The New Statesman | UK politics and culture
Could it be magic?: Inside Britain's boyband machine
Jan 13, 2025
In this captivating discussion, Anna Leskiewicz, a Senior Commissioning Editor at The New Statesman with deep knowledge of British pop culture, joins writer Emma Garland to unpack the world of boy bands from the 90s. They explore the fascinating dynamics of class and masculinity in the UK, alongside the toll of fame and tabloid culture on pop stars. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Robbie Williams, creativity in depicting fame through a CGI monkey in film, and the haunting experiences of former boy band members.
25:48
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Quick takeaways
- The portrayal of Robbie Williams through a CGI monkey in 'Better Man' reveals the contrast between his public persona and private struggles.
- The discussion emphasizes how the exploitation of working-class individuals in boy bands reflects broader societal issues related to class and masculinity.
Deep dives
The Depiction of Fame in Better Man
The film 'Better Man' presents a unique portrayal of Robbie Williams through the lens of a CGI monkey, reflecting his self-identification as a 'performing monkey.' This artistic choice allows audiences to view his emotions and experiences in a stripped-down manner, distancing him from the media's filtered narrative. Critics noted that this unconventional method highlights the dichotomy between Williams’ public persona and his private struggles, which are often overshadowed by tabloid sensationalism. The portrayal ultimately aims to humanize him, revealing layers of his identity beyond the flashy career and fame that defined the 90s boy band era.
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