Better Man is a 2024 musical movie about the life of British pop singer Robbie Williams. It was co-written, produced, and directed by Michael Gracey. The film tells Robbie’s story in a creative way, showing him as a chimpanzee using CGI. Jonno Davies plays Robbie Williams using motion capture, while Robbie’s voice is also featured. Other actors include Steve Pemberton, Kate Mulvany, Alison Steadman, and Damon Herriman.
The movie premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024. It came out in the United States on December 25, 2024, and in Australia and the United Kingdom on December 26, 2024. Paramount Pictures distributed the movie in the U.S., Roadshow Films in Australia, and Entertainment Film Distributors in the U.K. Critics have praised the film for its unique approach and engaging story.
Director: Michael Gracey
Writers: Michael Gracey, Oliver Cole
Cast: Jonno Davies, Steve Pemberton, Kate Mulvany, Alison Steadman, Damon Herriman
Release Date: December 25, 2024 (U.S.), December 26, 2024 (Australia and U.K.)
Distributor: Paramount Pictures (U.S.), Roadshow Films (Australia), Entertainment Film Distributors (U.K.)
The movie follows Robbie Williams’ journey to fame, his struggles, and his comeback. It shows the highs and lows of his life as one of Britain’s most famous pop stars. Using motion-capture technology, the film creatively portrays his story in an unforgettable way.
When Did Better Man Start Filming?
The filming of Better Man began in May 2022 at Docklands Studios in Melbourne, Australia. In November 2022, concert scenes were shot at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The filming ended in March 2023 with additional scenes in London.
Where Was Better Man Filmed?
Better Man was filmed in several real-world locations and studios to bring Robbie Williams’ story to life. The filming took place in several locations in Australia and London.
Docklands Studios, Melbourne, Australia
(Most scenes of Robbie Williams’ career recreation)
The main filming took place at Docklands Studios in Melbourne. Famous moments from Robbie’s life were recreated here in May and June 2022. Docklands Studios Melbourne is a state-of-the-art film and television production facility in Melbourne, Australia. It provides a range of services and facilities to support the local and international film and television industry.
Royal Albert Hall, London, England, UK
(Live at the Albert concert scenes)
Scenes from Robbie’s 2001 concert, “Live at the Albert,” were filmed here. Fans dressed in formal clothes attended live performances on November 6 and 7, 2022. The Royal Albert Hall is a world-famous concert hall in London, England. It was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 and has hosted countless musical performances, including the BBC Proms.
Regent Street, London, England, UK
(Scenes showing Robbie’s British heritage)
The elegant architecture of Regent Street was used to showcase Robbie’s life in London. Regent Street is a renowned shopping destination in London, boasting a collection of high-end stores, flagship brands, and historical landmarks. It stretches from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus, offering a vibrant mix of retail experiences and architectural beauty.
Fawkner Bowling Club, Fawkner, Australia
(Representing Perran Sands Holiday Camp)
This club stood in for Perran Sands Holiday Camp, showing Robbie’s early years. The Fawkner Bowling Club is a popular destination for bowlers in the Melbourne suburb of Fawkner, Australia. It offers a welcoming environment for members and visitors to enjoy the sport of bowls.
Knowlton Court, Kent, England, UK
(Scenes in a historic English manor)
This beautiful Elizabethan manor was used for a few key scenes. Knowlton Court is a historic manor house located in Kent, England, UK. It boasts a rich history dating back centuries, featuring stunning architectural features and picturesque gardens, making it a popular destination for visitors and a cherished landmark in the region.
Belgrade, Serbia
(Concert scenes)
Concert scenes were filmed here, giving the movie an international feel. Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved fortresses and ancient ruins. This vibrant city blends modern architecture with charming cobblestone streets, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
The movie used advanced motion-capture technology to show Robbie Williams as a CGI chimpanzee. Fans at the Royal Albert Hall dressed in formal clothes to make the concert scenes feel real. The filmmakers paid close attention to detail, making sure the movie stayed true to Robbie’s story.
Impact on Tourism
Places like the Royal Albert Hall and Regent Street in London, Docklands Studios in Melbourne, and Knowlton Court in Kent may attract more visitors. Fans of Robbie Williams and movie lovers might want to visit these iconic locations after watching the film.
Final Thoughts
Better Man is a special movie that tells Robbie Williams’ story in a fun and creative way. It’s a mix of great acting, amazing technology, and beautiful locations. The movie is sure to inspire viewers and make them want to explore its filming locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where was Better Man filmed?
A: The movie was filmed at Docklands Studios in Melbourne, Royal Albert Hall in London, Regent Street in London, Fawkner Bowling Club in Melbourne, Knowlton Court in Kent, and Belgrade, Serbia.
Q: When did Better Man premiere?
A: The film premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024.
Q: Who stars in Better Man?
A: The movie stars Jonno Davies as Robbie Williams, along with Steve Pemberton, Kate Mulvany, Alison Steadman, and Damon Herriman.
Q: When Did Better Man Start Filming?
A: Filming began in May 2022 and ended in March 2023, with key concert scenes shot in November 2022.