Robbie Williams is about to star in a biopic about his personal life, with an uncommon twist: As a substitute of showing as himself on-screen, he’ll as an alternative lend his singing voice to a CGI monkey.

The teaser trailer for Higher Man arrived Tuesday, with the movie billing itself because the “true story” behind Williams’ life and profession, besides starring a primate. “I’m Robbie Williams. I’m one of many largest pop stars on the planet. However I’ve at all times seen myself rather less… advanced,” the singer explains through voiceover within the trailer.

The monkey itself is essentially voiced and motion-captured by actor Jonno Davies, with Williams contributing as its singing voice.

“Higher Man relies on the true story of the meteoric rise, dramatic fall, and noteworthy resurgence of British pop famous person Robbie Williams, one of many biggest entertainers of all time,” Paramount Photos mentioned in a synopsis.

“The movie is uniquely informed from Robbie’s 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, by to his unparalleled achievements as a record-breaking solo artist – all of the whereas confronting the challenges that stratospheric fame and success can carry.”

In a brand new featurette that accompanied the teaser, Williams and director Michael Gracey additional elucidated on the choice to have Williams’ life story be portrayed on the large display by a monkey: 

Based on Gracey, he requested Williams, “In case you have been an animal, how would you see your self? In your individual phrases, you seek advice from being dragged up on stage to carry out like a monkey. I instantly thought to painting you not as we see you, however as the way you see your self… Together with your voice and that monkey, I’m going to see you and relate to you in a manner that’s going to be extra participating than yet one more musical biopic.”

Higher Man arrives within the U.S. for a restricted engagement beginning Christmas Day, with a wider launch beginning January 17.