With Just A Hint Of Mayhem

I have never been a huge fan of Robbie Williams. But having been to see the Robbie biopic this afternoon at the behest of my wonderful wife Catherine (a.k.a Catwoman) I might have to shift my opinion a little. It is a strange film. Robbie is depicted by a CGI chimpanzee. Jonno Davies portrays him in a motion picture performance. He also voices the character along with Robbie Williams himself. The narration also comes from Williams. Given Robbie Williams’ clear involvement, the film seems very open. It provides an honest take on what fame can do to an individual. The chimpanzee is the only non human cast member and for me that is what really makes this movie work. It covers failed relationships, addiction, depression, suicidal thoughts, the dark side of success and death. All the human characters receive some affection and sympathy. However, original Take That manager Nigel Martin Smith gets some well deserved flak.

The scene in which Robbie hears of the death of his beloved Nan and the subsequent funeral is heartbreaking. The use of “Angels” to soundtrack that moment is poignant and tear jerking. I have always disliked that song. However, I may have to change my view after that scene! Spoiler alert, but the moment Williams confronts his demons and slays them in the Knebworth crowd is incredibly powerful. Who knew that a CGI monkey could tap such reserves of emotion and vulnerability. I have to admit that this film has made me check out a few more Robbie songs. I particularly like the new single which plays over the closing credits, “Forbidden Road”. Lyrically it is stunning, although on some parts the music sounds very similar to Jim Croce’s “I Got A Name”. Even if you are not a Robbie fan, this film is worth seeing.

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