S Poddar
The one and only pop star Robbie Williams is soon going to splash onto the big screen in a biopic titled Better Man, promising to delve into the highs and lows of his remarkable career. Helmed by Michael Gracey, the film promises a “fantastical” take on Williams’s journey, right from his early days in Take That through his skyrocketing solo success.
A Cast of Characters
But Williams is joined by an all-star cast: Inside No. 9 veteran Steve Pemberton will star alongside him. Alison Steadman, best known for her role on Gavin & Stacey, will also star. Rounding out the cast are Damon Herriman, who broke onto the scene with his work in Justified, and Jonno Davies, who will star as a young Williams.
More Than a Music Biopic
Director Michael Gracey, who also directed the Pink documentary, let it spill that Better Man would be a pretty different take on the traditional music biopic, the way Bohemian Rhapsody or Rocketman was. It is not all about Williams’ musical triumphs but more of an emotional voyage of a small man who has this big dream.
“It’s this fantastical story, and I want to represent it in its harsh reality all the way to these moments of pure fantasy,” Gracey said. “Unlike some people who were born prodigies or geniuses, Robbie is that Everyman, who just dreamed big and followed those dreams.”
A Relatable Tale
Obviously, Williams’ story is relatable: if not the best singer or dancer, he sold a total of 80 million records around the world. His determination and belief in self, shaken not, are qualities that resonate across audiences of all ages.
“You can identify with the fellow who doesn’t think that he has any particular special talent, when of course, he does,” Gracey said. “What he did have is the will, vision, and confidence to say, ‘I’m going to pursue my dream.'”
A Cinematic Experience
Better Man promises so much more than a biopic. His hit songs will feature in the film, which he re-sings in just the right emotion for each particular moment. With such a talented cast and a captivating storyline with visuals, it’s setting it up to be quite an experience-one the audiences want.
A Date to Remember
Fans can look out for Better Man in theaters from December 26. If one is an ardent fan of Robbie Williams, or just likes a nice story, this movie will not leave your brain anytime soon.
