In a captivating new documentary series on Netflix, the iconic British boyband Take That opens up about their tumultuous journey through fame, fortune, and personal strife. Directed by David Soutar, known for his compelling work on *Bros: After the Screaming Stops*, this three-part series delves beyond the glitzy headlines to reveal the complex emotional landscape that defined the band’s rise, fall, and eventual resurgence.
Revisiting the Take That Saga
For those familiar with the Take That story, it may seem like a familiar narrative: five young men catapulted to fame in the nineties, a tempestuous split, and a later reunion that saw them reclaim their place in the pop landscape. However, this documentary promises to expose the lesser-known chapters of their saga. Soutar emphasises the importance of honesty in storytelling, stating, “There are twists and turns in there that people don’t really know or have forgotten.”
This is not your usual music documentary. With the current trio—Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen—relinquishing creative control, the film transcends typical band narratives. “The audience can sense if a band’s had their hand in it,” explains Soutar, insisting that their raw and unfiltered story be told.
A Deep Dive into Personal Struggles
The documentary does not shy away from the painful experiences that shaped the band members. Barlow, Donald, and Owen reflect on their struggles with self-worth, jealousy, and the pressures of fame. As they recount their lows, including Barlow’s battle with weight and self-image, the film captures the emotional toll of their public personas. “It was a tricky thing to relive those moments,” Barlow admits, expressing the difficulty of revisiting a time marked by insecurity and personal demons.
The first episode transports viewers back to the band’s formation in 1990, showcasing how Barlow, alongside four other hopefuls, was moulded into the UK’s answer to New Kids on the Block. Footage from old tapes, many of which were filmed by Donald himself, provides a candid look at their early days. Soutar notes, “They had a videographer before anyone else!” This behind-the-scenes glimpse reveals their initial struggles to connect with fans, the missteps, and the eventual breakthrough that launched them to superstardom.
The Cracks Start to Show
As Take That ascended to pop royalty, the pressure began to fracture the group. The documentary lays bare the growing tensions between members, particularly between Barlow and Robbie Williams, who battled for recognition and affection from their manager, Nigel Martin-Smith. With the relentless scrutiny of fans and media, the fun of fame turned into a burden, leading to Williams’ departure in 1995.
Barlow’s journey following the split was marked by his own failures, compounded by the success of Williams’ solo career. The documentary poignantly captures Barlow’s descent into despair, highlighting the impact of public ridicule and personal insecurity. “I went on this mission… I’d killed the pop star,” he reflects, poignantly discussing his struggles with bulimia and the weight of expectations.
The Resurgence of Take That
The narrative culminates in the band’s remarkable comeback in 2005, minus Williams, showcasing their evolution into a more mature and unified entity. Soutar illustrates how the band members sought to redefine themselves, seeking to create music that resonated authentically with their experiences. Their reunion with Williams in 2010 marked a poignant moment of reconciliation, allowing them to confront past grievances and move towards a shared future.
The documentary’s final episodes highlight their transformation from “national jokes to national treasures,” as Soutar describes. Take That’s resilience in the face of adversity speaks volumes about their character and the enduring bond they share. “We needed to come back as equals,” Owen emphasises, capturing the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that characterises their current dynamic.
Why it Matters
This documentary transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a testament to the complexities of fame and the human condition. It highlights the price of celebrity while shedding light on the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in navigating personal and professional relationships. Take That’s story is not just about a boyband—it’s about redemption, resilience, and the power of friendship in a world that often seeks to tear us apart. As audiences watch the band reclaim their narrative, they may find echoes of their own struggles and triumphs, making this documentary a must-watch for anyone who has ever faced adversity.
