The Unconventional Biopic: Robbie Williams as a Monkey
In a bold and unconventional move, the upcoming musical biopic "Better Man" features Robbie Williams, the British pop star, as a computer-generated monkey. The film’s director, Michael Gracey, is betting that audiences will be willing to take a fantastical ride through the life of the former Take That member, who has struggled with addiction and mental health issues.
The idea of a monkey Robbie Williams may seem far-fetched, but it’s a concept that has been years in the making. Gracey, best known for directing the smash hit "The Greatest Showman," has been working on the project for six years, pouring his own personal capital into the film.
The Concept
The idea of a monkey Robbie Williams was born out of a desire to tell the singer’s story in a unique and impactful way. By using a computer-generated monkey, the film’s creators aimed to convey the emotions and struggles that Williams faced during his life. According to Gracey, the monkey represents the vulnerability and helplessness that Williams has spoken about in his own struggles with addiction and mental health.
The Challenges
The project was not without its challenges. The film’s budget was doubled due to the use of motion-capture technology, which required the actor Jonno Davies to wear a gray suit and capture the movements of the monkey. The film’s financiers were initially hesitant to invest in the project, but Williams himself was on board with the concept from the start.
The Response
The film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado to a standing ovation, and it will next appear at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Paramount Pictures has acquired the North American rights to the film and plans to release it nationwide on Christmas Day.
The Impact
The film’s impact extends beyond its unique concept. By portraying Williams as a monkey, the film aims to convey the emotions and struggles that he faced during his life. According to Gracey, the film’s use of a monkey will elicit a stronger emotional response from audiences than a traditional biopic.
Conclusion
"Better Man" is a bold and unconventional biopic that tells the story of Robbie Williams in a unique and impactful way. By using a computer-generated monkey, the film’s creators have aimed to convey the emotions and struggles that Williams faced during his life. The film’s premiere at the Telluride Film Festival was met with a standing ovation, and it will next appear at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
FAQs
Q: Why did the filmmakers choose to use a monkey to portray Robbie Williams?
A: The filmmakers chose to use a monkey to portray Robbie Williams because they wanted to convey the emotions and struggles that he faced during his life. By using a computer-generated monkey, they aimed to create a unique and impactful film that would elicit a stronger emotional response from audiences.
Q: How did Robbie Williams react to the concept of the film?
A: Robbie Williams was initially hesitant to sign on to the project, but once he understood the concept and the impact it could have, he was fully on board.
Q: What was the budget for the film?
A: The budget for the film was doubled due to the use of motion-capture technology, which required the actor Jonno Davies to wear a gray suit and capture the movements of the monkey.
Q: When will the film be released?
A: The film will be released nationwide on Christmas Day.
