WOW, JUST WOW! Definitely watching again. For anyone who goes to watch this film you don't need to know who Robbie is or have heard his music, just a heart and empathy. Yes some reviewers can't understand the concept of the CGi Monkey but as Rob says himself , he has always seen himself as a performing monkey and at the stunted age he entered the industry at 16. (Less evolved) This films is shown through his eyes, how he saw himself and how he felt throughout what he lived through; his addictions and metal health struggles. This film is a heartfelt, emotional, fast paced ride through the toxicity of the fame game; some of us heavily crave. If you open your heart fully you cannot fail to be impressed by the hard hittimg backstory. Let alone amazing cinematography, choreography and how cleverly his songs lyrics are intricately woven into the storyline. A true masterpiece Michael Gracey. I am truely grateful that he was not known in parts of the world and this in turn provided him the sanctuary he needed when hounded by the world's paparazzi. (Misunderstood for bridget Jones 2 etc and very sucessful something stupid duet with Nicole Kidman) You should be so so proud of this masterpiece Rob, you told it your way with raw honesty and a sprinkling of humour. The rest of the world loves you and proud you lived through to be able tell us your story.
In this brilliant new musical, the Robbie-as-primate aesthetic somehow makes this biopic more accessible and sympathetic while also acting as a metaphor, reflecting Robbie’s struggles with his self-worth. Better Man is a wildly creative examination of Robbie Williams’ rise, fall and redemption. Its musical numbers (particularly Rock DJ and She’s The One) manage to move the narrative forward while being fantastically fun, visually stunning and danceable. It’s exciting when someone takes a creative chance on something that could have been a rote recitation of events. And it’s supremely difficult to get a film made that colours outside the lines. Better Man deserves all the awards for trying and succeeding at creating a unique and memorable modern musical
Loved this movie and having a similar childhood to Robbie Williams - the humble beginnings and his mum, adoring nan, and the dad that was in and out of his life during his childhood it was quite an emotional roller coaster. A funny, poignant emotional story with the bonus of having fantastic music with lots of lessons to learn from life… I laughed, barracked for Robbie, cried about 5 times - wow what a cinematic ride!!!! Other people watching the movie possibly thought I was crazy but I applauded at the end of the movie and will be seeing this movie again 🙌. I love how Robbie’s resilience shone through to triumph over his demons and become the absolute megastar he is today showing others that no matter what there’s always hope to be a “Better Man” (or Woman) 🤗
My husband and I LOVED this film. We are not particularly Robbie William's fans , though enjoyed his music for sure, but this is one of the best films we've seen in the last 10 years. Spectacular production values and great acting all round. The chimpanzee idea was brilliant and executed perfectly. If anything, we thought Robbie was a bit too hard on himself as there were so many negative elements portrayed, which is incredibly rare in a biopic feature film....but hats off to him for being so brave and open. I'm glad he's settled down now. We're giving this a 5 star, 9.5 out of 10 review. We loved it and are listening to his hits....great stuff.
Once again the ultimate entertainer didn’t disappoint. I enjoyed the raw honesty of how and why the relationship with the other band members fell apart, how he showed the pain mental illness and the destruction/pain caused to others through self medicating (drugs/alcohol) to keep going when his brain was screaming/throwing up hallucinations that he wasn’t good enough and a fraud etc. The scenes that reveal the inspiration for some of his lyrics were moving - I shed a few tears (as did many in the cinema) when he comes full circle and calls his dad up onto the stage. The acting was fantastic- especially as you forgot Robbie wasn’t actually an ape. Robbie’s body doubles (dancers and stuntmen) did an incredible job as the story just flowed. Confronting at times - especially if you have experienced trauma related to drug use, hallucinations, depression and suicide. However, it leaves you with an understanding that if you want to get clean, own your life and what makes you happy, Robbie’s journey to finding his ‘better man’ was well worth watching.
