Better Man 4K Ultra HD

"Better Man" is based on the true story of the meteoric rise, dramatic fall, and remarkable resurgence of British pop superstar Robbie Williams (Jonno Davies), one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Under the visionary direction of Michael Gracey), the film is uniquely told from Williams’ perspective, capturing his signature wit and indomitable spirit. It follows Robbie’s journey from childhood, to being the youngest member of chart-topping boyband Take That, through to his unparalleled achievements as a record-breaking solo artist – all the while confronting the challenges that stratospheric fame and success can bring. (Gary Reber)

Special features include the featurettes "Let Me Entertain You: The Making of Better Man" (HD 15:21) and "Monkey Business: The VFX" (HD 32:08) and a digital copy.

The 2.39:1 2160p HEVC/H.265 Ultra HD HDR10 picture, reviewed on a VIZIO Quantum X P85QX-JI UHD/HDR display, was photographed digitally using the Arri Alexa Mini LF camera system and sourced from a 4K master Digital Intermediate format. The picture exhibits a filmic presence with lots of visual effects. The color palette is warm and rich with solid primaries and nuanced hues. The environment is home interiors and performance staging with visual effects. Flesh tones appear natural. HDR contrast is generally excellent with natural black levels, revealing shadows and natural white level illumination. Resolution is revealing of fine facial features such as monkey hair, lines and hair. Robbie Williams's monkey features are incredibly detailed. Backgrounds appear realistic set and clear. Object textures are nicely resolved. This is a unique visual experience that will thrill fans. (Gary Reber)

The Dolby Atmos/Dolby TrueHD 7.1-channel soundtrack features a prominent narrative forward presence that steers the storytelling. Atmospherics are also prominent and enhance the settings. Foley sound effects are active throughout. Sound effects provide effective support and can be intense. Bass is deep and supportive. The music, singing and dancing are terrific, especially that of Robbie, and occupy a wide soundstage. Surround extension is strong and enveloping. The concert performances are spectacular. Dialogue is at times natural sounding with generally good spatial integration and otherwise ADR forward sounding. Dialogue can also be a bit difficult to make out what is being said.

The Immersive Sound element is comprised of a few brief panned dialogue extensions, an atmospheric sound effect, brief bits of music extension, a couple of booming sound effects, a simulated helicopter sound effect, a nuanced concert performance extension with audience roar, and a few other minor effects. Everything is very spotty with long lapses of silence between. Far more could have been developed, such a a full on extension of the music, but was not.

This is a well crafted ear-level holosonic® soundtrack that flows fast, but fidelity is sub par in comparison to other recent productions. (Gary Reber