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Birdman

Birdman

Movie
Genre: 
In Theatres: 
Oct 24, 2014
Grade:
B
Running Time: 
119 minutes
Birdman is one of those films that you ponder what you’ve just seen as you’re walking out of the theater. Serious, yet satirical, the film paints a portrait of a washed up actor struggling to show the world he’s much more than a one trick pony. It’s a technical marvel that explores the inner workings of a man while simultaneously taunting the entertainment industry.

Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) was made famous for his role as the superhero Birdman back in the day, but since then he’s done his best to distance himself from the one-dimensional character, albeit unsuccessfully. His last and final attempt at doing so is producing and starring in his Broadway production, What We Talk About When We Talk About Love, but numerous mishaps like a stage light falling on one of the lead actors the day before Preview Night, have caused Riggan to spiral out of control and make him question himself as to whether he can be anything more than just Birdman.

The film takes place entirely on Broadway and is shot to make it appear like a single continuous take. Birdman is visually spectacular with these extended shots that swivel and weave in-between characters and rooms. It’s all very dynamic and creates a wonderful sense of space. Long narrow hallways, bustling New York streets, cramped dressing rooms; there is always something that draws your attention even when there is nothing particularly important happening on screen.

Birdman’s narrative is another beast that can be overwhelming to comprehend. There’s an absurdity to Riggan Thomson and you soon question what’s going on in his head. At times he’ll move things with his mind or just simply fly around, although he’s the only one who see’s it this way. Whenever someone else is in the room with him, there’s always a more logical explanation for his doings. Keaton does a fine job as Riggan, but the real show stopper comes from Edward Norton’s performance as actor extraordinaire Mike Shiner.

Mike Shiner is one of those pompous actors who lives in the moment of his acting, favoring everything on set to be as real as possible so that he can stay in character. He’s an obnoxious little prick who steals the spotlight, both on stage and in the film. Norton does an absolutely fantastic job.

Birdman is quite out there in terms of its story. Some things aren’t fully explained and other ideas and themes are continually thrown in your face. At times the film even mocks Hollywood itself, saying how the industry favors ridiculous action scenes over something more sophisticated like two people having a dialogue. It’s very brash in it’s approach and that could turn some audiences away. 

That being said, I feel it’s one of those films you have to at least see once. Great cast performances and an even greater cinematography make up for any doubts you might have with the story.Sure, there will be some things that are difficult to understand, but Birdman is not one of those films that so easily spells everything out for you at once.
Matt Rodriguez
Review by Matt Rodriguez
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