Quite an original idea of not appearing physically but using the face of a monkey, I'm quite intrigued, too bad it's not him or even another actor chosen by him. The soundtrack is impeccable 😊
Ich bin begeistert 🤩 Okay, ich bin tatsächlich Fan der ersten Stunde, schon seit Take That-Zeiten, aber was man hier als Biopic abgeliefert hat, ist der Wahnsinn! Ich kenne also den Werdegang, bin aber super positiv überrascht worden, wie die Höhen und Tiefen, die innere Zerrissenheit und der Umgang der Öffentlichkeit umgesetzt wurde. Die ersten Tränen liefen, da waren noch keine 5 Minuten auf der Leinwand vergangen (und es folgten noch mehr), die Songtexte super stimmig zu den einschneidenden Momenten im Leben eingepasst. Auch Nicht-Robbie-Fans werden viele seiner Songs jetzt mit anderen Augen/Ohren sehen/hören. Der Seelenstriptease und die Darstellung als Affen - ich ziehe meinen Hut, unglaublich gut gelungen, „jeder Schauspieler“ hätte dem Vergleich zu Robbie standhalten müssen und es wäre nie und nimmer gelungen! Muss man gesehen haben, ob als Fan oder nicht! Mann/Frau wird sicher nicht enttäuscht, ganz klare Empfehlung!
Finally got to see it tonight, I didn’t read any reviews as I wanted to see for myself the concept using a CGI monkey to portray Robbie. I was drawn in within the first 5 minutes. I went to 2 of his concerts in Melbourne where they filmed some of the CGI monkey concert scenes in between Robbie performing (no idea at the time he was going to portray himself as a monkey). To see it all come together in the movie was mind blowing. This movie is raw, emotional, sad and uplifting. The Rock DJ dance was spectacular. I hope Robbie and Michael Gracey receive a ton of awards for this masterpiece. My only wish is that Robbie used “Nan’s Song” he wrote for his Nan when she passed away, it is such a beautiful tribute to her.
☆ Großartig ☆ Er purzelt aus der privaten Haustür von einer berühmten Szene in die nächste ... Aber immer aus seiner Sichtweise. Mir hat die Umsetzung extrem gut gefallen. Fantastisches Biopic über Robbie. Tolle Bilder. Die Songs passen zur Seele. Alles wirkt super gut durchdacht. Die Sache mit dem Affen finde ich fast schon genial. Man kann sogar Robbies Gestiken/Bewegungen/Art&Weise erkennen. Wie in einer anderen Bewertung sehr treffend geschrieben wurde: [Der Film bricht mit so einer Wucht über einen herein, dass einem zeitweise der Atem stockt. Bewegend, emotional, ergreifend, erschreckend, brutal ehrlich in die Abgründe eines Popstars schauend.] Bildlich und im Schnitt dabei aber extrem gut umgesetzt. Ich werde mir diesen Film sicher nicht nur einmal angesehen haben.
Betterman, directed by the talented Michael Gracey, is a cinematic triumph that delves deep into the life of Robbie Williams, exploring the highs and lows of his journey as a performer. The film is a powerful and emotional ride, expertly blending humour, heartache, and soul-stirring moments. While the CGI monkey is an unexpected but brilliant creative choice, the true genius of the film lies in its exploration of Robbie’s personal struggles, particularly his turbulent relationship with Nicole Appleton, his battle with addiction, and his haunting feelings of never being "good enough." These raw, dark moments bring a depth to Robbie’s character that makes the viewer truly understand him in a way that’s impossible to ignore. As we witness his pain, vulnerability, and self-doubt, it becomes clear that this is not just a biographical film, but a profound portrayal of the inner turmoil that many performers and individuals face behind the public persona. You can’t help but feel a deep empathy for Robbie, wanting to reach out and hug him as you realise the weight of what he has carried in his life. The film's ability to capture these intimate struggles, while also infusing moments of joy and humour, creates a layered, multidimensional portrayal of a man who has been both an iconic star and a deeply conflicted soul. The use of the CGI monkey, though whimsical at first, becomes a metaphor for Robbie's inner battles-something that may seem light-hearted on the surface but carries profound meaning beneath. By the end of Betterman, you are left not just reflecting on the life of this incredible CGI monkey, but also on the real-life complexities of Robbie Williams. It’s a story of redemption, acceptance, and the harsh truths behind fame. This film will stay with you long after the credits roll, a poignant reminder that even our darkest moments can be shared with the world in ways that help us heal. This film deserves award after award!!! It is truly exceptional and whether you are a Rob fan or not, this is a must see!!
