The Director’s Cut - A DGA Podcast Better Man with Michael Gracey and Jason Reitman (Ep. 528)
Jan 24, 2025
Michael Gracey, known for his innovative films like The Greatest Showman, joins Jason Reitman to discuss his latest project, Better Man. They explore the unique choice of using a CGI monkey to narrate Robbie Williams' story, blending fantasy and reality with emotional depth. Gracey shares insights on the creative challenges of choreographing the Regent Street musical number amidst real-world disruptions. The duo also dives into how music enhances storytelling, showcasing the delicate balance of emotion in film that keeps audiences engaged.
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The Performing Monkey
- Michael Gracey used a CGI monkey to portray Robbie Williams, enhancing emotional depth and exploring his internal and external life.
- Williams' life was a performance, even in childhood, shoplifting for street cred but charging items to his nan's account.
Heightened Reality
- Jason Reitman noted the heightened reality of musicals allows for exploring extreme emotions.
- The monkey in "Better Man" facilitates this by enabling audiences to connect with deeper levels of emotion.
Visual Storytelling
- Gracey meticulously planned scenes, matching lyrics with visuals and incorporating real-life events.
- In the "Come Undone" sequence, the car crash symbolizes Williams' internal struggles and features girls representing the real-life fan reactions to his departure from Take That.