The inclusion of a monkey to represent Robbie Williams results in some genuinely unsettling moments while watching. The film recounts the often-difficult journey of this "Take That" singer, from his early performances in Gilbert and Sullivan productions to securing an £80 million record deal. His father (played by Steve Pemberton) disappeared after going to a football match when he was a child, leaving him with his mother, "Janet" (Kate Mulvany), and doting grandmother (Alison Steadman), living a financially precarious existence that contributed to later emotional problems and difficulties trusting others. Unless you've been completely out of touch for the past two decades, you’ll likely already know much of what unfolds next. What does elevate this film is Williams’s direct involvement in the project; he doesn’t shy away from depicting himself as flawed. His struggles with alcohol, drugs, outbursts, and generally bratty behavior are presented openly, without any attempt to soften them. It brought to mind the recent "Amy" biopic, and followed a viewing of "Easter Parade" (1948), both films serving, in their own ways, to reinforce the story of someone who achieved great fame, fortune, and ultimately battled addiction while surrounded by people looking to benefit from his success—a young man who began his career at just fifteen. It’s certainly not entirely impartial; I suspect Williams's perspective isn't how everyone else would describe their actions or his own—but there is a degree of sincerity that highlights the harsh realities of the music industry and the fleeting nature of fame, especially when those we admire lose their appeal. The film benefits from the fact that many of his solo songs sound great with a cinematic presentation, featuring elegant string arrangements and strong vocals, which serves as a reminder that, unlike numerous forgotten "Take That" singles, his music—particularly what he created with Guy Chambers—is what people will truly remember fondly. It might be intense for some viewers, but it’s still worth seeing.

Source on TMDB