Das war ein ganz fantastischer Film über Robbies Werdegang. Ich bin ein absoluter Fan von Ihm und war etwas skeptisch diesem Film gegenüber. Die Affenfigur war absolut authentisch und hat von eventuellen fiktiven Figuren, die ihn eventuell dargestellt hätten abgelenkt. Ich habe Rocket Man von Elton John und Bohemian Rapsodie von Queen gesehen und es war immer so, dass man vergleicht hat. Ich konnte mich 100% auf Robbie einstellen. Es war mega emotional und authentisch dargestellt. Super Idee mit dem Affen. Er fühlte sich wahrscheinlich genau so in seiner Thake That Zeit so...als 🐵 Es war mega emotional und sentimental. Ich war ständig mit Tränen und grinsen abwechselnd beschäftigt. Ein ganz toller Film. Auch für nicht Robbie Fans. Das emotionale auf und ab von mega Stars mit Drogen und Erfolgsdruck. Ein toller Eindruck in diese Szene. Ich liebe Robbie und wünsche ihm nur das Beste für sein Leben und bin froh, dass er die Kurve geschafft hat. Ich hatte wirklich Sorgen, dass er sein Leben nicht in den Griff bekommt. Der Beste Film seit Jahren! Super gut und unbedingt ansehen.
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WOW, JUST WOW! Definitely watching again.
For anyone who goes to watch this film you don't need to know who Robbie is or have heard his music, just a heart and empathy.
Yes some reviewers can't understand the concept of the CGi Monkey but as Rob says himself , he has always seen himself as a performing monkey and at the stunted age he entered the industry at 16. (Less evolved)
This films is shown through his eyes, how he saw himself and how he felt throughout what he lived through; his addictions and metal health struggles.
This film is a heartfelt, emotional, fast paced ride through the toxicity of the fame game; some of us heavily crave.
If you open your heart fully you cannot fail to be impressed by the hard hittimg backstory. Let alone amazing cinematography, choreography and how cleverly his songs lyrics are intricately woven into the storyline. A true masterpiece Michael Gracey.
I am truely grateful that he was not known in parts of the world and this in turn provided him the sanctuary he needed when hounded by the world's paparazzi. (Misunderstood for bridget Jones 2 etc and very sucessful something stupid duet with Nicole Kidman)
You should be so so proud of this masterpiece Rob, you told it your way with raw honesty and a sprinkling of humour.
The rest of the world loves you and proud you lived through to be able tell us your story.
In this brilliant new musical, the Robbie-as-primate aesthetic somehow makes this biopic more accessible and sympathetic while also acting as a metaphor, reflecting Robbie’s struggles with his self-worth.
Better Man is a wildly creative examination of Robbie Williams’ rise, fall and redemption. Its musical numbers (particularly Rock DJ and She’s The One) manage to move the narrative forward while being fantastically fun, visually stunning and danceable.
It’s exciting when someone takes a creative chance on something that could have been a rote recitation of events. And it’s supremely difficult to get a film made that colours outside the lines. Better Man deserves all the awards for trying and succeeding at creating a unique and memorable modern musical
I can't wait to go see the film in the cinema next week, thanks for posting the soundtrack :)
You're welcome ;)
Loved this movie and having a similar childhood to Robbie Williams - the humble beginnings and his mum, adoring nan, and the dad that was in and out of his life during his childhood it was quite an emotional roller coaster. A funny, poignant emotional story with the bonus of having fantastic music with lots of lessons to learn from life… I laughed, barracked for Robbie, cried about 5 times - wow what a cinematic ride!!!! Other people watching the movie possibly thought I was crazy but I applauded at the end of the movie and will be seeing this movie again 🙌. I love how Robbie’s resilience shone through to triumph over his demons and become the absolute megastar he is today showing others that no matter what there’s always hope to be a “Better Man” (or Woman) 🤗
My husband and I LOVED this film. We are not particularly Robbie William's fans , though enjoyed his music for sure, but this is one of the best films we've seen in the last 10 years.
