Better Man movie (2024) — Robbie Williams’ unforgettable biopic you need to watch

If you’re a fan of Robbie Williams, you probably already know how uniquely brilliant the new biographical film Better Man is — and if you haven’t watched it yet, you’re in for a treat. This is not your typical music biopic. In fact, Better Man stretches beyond conventions to deliver a deeply emotional, wildly artistic, and absolutely unforgettable cinematic experience based on the life of one of Britain’s biggest pop icons.

What is Better Man the movie about?

Better Man is a 2024 biographical musical drama that tells the story of Robbie Williams’ rise from a shy kid in Stoke-on-Trent to one of the world’s most beloved entertainers. It moves through his early days in Take That, his solo success, and the personal battles he faced with fame, addiction, and self-worth.

But here’s the twist — Robbie is portrayed not as himself, but as an anthropomorphic chimpanzee, brought to life with cutting-edge CGI and motion capture. This bold artistic choice visually expresses Robbie’s own feelings of being “different” or “less evolved,” mirroring the internal conflicts that shaped his career and identity.

Better Man on BluRay

Who’s Behind the Film?

• Director: Michael Gracey — acclaimed for his work on The Greatest Showman.

• Writers: Gracey, Simon Gleeson & Oliver Cole.

• Cast:

  • Robbie Williams (portrayed as a chimp via CGI/motion-capture, voiced by both Robbie and actor Jonno Davies)

  • Steve Pemberton

  • Alison Steadman

  • Damon Herriman and others.

The film blends stunning visuals, powerful performances, and an iconic soundtrack that includes reimagined versions of Robbie’s biggest hits.

Release & reception

Better Man had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2024 and rolled out in cinemas around December 2024 and early 2025, including a limited release in the United States.

Critics and fans alike have applauded the film’s creativity, emotional depth, and daring storytelling. Reviews highlight its bold choice to present Robbie as a CGI character — a decision that works surprisingly well to explore vulnerability, fame, and identity.

Better Man movie poster - signed by Robbie Williams

Why Better Man is different (and worth watching)

What sets Better Man apart from other music biopics like Rocketman or Bohemian Rhapsody is its symbolic storytelling. Rather than simply retelling events, the film uses imaginative visuals to dive deep into Robbie’s psyche — capturing not just what happened, but how it felt.

From show-stopping musical numbers to raw depictions of personal struggle, Better Man resonates emotionally with fans and newcomers alike. It’s a celebration of resilience as much as it is a tribute to one of pop music’s most iconic figures.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re a lifelong Robbie fan or simply love compelling real-life stories, Better Man is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Its bold artistry, heartfelt narrative, and unforgettable soundtrack make it one of the most talked-about biographical films in recent memory.

Have you seen Better Man yet — and what are your thoughts on the film?