Better Man review: Robbie Williams swings his way to stardom
Bec Summer
STACK Writer
You must be psychic if you predicted that a Robbie Williams biopic was on the cards, let alone the film being led by a primate.
Yes, you read that right. If you missed the promotional buzz surrounding Better Man during its theatrical run, you might be confused to learn that the UK’s bad boy of pop is played by a monkey.
This curious choice reflects how Williams sees himself. Through his own narration, he reveals that he’s always viewed himself as a misfit and an unevolved human, trapped in a stage of arrested development. He also likens himself to a show pony, on display like a performing circus act.
While this life was one he chose, Williams' spiral into depression and drug addiction is largely self-inflicted, which raises the question: why should we sympathise with his story?
The film doesn’t ask you to - it offers a raw, warts-and-all account of his life, from childhood and boy band stardom to disgrace, redemption, relapse, and triumph. It’s a rollercoaster of excess, glamour, grounded family drama, and Williams' ongoing quest for approval.
There’s nothing quite like Better Man, and its bizarre primate portrayal, which remains peculiar throughout, serves as a cheeky metaphor for Williams’ self-perception.
Directed by Aussie filmmaker Michael Gracie (The Greatest Showman) and shot in Melbourne, the film is a bold, brash musical extravaganza, packed with some of Williams' iconic hits and elaborate music sequences.
It’s loud, and rather than gently drawing you in, it sneaks up and kicks you into its world. You have no choice but to immerse yourself.
Fans of Williams' music are in for a treat, and Better Man may be their highlight of the year. Meanwhile, others may find themselves bopping along in wide-eyed bemusement, unsure of why they’re having such a great time.
Monkey see, monkey sing...
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