Oscar-Winning Biopic Features CGI Chimp Playing Pop Icon Robbie Williams

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11, 2025 — The musical biopic “Better Man,” directed by Michael Gracey, now streaming via premium video-on-demand platforms, features a unique twist: a computer-generated chimpanzee portraying British pop star Robbie Williams. The film chronicles Williams’ rise to fame, highlighting significant moments from his life, including his time with the pop group Take That and his battles with addiction.

Gracey’s film, distributed by Paramount Pictures, is available for purchase digitally at $24.99 or for rent at $19.99 on platforms such as Vudu and Amazon Prime Video. Since its release, it has generated critical discussions surrounding its unconventional approach to biographic storytelling.

“When I first watched it, I just didn’t want it to be terrible,” Williams said during a recent interview. “And then it wasn’t. And then I thought it was awesome.” The 50-year-old singer, who once led the U.K. chart-topping group, has endorsed the film’s creativity, despite the unusual portrayal through CGI.

The film runs for two hours and 16 minutes and features a noteworthy soundtrack, available for streaming on Amazon Music for subscribers. The biopic retraces Williams’ journey from his adolescence in Stoke-on-Trent to his eventual solo success after leaving Take That in 1995. Alongside the CGI chimp, actor Jonno Davies provided the voice and physical movements for the character.

Despite mixed reactions from audiences, the film received nine awards, including Best Film, at the recent AACTA Awards, underscoring its impact within the Australian film sector. Jonno Davies won Best Lead Actor for his performance as the motion-captured Williams, and the film’s direction by Gracey was acclaimed.

“This is a perfect example of the powerful and original work from the Australian screen industry,” AACTA chair Jack Christian stated during the awards ceremony. In addition to its artistic achievements, the film’s unconventional technique has sparked interest and curiosity among viewers.

While it is expected to stream on Paramount+ in late March or early April, the official date has yet to be confirmed. For now, audiences can buy or rent “Better Man” online to enjoy this unique cinematic experience.