"Better Man" Trailer Unveiled: Robbie Williams Biopic Takes Bold, CGI Monkey Approach

Dan Lalonde
Oct 2, 2024
3 min read

BETTER MAN TRAILER VIDEO BELOW ARTICLE:

Paramount Pictures has just released the teaser trailer for "Better Man," an upcoming biopic about British pop icon Robbie Williams. Unlike conventional biopics, this film makes an unexpectedly inventive choice: instead of using an actor to portray the lead, it opts for a computer-generated monkey to represent Robbie Williams. Directed by Michael Gracey, the man behind "The Greatest Showman," the film promises to deliver a fresh take on the rise, fall, and redemption of one of the UK’s most beloved musicians.

Why a CGI Monkey?

The use of a computer-generated monkey in the place of a human actor is a bold creative decision. A featurette accompanying the teaser explains the reasoning behind it, providing insights into the symbolism and artistic goals of the filmmakers. This choice isn't just a quirky gimmick but a metaphorical device aimed at capturing the inner turmoil and complexities of Williams’ life and career.

By stepping away from the typical actor portrayal, the filmmakers aim to dive deeper into the psychological and emotional aspects of Williams' journey, portraying his struggles with fame, addiction, and self-worth in a way that a traditional biopic might not. The use of a CGI monkey allows for a more abstract and interpretive depiction of Williams' life, offering audiences a new lens through which to view his story.

The Life of Robbie Williams: From Boy Band Star to Solo Sensation

Robbie Williams' story is a dramatic one, filled with highs and lows that rival the most captivating musical careers. Born in Stoke-on-Trent, England, Williams first entered the spotlight as part of the boy band Take That in the early 1990s. Along with his bandmates, Williams quickly became a teenage heartthrob, amassing a loyal fan base across the UK and beyond.

However, after a turbulent few years with the group, including internal conflicts and personal struggles, Williams left Take That in 1995 to embark on a solo career. This bold move proved to be a turning point in his career, but it wasn’t without challenges. Battling addiction, depression, and a host of other demons, Williams’ early years as a solo artist were filled with both extraordinary success and personal hardship.

Chart-Topping Hits and Global Stardom

Despite his personal struggles, Williams went on to release some of the most iconic songs of the late 90s and early 2000s. Tracks like “Angels,” “Feel,” “Millennium,” and “Rock DJ” not only dominated the charts but also cemented his place as one of the UK’s greatest solo artists. His success wasn’t limited to the UK, as Williams became a global phenomenon, selling over 80 million records worldwide.

One of Williams’ most impressive accomplishments came when he set a Guinness World Record by selling 1.6 million tickets for a tour in a single day. His live performances became legendary, and his shows were known for their high energy, theatrical flair, and personal connection with his audience.

A Journey of Redemption

Beyond the fame and fortune, "Better Man" will explore the darker moments of Williams’ life—his struggles with substance abuse, mental health, and the pressures of stardom. Williams has been candid about his battles with addiction and depression, and the film will likely delve into these personal aspects, offering a raw and unflinching look at the toll that fame can take.

In recent years, Williams has made a remarkable comeback, both personally and professionally. After overcoming many of his struggles, he reunited with Take That for special performances and continues to release new music, proving that his star power is as strong as ever.

A Cinematic Experience Unlike Any Other

With Michael Gracey at the helm, "Better Man" is shaping up to be much more than a typical music biopic. Gracey, known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant storytelling in "The Greatest Showman," brings a unique vision to Williams’ story. The teaser hints at a visually striking film that combines elements of fantasy, drama, and introspection, with the CGI monkey adding an unexpected layer of metaphorical depth.

The film is set for a limited release in U.S. theaters on December 25, 2024, just in time for awards season, with a wider release planned for January 17, 2025. Fans of Robbie Williams, as well as those intrigued by innovative storytelling, will no doubt be eager to see how this creative reimagining of Williams’ life plays out on the big screen.

Conclusion

"Better Man" offers a bold new perspective on the life of Robbie Williams, combining innovative filmmaking techniques with a deeply personal story. The use of a CGI monkey instead of a traditional actor challenges the conventions of the biopic genre and is sure to spark conversations about representation and symbolism in film. As audiences anticipate the film's release, it's clear that "Better Man" will be a cinematic experience that goes beyond the ordinary, much like Williams’ career itself.