Better Man is a 2024 biographical musical film directed by Michael Gracey, featuring Robbie Williams as himself.
The film takes an inventive approach to chronicling the life of the British pop star, delving into his childhood, rise to fame with Take That, and solo career. It also highlights the darker side of his journey, including struggles with addiction, mental health, and family issues.
Here’s what parents need to know about the film’s mature content.
Why is Better Man Rated R?
The movie is rated R for drug use, pervasive language, sexual content, nudity, and scenes of violence. R rating stands for “Restricted” and means that the movie contains content that may not be suitable for children under 17 years old. Parental discretion is strongly advised for any younger viewers considering watching this film.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the mature content featured in the show.
Language
The film contains frequent and strong language. There are:
- Uses of “c—t” multiple times.
- Uses of “f—k” throughout the film.
- Numerous uses of other expletives like “s—t,” “d–k,” “p—y,” “cock,” “twat,” “bollocks,” and “slag.”
Additionally, religious profanities such as “Jesus” and “Christ” are used as exclamations, and there’s frequent use of British slang. A middle finger gesture is also seen.
Sexual Content
The film includes several explicit sexual references and scenes, such as:
- A woman m*sturb*ting a man (framed from the chest up), followed by the man finishing himself off.
- Multiple instances of nudity, including female breasts shown during various scenes.
- Robbie is shown in bed with three topless women.
- Crude references to s*xual acts, such as “head” and “shagging.”
Violence
The movie features moments of both physical and psychological violence, including:
- A brutal and fantastical fight where Robbie (portrayed as a monkey) stabs and decapitates alternate versions of himself.
- Distressing scenes involving self-harm, including a razor blade and a car-related suicide attempt.
- A scene where a door is accidentally slammed into someone’s face.
Substance Use
Drug and alcohol use are depicted throughout the film, including:
- Frequent cocaine use, with multiple scenes showing characters snorting lines.
- A brief but intense scene of heroin preparation and injection.
- Smoking and excessive drinking.
Mature Themes and Disturbing Content
The film explores heavy themes, such as:
- Mental health struggles, including depression and suicidal ideation.
- Addiction and its impact on relationships and career.
- Family issues, including Robbie’s strained relationship with his father.
- An unsettling subplot where a record label forces a pop star to undergo an abortion.
- Fantastical yet unsettling imagery, such as hallucinations and violent confrontations in the protagonist’s mind.
Is Better Man Suitable for 13 years old kids?
Better Man is best suited for viewers aged 15 and older due to its intense themes and graphic content. The film provides a raw and emotional look at fame’s pitfalls, but its mature subject matter may be overwhelming for younger teens.
Official Trailer
FAQs-
Q: Why is Better Man rated R?
A: The R rating is due to strong language, drug use, sexual content, nudity, and scenes of violence. The film addresses mature themes such as addiction, mental health, and family struggles.
Q: Does Better Man show drug use?
A: Yes, drug use is depicted frequently, including cocaine snorting and a brief scene of heroin injection.
Q: Are there violent scenes in Better Man movie?
A: Yes, the film includes graphic violence, such as a fight scene involving stabbings and decapitations, along with distressing moments of self-harm and suicide attempts.
Q: Is Better Man movie suitable for teenagers?
A: Due to its mature content, Better Man is recommended for viewers aged 15 and older. Parents should exercise caution when deciding whether it’s appropriate for their teens.