When you think of biopics, you’re probably imagining intense drama, emotional music, and perhaps a few tears. But Better Man, the biopic about British pop superstar Robbie Williams, brings a unique twist—Robbie’s life is told through the perspective of a CGI monkey. Yes, you read that right! The film promises to be anything but your typical celebrity biography, blending humor, music, and creativity in a fresh take on the singer’s rise to fame. In this article, we’ll dive into the intriguing world of Better Man, exploring everything from Robbie Williams’ early career to the bizarre yet charming use of a CGI monkey.
What is Better Man About?
The Plot: A Star’s Rise, Fall, and Comeback
Better Man traces Robbie Williams’ life from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise as a pop icon. The film explores his time as a member of the popular boyband Take That, his decision to go solo, and the ups and downs that come with fame. Robbie’s struggle with addiction, mental health issues, and the pressures of stardom are all part of this fascinating narrative.
Why the Use of a CGI Monkey?
Here’s the part that has fans buzzing: instead of showing Robbie Williams as a regular human throughout the film, he is represented as a CGI monkey. It’s a playful, tongue-in-cheek reflection of how Robbie sees himself—less evolved, humorous, and a bit wild. The monkey isn’t just a gimmick; it symbolizes the chaotic yet entertaining nature of his career and life.
Robbie Williams: From Take That to Solo Star
His Early Days in Take That
Robbie Williams burst onto the scene as the youngest member of the British boyband Take That. The group enjoyed massive success in the early 90s, with chart-topping hits and sold-out tours. However, behind the scenes, Robbie was struggling with the intense pressure of fame at such a young age.
Going Solo: Key Milestones in Robbie’s Career
In 1995, Robbie made the bold decision to leave Take That and embark on a solo career. This turned out to be a smart move, as his debut album Life Thru A Lens catapulted him into superstardom. Hits like “Angels” and “Let Me Entertain You” became anthems of a generation, solidifying his place as one of the biggest solo artists of the era.
| Movie Title | Year | Role/Contribution | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| “De-Lovely” | 2004 | Performer | Sang “It’s De-Lovely” in this biopic about composer Cole Porter. |
| “The Magic Roundabout” | 2005 | Voice Actor (Dougal) | Provided the voice of Dougal in this animated fantasy film. |
| “A Bear Named Winnie” | 2004 | Performer (Soundtrack Contribution) | Provided songs for the soundtrack of this Canadian drama. |
| “Gangsta Granny” | 2013 | Performer (Soundtrack Contribution) | Provided music for this children’s comedy-drama TV movie. |
| “Better Man” (Upcoming) | TBA | Himself (Biopic Subject/Executive Producer) | A biopic about Robbie Williams’ life, featuring a CGI monkey portrayal. |
| “Take That: Look Back, Don’t Stare” | 2010 | Documentary (Himself) | A documentary on Take That’s reunion, featuring Robbie Williams. |
| “One Direction: This Is Us” | 2013 | Performer | Robbie’s live performance featured in this documentary about One Direction. |
| “Robbie Williams: Live at the Albert” | 2001 | Concert Film (Himself) | Concert film of Robbie’s swing music performance at the Royal Albert Hall. |
Behind the Scenes of Better Man
Michael Gracey’s Vision for the Film
Directed by Michael Gracey, known for his work on The Greatest Showman, Better Man presents a fresh and imaginative approach to narrative storytelling, blending creativity with an unconventional style. Gracey wanted to capture Robbie’s unique spirit and wild sense of humor, which is why he opted for the CGI monkey as a stand-in for the singer. This decision was meant to reflect Robbie’s playful nature and the surreal journey of his career.
Casting the CGI Monkey and Other Performers
The role of the CGI monkey, which represents Robbie, is played by Jonno Davies, a talented actor known for his expressive performances. Alongside him, the film boasts an impressive cast, including Steve Pemberton, Damon Herriman, and Raechelle Banno, who bring the story of Robbie’s life to the screen.
The Creative Symbolism of the Monkey
How Robbie Williams Sees Himself in the Monkey
In interviews, Robbie has joked about feeling “less evolved” than others, which is why the monkey is the perfect representation of him. It’s a humorous and self-deprecating way to reflect on his career, especially considering the wild rollercoaster ride he’s been on. The monkey captures Robbie’s unpredictability and his larger-than-life personality.
The Challenges of Using CGI in a Musical Biopic
Creating a CGI character that can carry an entire film is no easy feat. The animation team behind Better Man worked tirelessly to ensure that the monkey not only looks lifelike but also embodies Robbie’s charisma and energy. This creative choice is one of the film’s most talked-about aspects, and it will be fascinating to see how audiences react to it.
How Fans Have Reacted to Better Man
First Trailer Reactions
The first trailer for Better Man dropped recently, and it has sparked a lot of interest. Fans were surprised (and amused) by the choice to use a CGI monkey to depict Robbie Williams, but many have embraced the quirky nature of the film. The trailer shows glimpses of Robbie’s life on stage, his personal struggles, and, of course, plenty of musical performances—all with a monkey in the starring role.
Anticipation for the Full Release
With the buzz building around Better Man, fans are eagerly awaiting the film’s full release. Robbie Williams has always been a showman, and this biopic promises to deliver a performance that is as entertaining and unpredictable as the singer himself.
Robbie Williams’ Influence on Pop Music
Robbie’s Legacy as a Solo Artist
Over the course of his career, Robbie Williams has sold over 75 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His ability to craft catchy, heartfelt songs has earned him legions of fans, and his live performances are legendary.
His Impact on Modern Pop Music
Robbie’s influence extends beyond his own music. As one of the pioneers of the modern British pop scene, he paved the way for countless other artists. His unapologetic attitude and willingness to take risks have inspired many younger musicians to embrace their individuality.
What to Expect from Better Man
A Fresh Take on Celebrity Biopics
Unlike traditional biopics that often take a more serious approach, Better Man is light-hearted and humorous, offering a fresh perspective on Robbie Williams’ life. The film blends music, comedy, and emotion in a way that mirrors the entertainer’s own style.
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How Better Man Compares to Other Recent Music Biopics
In recent years, we’ve seen a wave of successful music biopics like Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman. While Better Man shares some similarities—like chronicling a pop icon’s rise to fame—it sets itself apart with its creative use of CGI and its playful tone. It’s not just about the music; it’s about the man behind the fame, told through a fun and unexpected lens.
Reflections on Better Man and Robbie Williams’ Legacy
Better Man is shaping up to be a biopic like no other, full of humor, heart, and, of course, music. Whether you’ve been a fan of Robbie Williams since his Take That days or are just discovering his music, this film is sure to entertain and inspire. With a unique creative vision and a story that spans decades, Better Man will be a must-watch for anyone who loves pop culture and biographical films.
FAQs
- What is Better Man about?
Better Man is a biopic that follows Robbie Williams’ rise to fame, his struggles with addiction, and his comeback as one of the biggest pop stars in the world, told through the eyes of a CGI monkey. - Why does Better Man use a CGI monkey?
The CGI monkey symbolizes Robbie Williams’ humorous and unpredictable personality, representing how he sees himself as “less evolved” in a playful, metaphorical way. - When is Better Man being released?
The release date has yet to be officially confirmed, but the trailer has already generated significant excitement among fans. - Who is directing Better Man?
Michael Gracey, known for directing The Greatest Showman, is the creative mind behind Better Man. - Is Robbie Williams involved in the making of Better Man?
Yes, Robbie Williams is an executive producer on the film, ensuring that his story is told in a way that reflects his unique sense of humor and spirit.
