Robbie Williams: A Deep Dive into His Music Career and the Real Story Behind “Better Man”

Better Man is an engaging musical biopic that chronicles the life of singer Robbie Williams. While Williams is a household name in the United Kingdom, his recognition in North America may not be as widespread, making it essential to delve into his story. Directed by Michael Gracey, known for his work on the polarizing film The Greatest Showman, this film explores Williams’ evolution from a young aspiring artist to a globally recognized music icon.

Robbie Williams: The UK Music Legend

Understanding Williams’ Legacy

For North American viewers, the release of Better Man shines a light on Robbie Williams’ remarkable achievements. As of 2024, he holds the title of the best-selling British solo artist, having secured a significant number of number-one albums in the UK. His 2022 release, XXV, marked his 14th number-one album, surpassing the legendary Elvis Presley’s record of 13.

Williams’ enduring success is largely due to his 30+ year career, which he began at just 16 years old. He has navigated the music industry through both group and solo endeavors, ultimately leading to his involvement in filmmaking with the production of Better Man. His extensive catalog has continued to resonate with fans, making him a music powerhouse in the UK.

The Early Days with Take That

The Rise of Take That

Williams’ career took off as a member of the popular boy band Take That. The first half of Better Man captures his journey from a hopeful 15-year-old auditioning for a stern music manager to become a key member of one of the UK’s sensation bands of the 1990s. Alongside fellow members Gary Barlow, Jason Orange, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen, Williams quickly gained notoriety and established a strong public persona.

Although he never held the title of lead singer, his charisma and unique personality propelled him to individual fame that often eclipsed his bandmates, apart from Barlow. Today, Take That continues to perform, albeit with fewer members.

Robbie Williams: The Solo Journey

From Boy Band to Solo Star

Williams’ exit from Take That came in 1995 amid personal struggles and peer pressures regarding substance abuse. Rather than continue with the group, he embarked on a remarkable solo career that has matched, if not exceeded, his band success. Over the years, he has released several studio albums that have collectively solidified his reputation as the best-selling British artist to date.

Robbie Williams Solo Albums	Release Date
Life thru a Lens	September 29, 1997
I’ve Been Expecting You	October 26, 1998
Sing When You’re Winning	August 28, 2000
Swing When You’re Winning	November 19, 2001
Escapology	November 18, 2002
Intensive Care	October 24, 2005
Rudebox	October 23, 2006
Reality Killed the Video Star	November 6, 2009
Take the Crown	November 2, 2012
Swings Both Ways	November 8, 2013
The Heavy Entertainment Show	November 4, 2016
The Christmas Present	November 22, 2019
XXV	September 9, 2022

Williams’ music, while often categorized as pop, also draws from the influences of classic artists such as Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Better Man beautifully illustrates these musical inspirations and how they shaped his distinctive sound as a solo artist.

Better Man: A Comprehensive Visual Journey

This captivating biopic explores Williams’ journey from his childhood in 1982 through his personal battles, successes, and challenges that come with fame. It not only highlights his music career but also his mental health struggles and the intricacies of his personal life.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Better Man is its unique portrayal of Williams, using a CGI-rendered character resembling an ape. This creative decision reflects Williams’ self-perception and the common metaphor of musicians as performing monkeys for audiences. With Williams himself narrating the film alongside voice work by English actor Jonno Davies, the biopic captures both the essence and the complexities of his life.

The visual effects team at Wētā FX, renowned for their work on iconic franchises like King Kong and Planet of the Apes, brings this innovative portrayal to life, adding a distinct visual layer to the storytelling.

Despite the artistic liberties taken with timeline and dramatization, Better Man serves as a powerful exploration of Robbie Williams’ life, shedding light on both his triumphs and tribulations. For audiences in North America, this musical biopic offers a unique glimpse into the life of a beloved UK artist who has shaped the music industry image for decades.

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