This is by far one of the most unique gems of a musical sensation I have seen. Better Man is an astounding portrait of the many steps required to become famous along with the plateaus through the eyes of the British pop singer Robbie Williams. The reason he is played by a monkey in the film is because that is how Williams views himself.  This perspective makes Better Man feel real and takes the connection he makes with the audience to a whole new level in an immersive way. The story stays consistently on track and shines with sensational direction. The monkey character effectively conveys a vibe which leads to personal revelations in Better Man. The life of Robbie making his way to fame with the group Take That, then falling into addictive patterns, and dealing with disconnect as various life scenarios caused him to crumble. Each scene of tragedy or happiness loops in a musical number which results in great jams in Better Man.

The plot is a biography with narration from by Robbie Williams. Jonno Davies plays the monkey (and main character). The film begins with the younger days of Robbie, a time when he was close to his parents but faced different issues. After he became famous as part of Take That, he dealt with a slew of addictions—alcoholism, drug-abuse, and other questionable behaviors. The film is a full-throttle ride of finding new beginnings and experiencing revelations showcased in a very colorful way. The musical moments throughout Better Man are purely astounding. The continued narration from Robbie’s real voice brings in an empathetic review of both his accomplishments and failures with strong hope expressed for opportunities to grow in the future.

As the film storyline continues, the depths of his inspiration are explored fearlessly and faithfully. The dynamics of Robbie’s relationship with his father Peter (played by Steve Pemberton) are where the heartache and pain lie. At the same time, there is the chance for Robbie to grow into an even bigger sensation than he believes. His father tells him, “You’re either born with it…or you’re a nobody!” Robbie is more successful than this statement implies as we learn in Better Man.  Robbie’s dreams grow along with his friends in Take That and the support of his first love Nicole Appleton (played by Raechelle Banno). Despite all the good people and connections Robbie has in his life, his own demons keep him down even when he has so much to offer. The sadness is real, but the story also reveals despair can turn into hope.

This film provides a cinematic jolt through music and one man’s true story. The film’s writing covers tons of hardship but does not focus on the negative. Instead, it shines a spotlight on self- improvement by reminding its audience that everyone has a gift—Robbie’s is music. I have had struggles in my own life, and Better Man reminded me why focusing on the craft we love most is what makes us keep building the steps to achieve our monumental moments. It is a musical biography that is unique and exhilarating. I was rocking and I was crying. I was also hoping for one new door to open to a cinematic song where Robbie could reach another positive outcome. Four out of four stars for Better Man.