Michael Gracey on Telling Robbie Williams’ Life Story as a Musical with a Twist

After today’s Telluride premiere of Better Man, the much-anticipated biographical musical film about Robbie Williams, audiences are finally getting a glimpse into the extraordinary life of the British pop icon. Directed by Michael Gracey, the movie showcases Williams’ tumultuous journey from his early days in the boy band Take That to his rollercoaster solo career. The depiction, featuring themes of fame, addiction, and mental health, is a colorful and unfiltered look at a star who never stopped pushing boundaries. Interestingly, Williams is portrayed not by a human but as an animated “cheeky chimpanzee,” a creative choice that has both raised eyebrows and captivated interest.

In an exclusive interview, Gracey shared insights into the creative challenges and triumphs that came with making this film. Meeting Williams at a Telluride brunch, it was evident that the pop star, now sober and healthier, was excited and optimistic about this new venture. Reflecting on seeing the film, Williams admitted to being blown away, using his characteristic self-deprecating humor to question if his reaction was due to narcissism or genuine amazement. His story, including his struggles with substance abuse and seeking validation from an absent father, is poignantly told, making the film resonate deeply on an emotional level.

Williams hopes that the movie will introduce him to a new audience in the US, providing an opportunity to relive the extraordinary success he once had in the UK and Australia. He revealed that his move to Los Angeles was initially motivated by a desire to live anonymously, a luxury his fame deprived him of back home. Now, however, he desires to rekindle that public attention stateside. “I’m kind of desperate for that to change,” he admitted, indicating a readiness to embrace fame once more, but this time with the wisdom and stability he lacked in his youth.

Gracey’s direction brings a stylistic flair reminiscent of his previous hit, The Greatest Showman. The film features elaborate musical numbers, one even set on London’s Regent Street and involving hundreds of dancers. This particular scene almost didn’t happen due to the unexpected death of Queen Elizabeth II, causing significant delays and financial setbacks. Despite these obstacles, the team’s perseverance paid off, enabling them to capture the sequence in all its grandeur.

Getting Better Man to the big screen was no easy feat. Gracey acknowledged that the film’s unusual elements, especially the decision to portray Williams as a chimpanzee, posed significant challenges in securing financing. Many potential backers were skeptical, turning away from the project upon learning of this unconventional choice. However, Gracey’s commitment to this vision was unwavering.

Inspiration for the chimpanzee representation came through extensive interviews Gracey conducted with Williams, who often described feeling like a performing monkey. When Gracey pitched this idea to Williams, it resonated deeply with him. “I’m more of a monkey,” Williams conceded when asked how he saw himself, marking the start of their unique yet deeply honest collaboration.

To bring this bold idea to life, actor Jonno Davies donned a motion-capture suit to portray Williams in the film. Using advanced technology perfected by Weta Digital, the same company behind Planet of the Apes, the team was able to humanize the chimpanzee character, making it an accurate, emotional representation of Williams.

Despite initial reactions of shock and awe when Williams first saw the final cut, he eventually embraced the project, appreciating the raw portrayal of his life’s highs and lows. Gracey noted that he never showed Williams any preliminary footage featuring Davies in a motion-capture suit, feeling that it would be too difficult to visualize the final product. Williams’ eventual warm reception of the film validated Gracey’s risk-taking and innovative approach.

Gracey emphasized the importance of not glamorizing the rockstar lifestyle, instead opting for a gritty, realistic depiction. This decision underscores the film’s authenticity, portraying Williams’ struggles with addiction in a visceral, unapologetic manner. It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from dark places, adding depth to the moments of joy and triumph.

While Better Man promises to be a visually and emotionally compelling experience, it also serves as an introduction for American audiences to Williams’ extensive music catalog. Many of his hit songs, unknown to US viewers, will be experienced fresh in the context of the film’s narrative, adding to its originality and impact.

Gracey’s hopes are high that the film will resonate deeply, not just with existing fans but also with new ones who will appreciate its innovative storytelling. As Williams himself expressed, there is a desire to “show off for America” and be “received with love.” With Better Man, they both hope to achieve just that, bringing a unique piece of musical cinema to audiences everywhere.

Source: ParticleNews