Today’s quick review: Birdman. Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) is a washed-up actor known for his work on the wildly successful superhero movie franchise Birdman. To revive his career and win back his dignity, Riggan begins production on a Broadway stage drama. But in addition to a temperamental cast, a skeptical public, and his failing personal relationships, Riggan must deal with his own inner demons, among them the prideful voice of Birdman in his head.
Birdman is a stylized drama with innovative cinematography and a touch of magical realism. Birdman boasts a solid script, stylish presentation, strong performances, and a host of subtler flourishes, including a jazz drum soundtrack and moments of fantasy that pair nicely with the film’s grounded setting. The story follows Riggan through the turbulent last days of rehearsal before his play opens.
Birdman’s most distinctive feature is its cinematography. Nearly the entire movie is presented as one, continuous camera shot. The camera follows the characters around as they move from location to location in and around Riggan’s theater. The few noticeable cuts are either well-hidden or elegantly dressed up. Birdman’s skillful use of its camera makes it a uniquely engrossing watch.
Beyond its novel camerawork, Birdman is a remarkably well-crafted film. The script weaves together clever themes, disparate subplots, and a variety of emotional beats to form a colorful and surprisingly coherent tapestry. The details of the story are chosen carefully to enhance the whole. Through it all, Michael Keaton shows a remarkable range, at times a capable actor fulfilling his dream, at times a failure on the verge of collapse.
Birdman’s story is backed by a talented cast. Edward Norton plays Mike Shiner, a brilliant but uncontrollable stage actor who joins Riggan’s cast at the last minute. Emma Stone plays Riggan’s daughter Sam, a recovering drug addict working as an assistant for her father. Zach Galifianakis plays Riggan’s best friend and producer Jake, the one man keeping the show together. The characters are multifaceted, unpredictable, and almost always interesting.
Birdman does have its foibles. The movie’s blend of quirky interactions and realistic drama won’t work for everybody. Its snappy presentation masks weighty themes of depression, aging, and the struggle for relevance. The film’s cultural commentary also dates it, tying it closely to the rise of the superhero genre. Still, Birdman’s baggage is minor compared to its strengths, and even skeptical viewers can easily get lost in its story.
Fans of the artistic side of cinema need to give Birdman a shot. Its vivid vision and polished execution make it an impressive feat of filmmaking and a fascinating watch. Those who prefer flashy action, unadulterated comedy, or straightforward storytelling should approach with caution. Birdman has enough quality to sway wary viewers, but its tone and subject matter give it a very particular kind of appeal.
7.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for interesting writing, a great cast, and strong cinematography.