Movie Review: BIRDMAN Is A 2-Hour Showcase Of Brilliant Directing And Acting.

Birdman

Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu

Cast: Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Edward Norton, Zach Galifianakis, Naomi Watts, and Amy Ryan.

Rated R for language throughout, some sexual content, and brief violence.

No, Birdman is not some new project from Marvel Studios. Some of you may not have even heard of it, but if you pay any attention to the award shows coming up then you are bound to hear about it. In truth there is not much I can say about this film that has not already been said in the hordes of glowing critic reviews. However, suffice it to say that if I were teaching a film class I would show Birdman as a unique and brilliant example of stellar directing and acting. 

Birdman tells the story of a washed up actor, Reegan (Keaton), who once hit it big playing an iconic superhero in the '90s, but has since lost all relevance in the acting community. Now, Reegan is adapting, directing, and starring in a Broadway play in the hopes that he will prove to his fellow thespians that he is so much more than the superhero he once portrayed.

Birdman is incredibly unique and innovative. Aside from the final minutes of the film, it is presented as one continuous shot following Reegan and the rest of the key players involved with his play. No doubt that director Alejandro González Iñárritu used some trick photography to hide any cuts that may have been made to the film. This achievement is not only admirable in its ambition, but flawless in its execution. The entire film is staged and constructed beautifully, and it grabs the audience with complete immersion. I honestly don't know if I've seen a better directed film this year. You have my vote, Mr. Iñárritu.

The acting here is absolutely top notch. Keaton has been getting most of the attention, but in all sincerity every actor brings his or her A-game. Emma Stone shows that she is so much more than a cute, fun personality. Edward Norton nearly steals every scene that he's in, and the big surprise is Zach Galifianikis who falls into his role with great ease and confidence. Even with so many great performances, this is Keaton's show. His role is more than just a small commentary on his own career, but a complete revelation of his true talent. 

The movie has a lot to say about actors, Hollywood, critics, public perception of celebrities, and the state of cinema as it is today. My only real complaint with Birdman is the lack of screen time given to the other great actors like Edward Norton in the film's final thirty minutes or so. I just loved seeing all the characters interact together throughout the first 3/4 of the film that I wanted it to continue till the credits rolled. Nonetheless, Birdman is undoubtedly one the year's best films. It's far from the typical entertaining blockbuster and may not be for the average movie-goer, but any cinephile simply must make the effort to see this accomplishment. I couldn't help but think about how proud everyone involved must be of their film. 

RATING: A