(Image Source: Paramount Pictures)
The Robbie Williams biopic, "Better Man," which chronicles the life of the former Take That member, has struggled significantly at the global box office since its initial release in various countries around the Christmas holiday on December 25th last year. After more than half a month in theaters, the film has only managed to accumulate just over $10 million worldwide. This dismal performance stands in stark contrast to its reported production budget of $110 million, virtually guaranteeing a substantial financial loss for the project.
(Image Source: Paramount Pictures)
"Better Man" initially debuted in a limited release in select U.S. theaters during the Christmas season, before expanding its theatrical run last weekend. Typically, a limited release aims to build positive word-of-mouth, but "Better Man" clearly failed to generate the necessary buzz, earning a meager $1 million during its wider release last week. The film also underperformed in Williams' home country, the United Kingdom, where it opened to just $1.9 million and has since grossed approximately $4.7 million.
Directed by Michael Gracey, known for "The Greatest Showman," "Better Man" notably employs motion capture technology to depict Williams as a monkey in the film, leading to numerous elaborate and fantastical sequences. While this creative choice undoubtedly contributed to the film's substantial production costs, the high investment has unfortunately not translated into equivalent financial returns.