#TIFF24: “BETTER MAN” REVIEW

By Mr. Will Wong

If you loved Michael Gracey‘s THE GREATEST SHOWMAN, there is plenty to love about Robbie Williams’ lively Biopic-Musical BETTER MAN.

While Robbie Williams dominated the Pop world internationally in the early 2000s, often he was a tabloid fixture. The former Take That member went on to achieve superstardom around the world after going solo and this dazzling spectacle manages to balance high energy with Williams‘ personal struggles including being bullied as a boy, his relationship with his father, his failed relationship with Nicole Appleton, to his battle with drug and alcohol addiction.

Though presenting as a monkey the entire film, Jonno Davies channels Williams’ essence perfectly and is fantastic nailing the physicality of the role in some ofthe Film’s demanding dance numbers. This decision helps visualize Williams‘ feelings of self-deprecation and inner voices constantly telling him he isn’t worthy.

We did feel the pacing was a bit rushed towards the end as Williams begins to face his demons and work on his relationship with his father, whereas much of the focus is spent on his trouble times. BETTER MAN still is a triumph for this icon and his fans, hitting the right notes late in a big finish and visually looking spectacular.

BETTER MAN screens at TIFF ’24:

Monday, September 9
Roy Thomson Hall
5:30 pm

Tuesday, September 10
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
4:45 pm

Thursday, September 12
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
5:30 pm

Saturday, September 14
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
5:00 pm