The music biopic Better Man, directed by Michael Gracey, defies conventional expectations. Instead of a sober reconstruction of Robbie Williams’ life, the movie veers into fantasy territory, blending fact and fiction to create an immersive experience. At its core, it’s not about being faithful to reality but about evoking emotions and sensations.
Williams is played by actor Jonno Davies in motion-capture form, with his face and body language rendered eerily human-like. This chimp protagonist serves as a metaphor for Williams’ feelings of alienation and disconnection from the world. The film’s fantastical sequences – think Aquaman’s Trench fight – add to this sense of unease, emphasizing Williams’ struggles with fame and substance abuse.
While some might find the approach jarring or attention-grabbing, it allows director Gracey to tap into Williams’ emotional experience rather than adhering strictly to historical accuracy. The result is an ambitious spectacle that rivals Wicked in its immersive nature. Better Man may not be for fans of fact-driven biopics, but those who enjoy experimental musicals will find themselves mesmerized by the visuals and energy on display.
The central conceit – Williams as a monkey-man navigating human society – serves as both a gimmick and a potent metaphor for his feelings of isolation and disconnection. With its bold staging and daring musical sequences, Better Man is an experiential treat that transcends its subject’s music or career history.
Source: https://www.polygon.com/opinion/507385/better-man-review-why-a-monkey-robbie-williams-biopic-fantasy