Prime Video has discreetly added ‘best musical of this decade’ that fans declare a ‘masterpiece’.
Robbie Williams biopic, Better Man, is now part of its catalogue.
The film, which hit cinemas in 2024, is now available on the retail giant’s streaming service from today (July 12), much to the delight of fans who weren’t anticipating its arrival.
It offers an authentic account of British pop icon Robbie Williams’ swift rise to fame, his dramatic downfall, and his remarkable comeback.
Directed by Michael Gracey, known for his work on the successful musical film The Greatest Showman, the narrative is uniquely presented from Robbie’s viewpoint, encapsulating his characteristic humour and unyielding spirit.
It traces Robbie’s path from his childhood, through his time as the youngest member of chart-topping boyband Take That, to his unparalleled success as a solo artist, all while grappling with the pressures that come with immense fame and success.
However, there’s a significant twist that was the most discussed feature of the film during its promotional phase at the time of release. In an unexpected turn, the character of Robbie Williams is portrayed by a CGI monkey.
Indeed, the character of Robbie saw a trio of talent contributing their skills in the movie credits. Robbie Williams himself narrated and sang some parts, reports the Mirror.
Jonno Davies took on voiceover duties and motion capture work, whilst Adam Tucker provided additional singing and Carter J. Murphy lent his voice to the role of young Robbie.
Amidst initial bewilderment over the choice to forego showing the actor’s actual face for Robbie’s portrayal, the movie garnered acclaim from both audiences and reviewers upon its debut.
It scored an impressive 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, with the audience rating reaching a commendable 90%. A critic praised the film’s CGI monkey as an innovative hook.
They contended: “Those willing to take a chance will find a biopic that works because any fears of bad casting have been eliminated. What is left is a production with enough energy and originality to send the film world into a dizzying spin.”
Another praised: “Better Man is the best musical of this decade so far”. While another viewer enthused: “I loved it so much I had to watch it again the next day, and now I can’t get the songs out of my head.”
One fan exclaimed: “Better Man is a unique masterpiece. The choreography was superb. The singing and CGI special affects, made this true story come alive. It was a joy to take this journey with a young boy, who was dearly loved and nurtured by his mother and grandmother. Such an inspiring and warm movie. Well done to the team who created such a wonderful cinematic experience.”
Another individual shared their thoughts online: “A true masterpiece and like nothing you’ve ever seen. I am a fan of Williams but even a non-devotee would leave appreciating what an absolute marvel this film is, from the music, the epic dance numbers and the acting this biopic is a stunning exploration into the depths of self-loathing to redemption. Lovely.”
Better Man is streaming on Prime Video.