The 90s were a defining era for pop culture, with its unique blend of fashion, music, and attitudes shaping a generation. However, as society evolves, so too do the lenses through which we examine the past.
For Robbie Williams, one of the decade’s most iconic pop stars, understanding and contextualizing that time is key.
At the European premiere of his biopic, Better Man, the former Take That member shared candid reflections about his life, career, and the era that shaped him.
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The Complexity of Accountability: Lessons from the 90s
Robbie Williams made headlines when he said, “People from the 90s shouldn’t be held accountable for how we think and feel now.” This statement, made during his interview at the London premiere, strikes a chord in today’s era of retrospective judgment.
Williams explained that societal norms and understanding were different during the 90s. “We didn’t know, and now we do. So things can and will change,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of growth and transformation. He elaborated on how both personal and collective attitudes have shifted over the decades, citing the need for grace and understanding when reflecting on past behaviors.
This perspective taps into a larger cultural conversation. In an age where public figures are often scrutinized for past actions and beliefs, Williams’ words encourage a more nuanced approach. While he acknowledges the importance of accountability, he also highlights the necessity of recognizing the historical context in which those actions took place.
Growth Through Reflection
The singer’s comments also underline his personal journey of growth. Williams mentioned how he perceives the changes around him: “I can already feel it around me, how I am treated and how we treat each other.” His statement reflects a growing awareness of the importance of empathy, a value that has become central to modern social dynamics. For Williams, the 90s were a time of discovery and excess, but they were also a period marked by limited understanding of issues that society now confronts openly.
Williams’ reflections serve as a reminder that societal progress is incremental. The mistakes and missteps of the past often serve as lessons for the present, and for him, this understanding is part of his ongoing evolution.
Better Man: A Unique Biographical Take on Stardom
The biopic Better Man, directed by Michael Gracey of The Greatest Showman fame, offers an innovative look at Robbie Williams’ life. Unlike traditional biographical films, Better Man uses CGI and other creative elements to delve into the singer’s psyche, portraying him as a chimpanzee—a metaphor for his self-perception.
The film charts Williams’ meteoric rise to fame, his struggles with addiction, and his eventual resurgence as a celebrated solo artist. While many music biopics shy away from the darker aspects of stardom, Better Man embraces them, delivering an unflinching portrait of both the highs and lows.
Gracey highlighted this approach as central to the film’s authenticity. “Not a lot of us know what it’s like to stand in front of 135,000 people and perform,” he said, “but strangely, he has this incredibly relatable story.” The film’s vulnerability sets it apart, offering audiences a raw and honest depiction of fame’s emotional toll.
Unpacking the Symbolism
The choice to depict Williams as a chimpanzee is one of the film’s most intriguing elements. It serves as a representation of how he views himself—a performer stripped of human pretense, grappling with the pressures of constant scrutiny. This creative decision underscores the film’s commitment to exploring Williams’ inner world, rather than simply recounting the external milestones of his career.
The film also includes extended dance sequences and revamped versions of Williams’ classic songs, offering a fresh take on his music. This blend of nostalgia and innovation mirrors Williams’ personal journey, as he balances the legacy of his past with his present self.
The Emotional Core: Acknowledging Regret and Redemption
One of the most poignant moments in Williams’ interview was his reflection on past relationships, particularly with Nicole Appleton of All Saints. In Better Man, Williams confronts the pain he caused Appleton during their relationship, admitting, “I wasn’t a great boyfriend, and I feel great shame about that.”
This candid acknowledgment of his faults adds a layer of emotional depth to the film. Williams’ willingness to address his mistakes—both publicly and within the biopic—reveals a man who is deeply reflective and committed to personal growth. He expressed gratitude for the reconciliation he has achieved with Appleton, noting, “We’re good now. I’ve got great love for her, and she has for me, too.”
Vulnerability as Strength
By confronting his regrets head-on, Williams demonstrates the power of vulnerability. This openness is a recurring theme in Better Man, which Gracey believes is the film’s defining strength. “He’s been really able to go to those dark places,” Gracey said, adding that the film’s rawness allows audiences to appreciate the moments of light all the more.
Williams’ honesty resonates beyond the screen, offering a message of hope and redemption. His story reminds audiences that growth is a continuous process, and that acknowledging one’s flaws is a vital part of that journey.
Legacy, Lessons, and Looking Ahead
As Better Man prepares to hit cinemas on December 26, Robbie Williams stands at a crossroads between reflection and celebration. The biopic not only showcases his career but also serves as a broader commentary on fame, resilience, and the passage of time.
Key Takeaways from Robbie Williams’ Journey
- Context Matters: Williams’ comments on the 90s highlight the importance of understanding historical context when evaluating past behaviors.
- Growth Is Ongoing: His journey of self-awareness and reconciliation underscores the value of continuous personal development.
- Vulnerability Connects Us: By sharing his struggles, Williams bridges the gap between celebrity and audience, offering a story that is both relatable and inspiring.
In Better Man, Williams invites viewers to see not just the polished performer, but the flawed and evolving individual behind the music. The film, like his life, is a testament to resilience—a reminder that while the past shapes us, it does not have to define us.
As Williams continues to navigate his legacy, he leaves us with a message of hope: “You can’t know what you don’t know, and we just didn’t know in the 90s. That has to be okay.” These words echo as a call for empathy, understanding, and the courage to embrace change. For Robbie Williams, the journey is far from over—and for his fans, it’s a story worth following.
