Better Man, directed by Michael Gracey, attempts to bring a new and daring approach to the music biopic genre by portraying British pop star Robbie Williams as a CGI chimpanzee. While the intention behind this unusual choice is to symbolize the dehumanizing effects of fame, it ultimately feels more like a gimmick than a meaningful metaphor, taking away from the emotional core of the film.
The movie follows Williams’ rise to stardom and his struggles with addiction, self-doubt, and the pressures of fame, but the surreal visuals and flashy direction often overshadow these more intimate moments. The vibrant musical numbers and energetic choreography are certainly attention-grabbing, but they don’t serve the story in a way that feels cohesive or grounded. The film’s over-the-top style at times feels disconnected from the very real challenges Williams faced, making it difficult to fully connect with his journey.
The decision to use a CGI chimpanzee as the central portrayal of Williams feels like an unnecessary distraction. Instead of offering a thoughtful commentary on celebrity culture, it detracts from the more human aspects of the story. This creative risk seems more focused on being visually different than on adding depth to the character or narrative. As a result, the film comes off as more experimental than emotionally effective.
Though Better Man is filled with bold and striking visuals, it struggles to find the right balance between spectacle and storytelling. The emotional weight of Williams’ struggles is often lost in the chaos of surreal scenes, leaving the viewer feeling disconnected from his personal story. The film’s attempt to be visually striking detracts from its potential to provide a genuine and heartfelt portrayal of the artist.
Narrated by Robbie Williams himself, the film’s commentary often feels heavy-handed, reducing the emotional impact of key moments. Rather than allowing the visuals and performances to speak for themselves, the narration is direct and lacks subtlety, detracting from the depth of the character’s journey.
In the end, Better Man is a bold but flawed attempt at a music biopic. While its artistic risks are admirable, the film struggles to deliver a cohesive, emotional, and authentic portrayal of Robbie Williams. The visual creativity and musical sequences may be memorable, but the movie ultimately fails to create a truly resonant experience. For those seeking a grounded and insightful biopic, Better Man may fall short, leaving a sense of frustration with its misguided attempts at innovation.
