Unconventional storytelling: Pharrell and Robbie Williams redefine biopics
Pharrell Williams’ ‘Piece by Piece’: A Lego journey through music history
Pharrell Williams has always been a trailblazer in the music industry, and now he’s breaking new ground in the world of cinema with his animated biopic, Piece by Piece. Directed by the Oscar-winning filmmaker Morgan Neville, this film uses Lego bricks to depict Pharrell’s early life and rise to fame. The choice of medium is as innovative as Pharrell’s music, offering a fresh perspective on his journey from Virginia Beach to becoming one half of the iconic production duo, The Neptunes.
Pharrell’s excitement was palpable at the Patron’s Brunch in Colorado, where he mingled with high-profile guests and AMPAS voters. “I’m thrilled to be at a festival that rarely showcases animated films, yet chose mine,” he shared. The film was later announced as the surprise patron screening, giving attendees a unique glimpse into Pharrell’s imaginative world.
A star-studded Lego cast
The film features interviews with many of Pharrell’s contemporaries, including Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Timbaland, Kendrick Lamar, Justin Timberlake, and Busta Rhymes—all depicted in Lego form. This creative choice not only adds a playful element but also underscores the film’s innovative approach to storytelling.
Awards buzz and Oscar potential
Piece by Piece is being marketed as an animated music biopic, with Focus Features aiming for recognition in both the animated feature and documentary feature categories. Pharrell narrates much of the film, recounting childhood memories brought to life through animation. This approach is reminiscent of the 2021 documentary The Rescue, which also used limited re-creation scenes but faced challenges in gaining acceptance from the Documentary Branch.
The film’s robust soundtrack, featuring hits from the ’90s and 2000s, is expected to resonate with millennials and fans of the genre. With five original songs, including the closing track co-written by Pharrell, the film has strong potential in the best original song category. Focus is also mounting a best picture campaign, highlighting the need for animation to be recognized in the Oscars’ top category.
Robbie Williams’ ‘Better Man’: A CGI twist on a musical biopic
On the other side of the Atlantic, Robbie Williams is telling his life story through a different kind of animation. Directed by Michael Gracey, Better Man portrays the British singer-songwriter as a CGI monkey. This unexpected twist adds a layer of surrealism to the film, which chronicles Robbie’s journey from his early days in the boy band Take That to his solo career.
A raw and honest portrayal
Robbie Williams introduced the film at the Chuck Jones Theater, describing his life as “fucked-up” but expressing eagerness to share his story with the world. The film delves into his battles with fame, adultery, and addiction, offering a raw and honest depiction of his life. Robbie’s voice work as the CGI monkey is particularly noteworthy, injecting a sense of vulnerability and authenticity into the character.
Awards prospects and critical acclaim
Better Man has the makings of previous Oscar-winning biopics like Bohemian Rhapsody and Walk the Line. The film’s visual effects, sound, and production design are all worthy of major consideration. Robbie’s impeccable voice work also stands out, making a strong case for recognition in the voice acting category.
A new era of storytelling
Both Piece by Piece and Better Man represent a new, refreshing way to tell the stories of legendary musicians. By embracing unconventional mediums and innovative storytelling techniques, Pharrell and Robbie Williams are pushing the boundaries of the biopic genre. These films not only offer a deeper understanding of their subjects but also challenge audiences to see the world through a different lens.
In a year where artists are more vulnerable than ever, these films provide a much-needed breath of fresh air. They remind us that there are countless ways to tell a story, and sometimes, the most unexpected methods can be the most powerful.
For more information and to watch the trailers, visit the links below: