- Robbie Williams' biopic
- Creative representation as a CGI monkey
- Moderate box office performance in the USA
Unconventional musician biopics are gaining traction, and Robbie Williams' 'Better Man' is the latest to join this trend. Following Pharrell Williams' portrayal as a Lego figure in 'Piece By Piece,' 'Better Man' surprises audiences with Robbie Williams depicted as a CGI monkey. While this innovative approach aimed to distinguish the biopic, it ultimately failed to resonate at the box office. Critics have lauded the creative execution, but audience reactions remain lukewarm.
Robbie Williams: A CGI monkey in 'Better Man'
'Better Man' features Robbie Williams in an unconventional role as a CGI monkey, a daring choice designed to set the film apart and captivate viewers. However, the bold portrayal did not translate into box office success.
In its opening weekend, the film earned just $1 million, landing in 14th place at the box office, according to 'Variety.' This underperformance is particularly disappointing given the studio's heavy promotion, including Robbie Williams’ high-profile appearance on a US New Year’s Eve show.
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Disappointing at the box office in the USA
In the United States, where Robbie Williams enjoys recognition but is not regarded as a superstar, 'Better Man' struggled to make a significant impact. With production costs estimated at $110 million and US distribution rights costing an additional $25 million, the film has only grossed $10 million worldwide, positioning it as a financial disappointment.
In the UK, one of Williams’ strongest markets, the film debuted with $1.9 million and has reached $4.7 million to date, as reported by 'Variety.'
Critics praise, audiences remain uncertain
Despite its underwhelming financial performance, 'Better Man' has received generally positive reviews from critics, who commend its creative direction. However, the public has shown hesitance in connecting with Robbie Williams’ story. His iconic hit "Angels" peaked at only No. 53 on the Billboard charts in the United States, underscoring the challenges of capturing the American market.
