‘Better Man’ Review: Robbie Williams Shines in a Bold and Heartfelt Biopic
Robbie Williams takes us through his life story in a unique and captivating way, filled with heart, swagger, and his signature showmanship. In a refreshing twist, he portrays himself as a CGI chimpanzee in a film populated by real-life actors. While this motion capture choice might seem like a gimmick, both Robbie Williams and Jonno Davies deliver a compelling and deeply engaging performance that adds much more than just visual appeal.
The film is surprisingly emotional and sincere, chronicling Robbie’s rise to fame, his time with Take That, his departure from the band, and his monumental success as a solo artist, culminating in his legendary Knebworth concert. It also delves into his struggles as a child, grappling with a sense of identity and the yearning to feel “somebody,” a theme that continues to haunt him. The Take That years are explored with insight into the pressures the band faced and Robbie’s growing frustration with his place in it, leading to his decision to go solo. His perseverance and raw talent ultimately propel him to the top of the music world.
For anyone unfamiliar with Robbie Williams beyond the headlines of the ’90s tabloids, Better Man offers a fascinating and heartfelt insight into his personal and professional journey. It serves as an accessible entry point into his life, and fans who have followed his career closely will undoubtedly appreciate the deep dive into his story. The film also explores his complex relationships, particularly with Nicole Appleton of All Saints, as well as his rivalry with the Gallagher brothers of Oasis. All of this is presented with a refreshing honesty that’s often missing from modern biopics.
Directed by Michael Gracey, who co-wrote the script with Simon Gleeson and Oliver Cole, Better Man expertly condenses Robbie’s expansive story into a film that flows smoothly, handles difficult topics with grace, and maintains the audience’s attention throughout. The CGI chimp might seem like a cheap hook, but it’s actually an ingenious narrative tool, symbolizing how Robbie viewed himself at different points in his life and career. While the visual effect initially requires some adjustment, it soon becomes an immersive and powerful element of the storytelling, supported by stellar performances from both Williams and Davies.
The film also makes great use of Robbie’s extensive music catalog, delivering several electrifying musical moments that keep the energy high. A standout scene from the trailer, a rousing rendition of “Rock DJ” in London’s West End, is a crowd-pleasing showstopper, and the Knebworth concert is equally impressive. However, the emotional highlight of the film is a moving performance of “Feel,” which stands out as the most poignant moment.
Better Man exceeds expectations and offers an experience that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. With energetic performances from Williams and Davies, it’s a refreshing take on the biopic genre. It’s better than both Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman combined—an inventive and heartfelt film that will make you laugh, cry, and sing along. A must-see, whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to Robbie’s world.