plenty of songs to sate
their appetite. Some are the original recordings but many have been re-recorded
specifically for the movie to better fit the moment. Around a dozen songs are
featured, including “Let Me Entertain You,” “Angels,” and “She’s the One.”
Since much of Williams’ life has played out under the glare
of the tabloid-fueled public spotlight, many of the incidents recounted in Better
Man will come as no surprise to fans, especially in the U.K. The “new”
material relates to his relationships with other family members, particularly
his beloved grandmother, Betty (Alison Steadman), and his fame-obsessed father,
Peter (Steve Pemberton). His mother, Janet (Kate Mulvany), gets some screen
time but the script downplays her involvement in his life and development.
The narrative’s structure is roughly of the three-act
variety, with the first section focusing on Williams’ rise to fame as he is
discovered by manager Nigel Martin-Smith and incorporated into the boy band
quintet of Take That alongside Gary Barlow (Jake Simmance), Howard Donald (Liam
Head), Mark Owen (Jesse Hyde), and Jason Orange (Chase Vollenweider). The
second act chronicles his period of solo superstardom including his rocky
relationship with Nicole Appleton (Raechelle Banno) of the girl group All Saints.
(Their meet-cute scene is a highlight.) Booze and drugs overwhelm him – one
wonders how Williams survived those years. The third portion of the film
relates to his three concerts at Knebworth in August 2003 before 125,000 people
and the impact it has on him as an individual and how it changes his
relationship with his often-absent father.
Gracey’s bracing style, which invites some interesting
observations (such as whether sex scenes featuring Williams-as-a-chimp should
be considered bestiality), gives the movie an edge that it never loses even
after we have gotten used to the substitution. And the movie’s unwillingness to
soften the main character’s rough edges or downplay his evident character flaws
keeps the movie from descending into the hagiography hell where far too many of
these films end up. Although it’s likely that greater familiarity with the
music will result in a stronger reaction to Better Man, the film is
sufficiently well-made to attract a wider audience than those with a stack of
Take That and Robbie Williams CDs in their closets.
Better Man (Australia/USA, 2024)
Cast:
Robbie Williams, Frazer Hadfield, Kate Mulvany, Anthony Hayes, Raechelle Banno, Damon Herriman, Alison Steadman, Steve Pemberton, Jonno Davies, Jake Simmance
Screenplay: Simon Gleeson, Oliver Cole, Michael Gracey
Cinematography: Erik A. Wilson
Music: Batu Sener, Robbie Williams
U.S. Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Better Man | Reelviews Movie Reviews
Are you looking for a movie that will inspire you to be a better person? Look no further than “Better Man,” the latest film to hit theaters. This heartwarming tale follows the journey of a man who is faced with tough decisions and must confront his past in order to become the person he wants to be.
Critics are raving about “Better Man,” praising its powerful storytelling, strong performances, and emotional impact. This film is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling inspired to make positive changes in your own life.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see “Better Man” in theaters. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be moved by this touching and thought-provoking film. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
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