Wow! This film was a shocking surprise. You may have to visit a local independent theater to see it, but it is definitely worth every penny. I originally thought Jake Gyllenhaal would be winning the Academy Award for best actor after seeing Nightcrawler, but I have never seen such phenomenal acting from Michael Keaton. And honestly, I didn't expect him to pull off a performance like this. I probably would have skipped this one if I hadn't read the other critics raving about it. Now, I understand what they meant. It also took some real balls for Michael Keaton to play the role that he did, considering it is partially shadowing his real life. So, what's Birdman about?
Michael Keaton plays a washed-up actor. He was famous for two Birdman movies he did years ago (obviously the Batman films). The entire movie is set in a theater, shot in eight continuous shots. Yes, this was a little distracting to me. I kept waiting for edits, but they barely happened. I went home and researched the cinematography. Eight shots. And I only noticed one. Basically, it feels like watching a play. The actor is trying to put on a Broadway show, rejuvenating his previous fame, but struggling with his identity throughout the movie. Emma Stone had an amazing scene in which she tells him that he is a failure and his glory days are over. Another character, a theater critic, tells him that he is a celebrity, not an actor.
As opening day approaches, a new supporting actor is needed, and Edward Norton is introduced into the film. Just like Michael Keaton, Norton is obsessed with himself and his importance, causing a thrilling clash between the two. Keaton is reappearing into stardom, and he cannot have Norton getting in his way. The Birdman actually speaks to Keaton several times in the film, and even appears a few times as his malicious voice of reason.
What makes the movie so edgy, is that, yeah, this is where Michael Keaton is right now. He hasn't done any movies in several years. He probably misses the gossip about him. Think about it. When's the last time you heard about a movie starring him? He is trying to make his big comeback. In Birdman, he does. Congratulations Keaton. You nailed this one.
Birdman is a fast-paced drama, and it will keep you entertained the entire time. It has its deep moments, specifically when Birdman is telling Keaton that the audience doesn't care about his thought-provoking play; they want explosions and gunfights. The viewer might feel a bit guilty. I know I did. Birdman is a film that cinema has been missing. It will entertain and move you in many ways. Do not miss out on this spectacle. And good luck to Keaton! You deserve the Best Actor award for this one.
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