Better Man

As a Ph.D. biologist, I appreciate the stark “in your face” reminder of our deep motivations: changing the lead character into a Chimp-Human hybrid. Driven by our instincts, we unconsciously fight for dominance, give-in to inducers of temporarily intense pleasure, and slavishly seek the approval of our peers. Yet this marvelous masterpiece says even in the depths of depravity the human’s higher mental/spiritual capabilities can still transcend the rabid animal.As a connoisseur of musicals (having a DVD/Blu-ray/3D/4K collection of them numbering over 800) I agree with the jacket’s claim that Better Man is “The most original musical ever made.” Raw, shocking, and daring to be offensive, it is still awe-inspiring. Magnificently filmed, sweeping in its scope, full of vibrant music, with spectacular numbers, and taking one to places one hasn’t been before… it fully delivers.As a student of musical history and career-arcs of top talents, this is not just an example of redemption but hard won, thoughtful triumph. Yes, the storyline is, sadly, all too familiar: the top writer-performer trapping him(her)-self in a drug-induced hell. But evolution occurs when biology finds a way to persist against deadly dangers. Musical evolution (for both music in general and the individual hearer) is similar: battling one’s (chimp-like) demons to be defeated or find some way to tame them. Though the main character is still smoking the cancer-inducing tobacco at the end (yes, “we’re human,” never achieving complete victory) the greatest threat is overcome: the animal state of our own hearts. What are we really trying to achieve? Here are vivid examples of profound answers, both negative and positive…And finally, as a male American I came to this musical autobiography-adaptation with a totally open mind. I had never heard of Robbie Williams. Not being a teenybopper girl enthralled with young or aging boy band members, nor a British pop music follower, I had no idea this giant talent who has stirred millions existed. But I do know about the classic entertainers of yesteryear (like Sinatra), not just from having heard their iconic tunes but having lived and directly experienced their soul-stirring music in my own childhood. The Chimp-Man survives the trappings of fame by reaching into his own past to elevate what’s most important: the joy of pure creation, the appreciation of those one most loves, and giving a break to those who strive (in their own Chimp-like way) to break us.Taken for just its music, plot, execution, and acting, this musical is not just acceptable but great. What elevates it, though, to “unique” is the amazingly realist special-effects animal dragged out of the musical genius, placed garishly in front of everything. Yes, our dark hearts fuel the greatest creativity. We need to admit this. But then we must tame it. For if we do not, then that inner, wild animal will tear us apart. Here is a vivid, spectacular example of how to do it.As an individual viewer, I found that projected in 4K onto a large wall screen with a full surround sound system turned up high, this movie is an immersive experience. For its rich depth and scope, it is worth watching many times over into the far future. It will repeatedly remind us (as all the greatest musicals do, tweaking our heartstrings) of our own dangerous inner character plus its latent possibilities for leading us to triumphs.As individuals or a species, we can devolve or evolve. Rather than an automatic process of nature, this stunning musical shows that to a large degree we can each control our own fate. To all those who were part of making this mind-bending film I have only one word: BRAVO!

I love the " Human Spirit Mentality " , in this movie. Everyone around Him, including his internal voice inside his head, is telling him he can't do it; He doesn't have " IT ", the " Talent " to be a star. Despite all these negative things that people continue telling him he can't and even his self doubt; He refuses to quit and keeps working hard and pushing himself to the Top. Unfortunately in life, there's costs to pay to get exactly what we want; and he pays them, but through His losses he finds Peace and Redemption .....

Didn’t know who Robbie Williams was before seeing this and the trailers made me intrigued, however because of bad, cliche musical biopics like bohemian rhapsody I wasn’t sure how I’d like the movie. Wow this movie is the definition on how to do a music biopic well and making it feel fresh with some familiar tropes. Every biopic they make in the future should take notes from this movie! The release of the movie is fantastic also, picture and sounds is perfection, slipcover art work is exactly what you’d want from paramount presents but in the best way. The only issue is I wish the price would’ve been more of a reasonable price for a 4k instead of full base price but the movie is so phenomenal and the 4k release is top notch it can be forgiven. But this 4k and support an amazing movie!

I have been a fab of Robbie Williams' music for years.Of Robbie Williams the man?Eh, not so much - bit too in your face and rude for me.BUT he does not shy away from that aspect in this and, though I thought rendering him as a monkey would be a mistake - it actually worked.Was a bit saddened it did not take us up to present day when it shows him as a happy, family man but.... he would've had to lose the ape suit I guess.For those who are not familiar with Robbie's music - they will be pleasantly surprised.And the musical choreography to go with it? KILLER!

Absolutely loved this movie. Already watched it a few times since purchasing. The movie is really good. If you're not a fan of Robbie Williams, after this movie I guarantee you will be.Details his rise to fame and the ups and downs of being in the world of celebrity. Its really a must see!!!!

Excelente!!!

Great 4k update with an outstanding atmos track, giving the film a second life on physical media. A must buy for fans.

Too good. Love the MONKEY