LONDON – The turbulent life story of British singer-songwriter Robbie Williams served as inspiration for the musical movie Higher Man, during which the pop star is portrayed as a CGI monkey.
The semi-autobiographical drama follows Williams' journey from childhood to international stardom. Musician DJ Angels and Rock, whose greatest hits are included into the movie, voices the principle character.
Attending the movie's London premiere on Wednesday (Nov 27), Williams, who was additionally the topic of a Netflix documentary final yr, stated sharing her story was straightforward.
“I by no means cease speaking about my previous. That's how I socialize. You inform me about your childhood trauma, I let you know about my childhood trauma and we get alongside. It's regular for me,” Williams, who turned 50. in February, he stated.
“Music heals, leisure heals. And I hope that indirectly this film is a therapeutic course of for individuals. I do know it's a giant ambition and a few individuals at dwelling would possibly say 'ugh, okay, after all,' however I imply it.”
Higher Man sees a teenage Williams becoming a member of 90s boy band Take That, his substance abuse and differing views lead him to go away the group and launch a profitable solo profession, whereas crippled by despair and dependancy.
It additionally describes the ups and downs of his relationship with All Saints singer Nicole Appleton and feuds with Take That's Gary Barlow and Oasis brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher.
Directed and co-written by The Best Showman filmmaker Michael Gracey, Higher Man was born from a collection of casual interviews at Williams' recording studio that weren’t initially meant for a movie.
The concept for the movie's uncommon strategy got here naturally, Gracey stated. The CGI model of Williams in jumpsuit is performed by actor Jonno Davies, who wore a efficiency seize swimsuit all through filming.
“For somebody who sees himself as an performing monkey, it made loads of sense,” Gracey stated. “I feel you see extra of Robbie within the monkey. I feel you’ve got extra empathy for the monkey and I feel creatively that makes it actually compelling.”
Williams, who launched a brand new tune from the movie's soundtrack titled Forbidden Street final week and can embark on a UK and European tour in 2025, teased that extra new music was on the way in which.
“New music is popping out, relying on how effectively the film does. If the film does very well, sooner, if not, later.”
Higher Man begins its international theatrical launch on December 25.
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