The year 2025 is just two days old, and it already greets its first biopic on the big screen. Biographical films, showcasing real-life figures—both living and deceased—have become a popular genre in cinema. However, “Better Man – Die Robbie Williams Story” stands out, as the British mega-pop star Robbie Williams, who has achieved tremendous success with his twelve solo albums, is portrayed by a CGI-generated monkey using performance-capture technology. This monkey, representing how Robbie sees himself, acts as the narrator, guiding us through his tumultuous life from childhood to the highs and lows of his career, including struggles with addiction and personal issues.
Robbie’s childhood (voiced by Asmara Feik) is depicted as relatively normal in the English town of Stoke-on-Trent, though he is shy and not one of the cool kids. He faces teasing, especially in football, but is supported and loved by his caring grandmother (Alison Steadman), as his relationship with his parents, particularly his father Peter (Steve Pemberton), remains strained. His father, initially sharing a dream of being on stage with Robbie, eventually leaves the family to pursue a modest career under the name Pete Conway.
At the age of 16, Robbie (now portrayed by Jonno Davies) gains more confidence and lands a spot in the boy band Take That, a decision that will forever change his life. The band doesn’t achieve instant fame, and their manager, Nigel Martin-Smith (Damon Herriman), initially attempts to place them in the gay scene. However, with the release of their album “Everything Changes” in 1993, Take That skyrockets to stardom. Though Robbie is envious of Gary Barlow (Jake Simmance), who writes most of their songs, he enjoys the fame, even as his battle with alcohol and drugs begins to overshadow his success.
Amid breakdowns and escapades, Robbie leaves Take That in 1995 after being given an ultimatum and begins a solo career. This move, particularly with the collaboration with songwriter and producer Guy Chambers (Tom Budge), proves immensely successful, but Robbie continues to struggle with his inner demons and addiction. Even as he begins a relationship with Nicole Appleton (Raechelle Banno) from the band All Saints, his issues persist, and he teeters on the edge of self-destruction while keeping his dream of headlining the legendary Knebworth Festival alive and reconnecting with his estranged father.
“Better Man – Die Robbie Williams Story” could have been just another musician biopic, but director Michael Gracey, known for his work on “The Greatest Showman,” brings a fresh perspective with his direction and the innovative use of a monkey to represent Robbie. This bold choice, though initially jarring, ultimately succeeds, creating an unforgettable visual experience.
The film is deeply shaped by Robbie’s own portrayal of his struggles, and while it doesn’t shy away from his drug problems or his battles with inner demons, it doesn’t glorify them either. For viewers unfamiliar with Robbie’s tumultuous past, some aspects of the film may be shocking—whether it’s his struggles or his mistreatment of Nicole Appleton. Despite this, the film still weaves in plenty of Robbie’s hit songs, with some of the most spectacular choreography seen in the boy band scenes. These songs are integrated thoughtfully, aligning with Robbie’s emotional states rather than following a strict chronological order, a clever storytelling choice.
The team at Wētā FX, renowned for their work on “Planet of the Apes” and “The Lord of the Rings,” has done an exceptional job in bringing the CGI monkey to life, with impressive movements and strong facial expressions. The supporting cast, especially Alison Steadman as Robbie’s grandmother, also shines. Overall, “Better Man – Die Robbie Williams Story” is a compelling, at times shocking, biographical spectacle that entertains while also offering a poignant look at the personal struggles of one of pop’s biggest stars. At 134 minutes, it never loses its grip on the audience.