Spectacular production values and great acting all round. The chimpanzee idea was brilliant and executed perfectly.
If anything, we thought Robbie was a bit too hard on himself as there were so many negative elements portrayed, which is incredibly rare in a biopic feature film....but hats off to him for being so brave and open.
I'm glad he's settled down now.
We're giving this a 5 star, 9.5 out of 10 review. We loved it and are listening to his hits....great stuff.
Once again the ultimate entertainer didn’t disappoint. I enjoyed the raw honesty of how and why the relationship with the other band members fell apart, how he showed the pain mental illness and the destruction/pain caused to others through self medicating (drugs/alcohol) to keep going when his brain was screaming/throwing up hallucinations that he wasn’t good enough and a fraud etc. The scenes that reveal the inspiration for some of his lyrics were moving - I shed a few tears (as did many in the cinema) when he comes full circle and calls his dad up onto the stage. The acting was fantastic- especially as you forgot Robbie wasn’t actually an ape. Robbie’s body doubles (dancers and stuntmen) did an incredible job as the story just flowed. Confronting at times - especially if you have experienced trauma related to drug use, hallucinations, depression and suicide. However, it leaves you with an understanding that if you want to get clean, own your life and what makes you happy, Robbie’s journey to finding his ‘better man’ was well worth watching.
Quite an original idea of not appearing physically but using the face of a monkey, I'm quite intrigued, too bad it's not him or even another actor chosen by him. The soundtrack is impeccable 😊
What are your favorite songs from the “Better Man” album ?
Ich bin begeistert 🤩 Okay, ich bin tatsächlich Fan der ersten Stunde, schon seit Take That-Zeiten, aber was man hier als Biopic abgeliefert hat, ist der Wahnsinn!
Ich kenne also den Werdegang, bin aber super positiv überrascht worden, wie die Höhen und Tiefen, die innere Zerrissenheit und der Umgang der Öffentlichkeit umgesetzt wurde.
Die ersten Tränen liefen, da waren noch keine 5 Minuten auf der Leinwand vergangen (und es folgten noch mehr), die Songtexte super stimmig zu den einschneidenden Momenten im Leben eingepasst. Auch Nicht-Robbie-Fans werden viele seiner Songs jetzt mit anderen Augen/Ohren sehen/hören.
Der Seelenstriptease und die Darstellung als Affen - ich ziehe meinen Hut, unglaublich gut gelungen, „jeder Schauspieler“ hätte dem Vergleich zu Robbie standhalten müssen und es wäre nie und nimmer gelungen!
Muss man gesehen haben, ob als Fan oder nicht! Mann/Frau wird sicher nicht enttäuscht, ganz klare Empfehlung!
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Finally got to see it tonight, I didn’t read any reviews as I wanted to see for myself the concept using a CGI monkey to portray Robbie. I was drawn in within the first 5 minutes.
I went to 2 of his concerts in Melbourne where they filmed some of the CGI monkey concert scenes in between Robbie performing (no idea at the time he was going to portray himself as a monkey). To see it all come together in the movie was mind blowing.
This movie is raw, emotional, sad and uplifting. The Rock DJ dance was spectacular. I hope Robbie and Michael Gracey receive a ton of awards for this masterpiece.
My only wish is that Robbie used “Nan’s Song” he wrote for his Nan when she passed away, it is such a beautiful tribute to her.
