Forbidden Road

About

Forbidden Road closes the soundtrack to Better Man with quiet grace. Written by Robbie Williams, Freddie Wexler and Sasha Skarbek, the song was recorded specifically for the film’s end credits and became its sole new composition. Produced by Wexler, the track combines folk, pop and cinematic influences, creating what director Michael Gracey described as “a hug after the trauma of the film.”

The song was conceived after Williams approached Wexler following the producer’s collaboration with Billy Joel, asking to work together on a new piece for the biopic. Wexler shared an early acoustic idea that immediately resonated with both Williams and Gracey, who encouraged them to complete it. The final version features finger-picked guitar, brushed percussion and a rich vocal performance by Williams, whose delivery blends weariness and optimism. Its tone of reflection mirrors the film’s closing scenes, suggesting peace after pain.

Initially shortlisted for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards, Forbidden Road went on to earn nominations at the Golden Globes, the AACTA Awards and the Hollywood Music in Media Awards. Though later disqualified from Oscar contention due to a disputed similarity with an earlier composition, the track was widely praised for its warmth and sincerity. Its lyric—“Do you love me now, or did I let you down? You said you wanted all my secrets, so I showed you all my demons”—serves as both confession and reconciliation.

“Michael wanted a song that felt like a hug at the end of the film, something that leaves you with hope. Forbidden Road was always about finding light again after the storm.”Freddie Wexler

Gentle, redemptive and deeply human, Forbidden Road brings Better Man to a close with emotional clarity. Its understated power and timeless sentiment ensure that the film ends not in spectacle, but in calm acceptance.