A captivating new documentary delves into the rollercoaster journey of Take That, one of Britain’s most beloved boybands. Directed by David Soutar, this three-part series, now streaming on Netflix, explores not only their meteoric rise to fame but also the tumultuous times that led to their disbandment and subsequent reunion. Current members Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen narrate their experiences, while archival footage offers insights from former members Robbie Williams and Jason Orange.
The Pressure of Success: Gary Barlow’s Burden
From the outset, Barlow reveals the intense pressure he felt as the band’s primary songwriter. The documentary poignantly captures his struggles, particularly during the early days when their debut single, “Do What You Like,” failed to make an impact. “I felt like I’d failed,” Barlow admits, reflecting on the low point when their subsequent song, “Once You’ve Tasted Love,” also flopped. The turning point came when they released a cover of “It Only Takes a Minute,” which not only revived their fortunes but catapulted them to the top of the charts with Barlow’s later composition, “Pray.”
Yet, the road to success was fraught with self-doubt and criticism, especially when Barlow feared the band members were dissatisfied with his musical leadership. His candid revelations about the anxiety that accompanied his role paint a vivid picture of the pressures faced by those in the public eye.
A Dark Period: Barlow’s Struggles After the Split
The second episode takes a more somber turn as Barlow opens up about his life after Take That disbanded in February 1996. While Robbie Williams was finding fame as a solo artist, Barlow faced a harrowing descent into isolation. He recalls being unable to leave his house for 13 months, grappling with an eating disorder as he watched Williams ascend to stardom with hits like “Angels.” Barlow’s vulnerability is palpable as he shares how the media turned his struggles into fodder for ridicule, with his physical appearance becoming a target for mockery.
In a poignant moment, he reflects, “I’d killed the pop star,” underscoring the emotional toll of the band’s breakup and the relentless scrutiny that followed.
Unpacking Relationships: Barlow and Williams
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Barlow and Williams’ relationship. While Barlow acknowledges his own insecurities within the group, he reveals a surprising detail: he once made a hurtful comment about Williams’ weight, referring to him as “Blobby.” This revelation serves as a reminder that even the strongest bonds can be tested by careless words, with Williams later confronting Barlow about the impact of that comment during their reconciliation.
Their eventual reunion in 2010 marked a new chapter for both artists. Barlow describes how they quickly resolved lingering grievances in under an hour, allowing them to move forward creatively. This emotional meeting paved the way for their collaborative album, *Progress*, one of the fastest-selling albums in UK history, and showcased how time can heal even deep-seated rifts.
The Meaning Behind “Shine”
Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the documentary is the exploration of the hit single “Shine.” Many fans speculated that the heartfelt lyrics were directed at Williams, but Mark Owen clarifies that the song’s essence is far broader. “It’s about me,” he asserts, adding that it encapsulates the collective struggles of all band members. The uplifting message serves as a reminder to embrace self-worth and resilience, a sentiment that resonates deeply with fans old and new.
Why it Matters
This documentary not only sheds light on the personal journeys of iconic figures in the music industry but also reflects the broader themes of friendship, rivalry, and redemption. As Take That navigated the highs and lows of fame, their story resonates with anyone grappling with their identity in the face of public scrutiny. By revisiting their past, they offer a message of hope and healing, reminding us all that it’s possible to rise again, no matter how difficult the fall.
