Robbie Williams’ Unconventional Biopic: “Better Man” with a CGI Ape

A Rags-to-Riches Story with a Twist

Come on, come on, come on, come on. A pop star as swaggering as Robbie Williams – the British ’90s icon who rocketed out of Take That to his own mega-fame – was never going to fit the standard rags-to-riches biopic treatment we’ve seen hundreds of times over. But admit it: you didn’t exactly expect this. Better Man is, indeed, a Robbie Williams biopic, depicting his rise as a pop provocateur, chart-smasher, and general troublemaker. Except, the part of Robbie Williams is played by… a CGI ape, Planet Of The Apes style. No, really. Not a bad fit for the man behind ‘Me And My Monkey’. Watch the bonkers first trailer here:

A Unique Take on Music Biopics

Amid a deluge of by-the-numbers music biopics, it’s thrilling to see Better Man take a totally different tack – along with the LEGO Pharrell film Piece By Piece, it’s the most original idea since Rocketman remixed Elton John’s story into an all-out musical. And given that Williams has never shied away from sharing his battles, hopefully this one will be equally unflinching as Rocketman in depicting the highs and lows of stardom. The film is directed by Michael Gracey, who helmed The Greatest Showman and Pink documentary Pink: All I Know So Far – with Williams providing his own voice for the damn dirty ape. For those who grew up with Williams’ music, there’s plenty to recognise here – the 2002 Brits, the 1999 Glasgow concert where he wore a kilt, his massive Knebworth gig. Just, you know, with an ape. And there does seem to be proper musical numbers here, as well as the stage performances.

Release Date and Reception

Given its positive reception at Telluride and TIFF, Better Man could end up being a real end-of-year treat – it’s due to hit UK cinemas on 26 December. Let him entertain you.

Conclusion

Better Man is a refreshing departure from the usual music biopic formula, offering a unique blend of humor, drama, and music. With its positive reception and December release date, this film is definitely one to look out for.

FAQs

Q: Who is directing Better Man?
A: The film is directed by Michael Gracey, known for his work on The Greatest Showman and Pink: All I Know So Far.

Q: Who is providing the voice for Robbie Williams in the film?
A: Robbie Williams himself is providing his own voice for the CGI ape.

Q: Will there be musical numbers in the film?
A: Yes, the film includes both stage performances and proper musical numbers.

Q: When is Better Man set to be released?
A: The film is due to hit UK cinemas on 26 December.