Often, music biopics are quite predictable, relying on the same old formulas and, frankly, can become tedious. However, one approach to rejuvenate them is to think outside the conventional framework and feature an anthropomorphic animal as the main character. While you might think of a crocodile Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody” or a sloth Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown” as too bizarre, the idea of a chimpanzee portraying Robbie Williams works in an unexpected way in “Better Man.”

Directed by Michael Gracey, this eccentric biopic/jukebox musical (★★★ out of four; rated R; in select theaters now, nationwide Friday) contains the typical elements of its genre and echoes the dramatic misadventures featured in many “Behind the Music” segments. What makes it stand out is the cheeky portrayal of Williams as a wild CGI ape, full of energy and charisma, brought to life through performance capture by Jonno Davies, fitting the fantastical story of the British pop star’s tumultuous career.

The film shares similarities with Gracey’s notable work, “The Greatest Showman,” incorporating vibrant musical scenes that attempt to counterbalance some of the excessive sentimentality and wavering storyline.

Narrated by Williams himself, “Better Man” tells the story of his life beginning with a young monkey playing soccer in the neighborhood with friends – struggling to gain their respect. Just like his father Peter (Steve Pemberton), Robbie craves success and gradually embraces his wild and charismatic side, earning a spot in the boy band Take That. His audacious behavior wins him admiration, especially from his pop-star girlfriend Nicole Appleton (Raechelle Banno) and his fans, but it also alienates others, including his bandmates, manager (Damon Herriman), and members of Oasis.

The film hits its stride in the middle section. Robbie performs “Rock DJ” while his group energetically leaps across London’s bustling Regent Street in the movie’s most impressive scene. As the insecure Robbie descends into a dark place, he must confront the conflicting aspects of his celebrity persona. Issues with drugs and selfish behavior pose significant threats to everything he values, and watching a chimp navigate the chaotic nightlife adds a fresh twist. Still, the family drama feels overly dramatic, leading to a conclusion that may be excessively sentimental. The lively chimp version of Robbie presents a much more engaging spectacle than the more somber moments.

While no one can replicate the incredible performance of Andy Serkis in the “Planet of the Apes” movies, Davies effectively embodies a character that blends human traits with a bit of wildness, contributing to the film’s unique style. The reasoning behind why Williams is depicted as a chimp isn’t entirely clear; he himself has mentioned feeling “less evolved” than others, and during a fight, Nicole refers to him as an “animal,” which adds some context to this unusual choice.

Interestingly, the highlight of “Better Man” is Robbie himself. He performs all the songs in the film – including an exciting new track “Forbidden Road” – and his sharp narration delivers comedic remarks while infusing his animated counterpart’s struggles with emotional depth. When the narrative escalates to absurdity, Williams’ voiceover brings it back down to earth.

While “Better Man” isn’t flawless and lacks the straightforward storytelling that other films like “A Complete Unknown” possess, it never fails to engage. It stands out as perhaps the quirkiest film of its type, unless a sure-to-come Barry Manilow biopic starring a yeti takes the crown.