Movie Review: Better Man

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A daring, innovative approach to reimagining popular songs, combined with strong themes, makes for an incredibly enjoyable and captivating documentary about rock music.

Or alternatively,

A bold choice of reinventing pop tunes results in a powerfully engaging rock documentary, filled with wild entertainment due to its creative decisions and compelling themes.

The film titled “Better Man,” a biographical music drama inspired by the life of renowned pop star Robbie Williams, could have easily fallen into the category of conventional “rockumentaries” like “Elvis,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” or “Rocketman.” It features captivating musical performances, reenactments of key career milestones, and an exploration of the artist’s personal life. However, what makes it stand out is a unique and unexpected decision: the main character is a computer-generated chimpanzee.

Michael Gracey’s daring choice, possibly inspired by the realistic CGI used in the Planet of the Apes reboot featuring Andy Serkis, results in an unusual cinematic dynamic. The film doesn’t clarify this innovative switch; instead, it permits a chimpanzee to represent Williams, which is quite unconventional for a music biopic. This decision carries numerous benefits. It grants greater control over the character’s aging process, avoiding the disconnect that can occur when different actors play the same person at different life stages. Additionally, it enables the filmmaker to depict the lead character in multiple scenarios. Initially, this concept might have been a joke, but the absurdity adds an intriguing tension, adding a surprising elegance to some of the character’s more primitive responses.

“No seriously, I want to entertain you.”

Though the digital aspect occasionally seems a tad flashy, it doesn’t diminish the fact that this film by Gracey, known for The Greatest Showman, is an incredibly moving and emotionally impactful production. The music is expertly integrated into the storyline, adding depth through lyrics and their association with moments in Williams’s life. Better Man delves into Williams’s battles with self-doubt, personal demons, and father-son complexities, as well as his affectionate bond with his grandmother, disagreements with bandmates, and relationship hurdles. The drama is powerfully gripping yet interspersed with comedic relief, reflecting Williams’s playful, carefree demeanor.

As a film critic, let me share my perspective on the captivating movie, “Better Man.” This cinematic piece might not dazzle with groundbreaking technical finesse, but it certainly stands out as a refreshing take on a genre that’s seen its fair share of reels.

“Better Man” is an exhilarating, at times brutally honest, rollercoaster ride through the memories of a familiar yet intriguing character. The performances and choreography are nothing short of stellar, adding depth and realism to the narrative.

At its core, this film delves into the gripping tale of one’s pursuit of stardom amidst personal chaos, offering an engaging and reflective experience that keeps viewers hooked. Though it doesn’t encompass all of Williams’ biggest hits, it skillfully focuses on the most iconic and emotionally potent ones.

For those who only know snippets of his life and career, “Better Man” serves up a compellingly honest and authentic portrayal – shedding light on the darker aspects that often get overshadowed by the glitz and glamour. In essence, this movie provides an engrossing glimpse into the soul of a legendary figure, offering a captivating account of his life’s journey.

The bottom line: Entertaining

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2025-08-15 13:43