☆ Großartig ☆
Er purzelt aus der privaten Haustür von einer berühmten Szene in die nächste ... Aber immer aus seiner Sichtweise. Mir hat die Umsetzung extrem gut gefallen. Fantastisches Biopic über Robbie. Tolle Bilder. Die Songs passen zur Seele. Alles wirkt super gut durchdacht. Die Sache mit dem Affen finde ich fast schon genial. Man kann sogar Robbies Gestiken/Bewegungen/Art&Weise erkennen.
Wie in einer anderen Bewertung sehr treffend geschrieben wurde:
[Der Film bricht mit so einer Wucht über einen herein, dass einem zeitweise der Atem stockt. Bewegend, emotional, ergreifend, erschreckend, brutal ehrlich in die Abgründe eines Popstars schauend.]
Bildlich und im Schnitt dabei aber extrem gut umgesetzt.
Ich werde mir diesen Film sicher nicht nur einmal angesehen haben.
My favorite tracks are : Rock DJ, Relight My Fire, Come Undone, She's The One, Something Beautiful, Angels. Love him ❤
Betterman, directed by the talented Michael Gracey, is a cinematic triumph that delves deep into the life of Robbie Williams, exploring the highs and lows of his journey as a performer. The film is a powerful and emotional ride, expertly blending humour, heartache, and soul-stirring moments. While the CGI monkey is an unexpected but brilliant creative choice, the true genius of the film lies in its exploration of Robbie’s personal struggles, particularly his turbulent relationship with Nicole Appleton, his battle with addiction, and his haunting feelings of never being "good enough."
These raw, dark moments bring a depth to Robbie’s character that makes the viewer truly understand him in a way that’s impossible to ignore. As we witness his pain, vulnerability, and self-doubt, it becomes clear that this is not just a biographical film, but a profound portrayal of the inner turmoil that many performers and individuals face behind the public persona. You can’t help but feel a deep empathy for Robbie, wanting to reach out and hug him as you realise the weight of what he has carried in his life.
The film's ability to capture these intimate struggles, while also infusing moments of joy and humour, creates a layered, multidimensional portrayal of a man who has been both an iconic star and a deeply conflicted soul. The use of the CGI monkey, though whimsical at first, becomes a metaphor for Robbie's inner battles-something that may seem light-hearted on the surface but carries profound meaning beneath.
By the end of Betterman, you are left not just reflecting on the life of this incredible CGI monkey, but also on the real-life complexities of Robbie Williams. It’s a story of redemption, acceptance, and the harsh truths behind fame. This film will stay with you long after the credits roll, a poignant reminder that even our darkest moments can be shared with the world in ways that help us heal.
This film deserves award after award!!! It is truly exceptional and whether you are a Rob fan or not, this is a must see!!
Das war ein ganz fantastischer Film über Robbies Werdegang.
Ich bin ein absoluter Fan von Ihm und war etwas skeptisch diesem Film gegenüber.
Die Affenfigur war absolut authentisch und hat von eventuellen fiktiven Figuren, die ihn eventuell dargestellt hätten abgelenkt. Ich habe Rocket Man von Elton John und Bohemian Rapsodie von Queen gesehen und es war immer so, dass man vergleicht hat. Ich konnte mich 100% auf Robbie einstellen. Es war mega emotional und authentisch dargestellt.
Super Idee mit dem Affen. Er fühlte sich wahrscheinlich genau so in seiner Thake That Zeit so...als 🐵
Es war mega emotional und sentimental. Ich war ständig mit Tränen und grinsen abwechselnd beschäftigt.
Ein ganz toller Film. Auch für nicht Robbie Fans. Das emotionale auf und ab von mega Stars mit Drogen und Erfolgsdruck. Ein toller Eindruck in diese Szene.
Ich liebe Robbie und wünsche ihm nur das Beste für sein Leben und bin froh, dass er die Kurve geschafft hat. Ich hatte wirklich Sorgen, dass er sein Leben nicht in den Griff bekommt.
Der Beste Film seit Jahren!
Super gut und unbedingt ansehen.