Better Man proves that even the most tired genre, the music biopic, can be revitalized with bold creative vision. Thanks to Michael Gracey’s daring direction, whose commitment to fully embracing the musical genre is matched by Robbie Williams’ generosity in exposing his vulnerabilities, the film breathes new life into a formula that had long grown stale.
Tasked with telling the story of British superstar Robbie Williams (who never truly broke through in the Americas), Gracey, whose The Greatest Showman I personally disliked, does two things exceptionally well that elevate Better Man to greatness: he truly takes advantage of the musical genre, using songs not just as decoration but as essential storytelling, capturing emotional depth that dialogue alone couldn’t reach, and he takes a major creative risk by “casting” a CGI monkey as Williams. The idea, based on Williams describing himself as a “performing monkey” during their conversations, allows Gracey to center the film around an avatar that feels emotionally authentic, while everyone else in the story still sees him as normal. Williams narrates the film, while Jonno Davies provides the motion-capture performance, a choice that sounds absurd but works beautifully.
On the surface, Better Man follows the typical biopic beats of discovery, fame, and downfall. But because there’s no actor mimicking Williams for awards-season attention, and because the technology frees the story from strict realism, the film is able to dive deep into Williams’ inner life. Surprisingly, it becomes a rich, emotional study of fame, celebrity, loneliness, and insecurity. It captures something powerful that Williams admits in the film: that his life, emotionally, seemed to stop during his teenage years. His struggles with self-worth, his fractured relationship with his father, and his persistent sadness, even while bringing joy to millions, are depicted with rare honesty.
Like Elton John in Rocketman, Robbie Williams is fearless in exposing his vulnerabilities. The film doesn’t shy away from the familiar tropes—drug use, betrayals, the crash from stardom, but it shines brightest in the smaller, human moments: the guilt he carries over an abortion, the pain of losing a grandmother, the loneliness he could never fix. Williams’ openness gives Better Man a raw emotional authenticity that most biopics never reach.
Michael Gracey deserves major credit, not just for his empathy toward Williams, but for his storytelling instincts, especially during the musical sequences. One highlight is the performance of “She’s the One,” where a romance blooms and shatters without a single word, rivaling the emotional storytelling of the “Married Life” montage from Up. Gracey also brings a fantastical edge to the film, delivering extravagant musical numbers that rival the spectacle of Moulin Rouge, with the “Rock DJ” sequence standing among the best musical moments ever put on screen. Even an action sequence (yes, an action sequence)feels fresh and thrilling, ranking among the best fight scenes of 2024.
The visual effects by Weta Digital (the team behind Avatar and Planet of the Apes) are phenomenal. The CGI monkey is expressive, convincing, and full of personality, especially during the dance sequences. It’s a visual gamble that pays off with surprising emotional power.
Backed by lush, vibrant cinematography, long, intricate takes, and Batu Sener’s stunning orchestral arrangements, Better Man pulses with energy and emotion. The musical numbers soar, from the aching beauty of “Angels” to the infectious rush of “Let Me Entertain You”, and even the quieter moments feel rich and alive.
Better Man shows that even the most worn-out genres can be reborn through fearless creativity. Michael Gracey hasn’t just crafted a celebration of Robbie Williams’ career, he’s redefined what a music biopic can be. It’s a dazzling, emotional triumph, and one of the best surprises of the year.