Movies - Better man : Robbie Williams' Journey Unveiled in a Bold Cinematic Experience

By Mulder, 27 january 2025

“Thank you to everyone who supported the album and the film. It is a huge honor to receive my 15ᵉ number one album in the UK. A special thank you to my fans, whose support never ceases to touch me deeply. I'm so proud of the film Better Man, and to see the soundtrack reach number one makes this adventure even more special.” - Robbie Williams

Robbie Williams, the British pop icon, is writing a new page in musical history by reaching a remarkable pinnacle. The soundtrack to Better Man, the film retracing his life, topped the UK charts, marking the 15ᵉ number-one solo album of his career. With this feat, Williams equals the Beatles' legendary record, a fact that testifies to his lasting impact on global pop music. In an emotional message, the artist was keen to thank his fans for their unwavering support, stressing that this achievement makes his journey even more special.

Released in France on January 22, 2025, Better Man has already met with impressive success, attracting over 100,000 spectators to cinemas. Accompanied by excellent word-of-mouth, the film is also shining with critics and audiences alike, with remarkable ratings: 7.2 on Sens Critique, 4.2/5 for UGC viewers, and 4.3/5 on Allociné. This musical biopic thus surpasses other recent releases such as Emilia Perez and The Substance, confirming its place as one of the most striking films of the new year.

Directed by Michael Gracey, best known for the worldwide hit The Greatest Showman, Better Man dares to think outside the box to tell the story of Robbie Williams. The film takes a bold and innovative approach, choosing to portray Williams as a CGI chimpanzee, played by Jonno Davies through motion capture. This choice, which might seem unexpected, aims to capture the unique, exuberant essence of the artist while exploring profound themes such as fame, personal struggles and redemption. With touches of humor, moments of introspection and reinterpreted musical performances, Better Man redefines what a music biopic can be.

The film traces the milestones in Robbie Williams' life, from his early days in the boy band Take That to his rise as a world-renowned solo artist. Highlights include his struggle with addiction and the pressures of fame, while exploring moments of triumph and vulnerability. One of the film's highlights is its soundtrack, where iconic songs such as Angels, Let Me Entertain You and She's the One have been re-recorded to better align with the emotions of the story. These reinterpretations offer fans a new perspective on already legendary songs.

Better Man was shot between Melbourne and London, recreating some of the most iconic moments in Robbie Williams' career with striking precision. These include the memorable Live at the Albert concert in 2001, a showcase for his talent and unique stage presence. In addition to Jonno Davies, who plays a young Robbie Williams using motion capture technology, the cast includes renowned actors such as Steve Pemberton, Alison Steadman and Damon Herriman. The film also features cameos from the members of Take That, a touch that will delight long-time fans.

Premiering at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2024, followed by a screening at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, Better Man immediately caught the attention of critics and audiences alike. Praised for its bold storytelling and stunning visual effects, the film has positioned itself as a serious contender for awards season. In particular, it has been nominated for Best Visual Effects at the Oscars 2025, a well-deserved recognition of the project's technical and artistic ambition.

Beyond the film, 2025 promises to be a particularly busy year for Robbie Williams. His highly-anticipated European tour, scheduled for the summer, will make a stopover in Paris on July 2. At this concert, fans will have the opportunity to hear some of the reinterpretations featured in the film, reinforcing the link between the cinematic experience and the artist's musical universe. This event promises to delight fans of live music while celebrating Robbie Williams' iconic songs in a new light.

Better Man is more than just a biopic; it's an introspective journey through the highs and lows of a career marked by dazzling triumphs and moments of doubt. Michael Gracey's unique vision, combined with Robbie Williams' undeniable charisma, makes this film a captivating and unforgettable cinematic experience. At the crossroads of emotion, visual innovation and music, Better Man is a must-see for long-time fans and newcomers alike, as they discover the fascinating story of one of pop's greatest stars.

Synopsis:
In the north of England, young Robbie grows up fascinated by his father's dreams of stardom, and soon leaves home to pursue his passion. Buoyed by his grandmother's love, it's Robbie who becomes a true showman and world star. Now an international icon, he must face the challenges that success, fame and life itself bring. Under the direction of visionary director Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman), this fast-paced film inspired by the life of pop legend Robbie Williams plunges us into a poignant and universal quest for identity: one in which the gaze of others and the bonds of love, family and friendship shape the human being we become. An exciting journey along the road to success, self-discovery and true happiness.

Better Man
Directed by Michael Gracey
Written by Michael Gracey, Oliver Cole, Simon Gleeson
Produced by Craig McMahon, Paul Currie, Michael Gracey, Coco Xiaolu Ma
Starring Robbie Williams, Jonno Davies, Steve Pemberton, Alison Steadman
Cinematography : Erik Wilson
Music by Batu Sener (score), Robbie Williams (songs)
Production companies : Footloose Productions, Zero Gravity Management, Jumpy Cow Pictures, Showman, Rocket Science
Distributed by Roadshow Films (Australia), Paramount Pictures (United States)
Release dates : 30 August 2024 (Telluride), 25 December 2024 (United States), January 22, 2025 (France)
Running time : 134 minutes