In one of the boldest cinematic moves of recent years, Robbie Williams’ life story takes an unexpected twist in his biopic, directed by Michael Gracey, best known for "The Greatest Showman." This isn’t your average rockstar-to-riches tale—it’s a journey like no other, with a highly imaginative, and frankly bizarre, portrayal of the pop icon.
The striking choice to depict Williams as a chimpanzee is the film’s defining feature. Yes, you read that right: for the entire duration of the movie, the on-screen Robbie is a fully realized CGI chimp, played by actor Jonno Davies. Whether grieving his beloved grandmother in rainy Stoke-on-Trent, captivating thousands in electrifying concert performances, or spiraling into backstage chaos with cocaine-fueled antics, every single moment is brought to life through this unexpected transformation. While this might sound like an idea plucked out of left field, it’s a creative gamble that aims to amplify the emotional resonance of the story.
According to Patrick Cremona of Radio Times, this choice takes some getting used to. At first, the sight of a chimpanzee grieving or belting out hits is undeniably jarring. But before long, you find yourself caught up in the drama, swept away by the highs and lows of Robbie’s tumultuous journey. The film cleverly intertwines Williams’ iconic tracks into the storyline with “dynamically staged musical numbers,” adding a rich layer of nostalgia and energy that keeps viewers engaged. It's not just a quirky gimmick; it’s a device that transforms his story into something more universal—a tale of survival and reinvention told through a different lens.
Two things stand out as remarkable about the choice to present Williams as a chimpanzee, says Robbie Collin in The Telegraph. First, no one in the movie ever comments on it. Not his father, portrayed by Steve Pemberton, nor his grandmother, played by Alison Steadman, acknowledge the surreal reality of their loved one being a primate. This bold decision normalizes the absurdity, encouraging viewers to suspend disbelief and focus on the deeper narrative. Second, as the film unfolds, you might find yourself marveling at how well the chimp-actor embodies Williams’ mannerisms and persona. It’s a testament to both Jonno Davies’ performance and the film’s visual effects wizardry.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. While it aims for bold innovation, it occasionally veers into overindulgence. Collin describes it as “occasionally corny, overripe, and self-serving,” but he also acknowledges its undeniable charm. The filmmakers use every trick in the cinematic playbook to craft moments of brilliance, ensuring that even the more chaotic scenes leave a lasting impression. From dramatic slow-motion sequences to vibrant, Broadway-style musical interludes, there’s never a dull moment—even if some moments are a bit over the top.
Jordan Bassett of NME takes a more critical stance, labeling the film a “curious hodgepodge.” The blend of good, bad, and outright bizarre makes for an uneven viewing experience, and the narrative’s ambitious swings don’t always land. Despite these shortcomings, Bassett can’t help but admire the sheer audacity of the project. "You can’t fault the chutzpah or the ambition," they note, adding with tongue firmly in cheek, “If it makes back its reported budget, we’ll eat $110m worth of bananas.”
So, what exactly makes this film worth watching? For one, it’s a celebration of Robbie Williams’ music and legacy, presented in a way no one could have anticipated. Fans of the pop icon will relish the opportunity to see his hits reimagined in vibrant, theatrical set pieces. And even those unfamiliar with his discography might find themselves drawn into the raw, emotional beats of his story. The depiction of his struggles with fame, addiction, and self-doubt is deeply human, even if told through the lens of a CGI chimp.
Moreover, the film’s willingness to embrace risk sets it apart in a sea of formulaic biopics. Instead of playing it safe, Michael Gracey and his team have delivered a narrative that’s equal parts surreal, heartfelt, and visually arresting. It’s a gamble that might polarize audiences, but it’s also one that ensures the movie will be remembered—whether as a groundbreaking masterpiece or a wildly entertaining oddity.
If you’re looking for a biopic that sticks to the tried-and-true formula, this isn’t it. But if you’re ready to experience something entirely different, packed with unexpected twists, larger-than-life moments, and a touch of the absurd, this Robbie Williams biopic might just surprise you. It’s not perfect, but it’s undeniably bold—and that’s exactly what makes it worth watching.
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