NEW YORK — After an intensely emotional screening of “Better Man,” a new biographical film about his life, Robbie Williams concluded that shedding tears at every showing wouldn’t be sustainable. He explained that the film affects him in varying degrees, influenced by factors like his fatigue and the audience present. For instance, he described a viewing alongside his band members as a “healing” experience. Despite this, Williams maintains a sense of self-consciousness about his emotional responses.
“When it comes to real life, I’m not much of a crier,” he chuckles. “Having a biography out there for the world to scrutinize can be daunting—hearing people discuss how I cope with it is quite the venture as well.”
Intriguingly, while the voice of Williams is portrayed in “Better Man,” the visual representation is that of a computer-generated chimpanzee. Michael Gracey, known for directing the well-received musical “The Greatest Showman,” creatively envisioned this unique approach to Williams’ story, utilizing advanced motion capture technology with actor Jonno Davies stepping in for the singer.
As “Better Man” premieres in theaters across the country on Friday, Williams hopes it will bolster his recognition in the United States, a territory where he trails in fame compared to his standing in Europe. “If I want to reach out to Macron, I can. If I wanted to contact Keir Starmer or Trump, I might be left with a ringing phone,” Williams laughs. “Perhaps this movie will elevate me, or I’ll find another path.”
Both the film and a chat with Williams reveal unfiltered truths about the realities of fame. Instead of merely showcasing his chart-topping achievements, “Better Man” delves into the darker sides of celebrity culture, touching on issues like addiction and mental health struggles. Currently, Williams has transformed from a notorious figure to a family man, happily raising four children and exploring various ventures, including hotel development and sports team ownership.
“Right now, I feel the eagerness of a fresh artist,” he reflects.
When asked about his association with monkeys prior to the film, Williams cleverly turns the discussion on its head: “In your life story, which animal would symbolize you?”
To which the reporter playfully suggests a chipmunk, prompting Williams to share an anecdote about his friend Joey McIntyre, who jokingly claimed his spirit animal would be an owl. Williams noted the cheekiness of a monkey resonates with his own personality; he humorously acknowledges the more outrageous portrayal of a “coke-snorting, sex-addict monkey” in the film.
The dynamic with animals and empathy surfaces next, as the singer observes, “People often empathize more with animals than with humans. While the story is inherently human, seeing a character as a monkey generates a detachment that allows viewers to connect deeper.”
He later examined the perceptions around well-off pop stars. “Once a story has passed, audiences tend to sympathize. They enjoy narratives of redemption, and mine is no different,” Williams confessed. “I’ve faced my own struggles—my journey has been rocky, but I emerged on the other side, though I still deal with my issues. I couldn’t find joy while battling mental illness.”
Williams reflects on the shared experiences among many in the music industry, hinting at an upcoming documentary featuring boy band members that echoes similar tales of hardship and mental health challenges. “It’s vital to acknowledge the toxic aspects of fame,” he states. “Regardless of the profession you choose, the second half of life involves reconciling with the first, and my struggles were laid bare for all to see.”
The topic shifts to the recent passing of One Direction member Liam Payne, to which Williams expresses his surprise at the infrequency of such tragedies in the entertainment world.
“It’s sad, but I’m amazed that we don’t have more cases like this in our industry,” he said somberly.
Discussing the contradictions of fame, Williams admits, “I love it now. I can’t imagine giving it up. Fame provides me with opportunities to pursue my passions. While I was too young to handle it back then, my perspective has shifted now.”
He emphasized the unique nature of his narrative wherein he is solely responsible for his own portrayal and opinions, free from political entanglements.
His wife Ayda, he humbly contributed, has played a significant role in stabilizing his life through personal transformation. “Without her, my life would have turned out vastly different,” he readily acknowledges, attributing much of his growth to her unwavering support.
As he prepares for an upcoming world tour, Williams contemplated his approach to maintaining mental wellness during the demanding schedule. “I’ve learned that it’s okay to navigate these challenges. The younger, reckless part of me may still be around, but he no longer has control over the steering wheel of my life.”
