Robbie Williams on why Better Man film is a ‘healing process’, and sharing trauma
The singer reflects on why sharing his story came easy, his hopes for the film and how Better Man will affect the roll-out of his new music
British singer-songwriter Robbie Williams’ turbulent life story served as inspiration for the musical movie Better Man, in which the pop star is portrayed as a CGI monkey.
The semi-autobiographical drama follows Williams’ journey from childhood to global stardom. The “Angels” and “Rock DJ” musician, whose biggest hits are incorporated in the movie, lends his voice to the main character.
“I never stop opening up about my past. It’s how I socialise. You tell me about your childhood trauma, I tell you about my childhood trauma, and we get along. It’s par for the course for me,” Williams, who turned 50 in February, said.
“Music heals, entertainment heals. And I hope that in some way this film is a healing process for people. I know it’s a lofty ambition and some people at home could be going ‘ugh, OK, of course’ but I mean it.”
Better Man sees a teenage Williams joining the 90s boy band Take That, his substance abuse and differing views leading to him leaving the group and launching a successful solo career while crippled by depression and addiction.
