Film critics surprised by Robbie Williams portrayal in Telluride biopic

Film critics were taken aback during the premiere of a new biopic about Robbie Williams at the Telluride Film Festival on September 2. The film, titled Better Man, chronicles Williams' journey from his time in the boyband Take That to his successful solo career. However, the most surprising aspect of the film is the portrayal of Williams himself, who is depicted as a CGI monkey throughout the entire movie. This unconventional choice has sparked significant discussion among critics and audiences alike. Director Michael Gracey, known for his work on The Greatest Showman, aimed to create a unique representation of Williams, which he described as 'top secret' prior to the film's release. The decision to use a CGI monkey was influenced by Williams' own belief that he embodies a 'performing monkey' when he takes the stage. The film's visual effects were crafted by the same team that worked on the Planet of the Apes franchise, ensuring a high-quality depiction of the character. Jonno Davies performed motion capture for the monkey, while Williams provided the voice, adding a layer of authenticity to the character. Critics have noted that this bold choice sets Better Man apart from other biopics, with some reviews highlighting the film's originality and the unexpected nature of its storytelling. As of now, Better Man does not have a UK release date, but the film's unique approach has already generated buzz and anticipation among fans and film enthusiasts, eager to see how this unconventional portrayal unfolds on screen.