Following the success of “The Greatest Showman,” director Michael Gracey decided to set his sights on one of the greatest showmen of the world (debatable according to its subject) Robbie Williams.  The result is a heartfelt, affecting, and entertaining film about dreams, mental issues, fame, and evolution.

I spent some time with Gracey to talk about his interest in making the film, working with Robbie Williams, and praising the guy in the monkey suit (or animation), Jonno Davies.

“Better Man” from Paramount Pictures is now out in theaters.

Jonno Davies is amazing as the monkey version of Robbie Williams.  At one point in our interview, I told him he’s like Andy Serkis aka Gollum who stole a lot of scenes from “The Lord of the Rings” series simply for being fantastic.  Davies is similar in “Better Man.”  He gives humanity to the monkey aka Robbie Williams.

On the other side of the spectrum is Raechelle Banno who plays Williams’ girlfriend, Nicole Appleton of All Saints.  She is the heart of the film.

I spoke to both Davies and Banno for this fun interview.  We talked about their interests in making the film and finding the heart of their characters.