A Unique Monkey-Effect For The Life Of One Of The Greatest English Singers Ever!

RATING – ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 3/5*

Better Man Review movie Talkies:

Better Man had me baffled at first, especially when I saw a chimpanzee playing the protagonist of the film. It felt highly unconventional and even odd in the beginning. However, the narrative quickly eases you into this unusual choice, and it becomes surprisingly smooth and convincing as the Story unfolds. Since it’s a biopic of Robbie Williams, one of the greatest English singers ever, many would have expected a character-driven human performance in the lead role. But Robbie himself insisted on being represented by a monkey for deeply personal reasons, and director Michael Gracey embraced it as a satirical experiment. The former idea works remarkably well, though the latter doesn’t always land as intended.

As a biographical drama, the film contains all the enjoyable and dramatic templates that fans of musical biopics are familiar with—and they’re decently executed too. It’s the satirical elements and the occasional predictability that leave some loose ends. Nevertheless, the unique “monkey effect” alone makes Better Man stand out as a worthy cinematic experience.

Better Man Story:

Based on the life of Robert, aka Robbie Williams, the Story begins with his childhood, where he is mocked by peers as a loser. His closest bond is with his father, a Frank Sinatra fan, who inspires Robbie to pursue music. After a school performance gives him confidence, he begins writing songs and eventually joins a small-time band that unexpectedly becomes a huge success. From club gigs to chart-toppers, his rise is quick, but setbacks soon follow. After losing a song to a competitor, Robbie launches a solo career that skyrockets him to fame. Along the way, he falls in love with fellow singer Nicole, though their relationship suffers through highs and lows before collapsing. The loss of his grandmother pushes him into depression, forcing him to confront his inner demons. Haunted by self-doubt and obsessive criticism at every stage of his career, Robbie eventually faces his fears in a surreal parallel world. The dramatic climax lies in how he emerges stronger, finally overcoming trauma and self-obsession.

The script is fairly solid, despite an overdose of biopic clichés. Musical numbers are placed at the right moments and add depth to key situations. Robbie’s inner conflicts are presented smartly, avoiding the monotony of generic haunting sequences. Thoughtful quotes like “Songs are only valuable if they cost you something” enrich the narrative, while a surprising mention of Bollywood’s Chura Ke Dil Mera adds a nostalgic twist for Indian fans. Predictability remains an issue, as seasoned viewers of the genre will instantly recognize many recycled templates. Still, the emotional resonance of songs and their powerful contextual placement lift the film above mediocrity. At a little over two hours, the runtime feels engaging and never overstretched.

Better Man Cast:

Judging the lead performance is tricky, since the protagonist isn’t human. Robbie Williams lends his vocals, while Jonno Davies contributes motion-capture work to bring the chimpanzee alter-ego to life. Together, they create something daringly different, even if not conventionally powerful. Among the supporting cast, Steve Pemberton shines as Robbie’s father, Alison Steadman is endearing as the grandmother, and Kate Mulvany makes a fine mother. Raechelle Banno delivers charm and energy in her early scenes, while Damon Herriman, Liam Head, Jake Simmance, Jesse Hyde, Chase Vollenweider, and Tom Budge perform their parts convincingly.

Better Man movie Review:

Visually, Better Man is a treat. Its musical sequences are staged with grandeur, enhanced by lively choreography and vivid stage movements. The editing is razor-sharp, often cutting seamlessly within seconds to build rhythm and intensity. This style of montage keeps the pace dynamic and makes the film visually immersive. While Michael Gracey’s satirical undertones don’t always strike the right balance, his ambitious vision deserves recognition.

In the end, Better Man is a good film—if not a great one—but it dares to step away from the conventional path. The audacious decision to portray Robbie Williams as a chimpanzee is its boldest stroke, setting it apart from other biopics. Give it patience in the beginning, and once it grabs you, the film doesn’t let go. A musically enchanting, visually stylish, and truly unique experience that is worth discovering.