Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Review

Birdman Soars 

As the film industry becomes more and more dominated by sequels, reboots, and formulaic biopics, it is always refreshing to see a truly original movie released in theaters. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) comes as a reminder that cinema can do more than to entertain; it can be a brilliant commentary on various aspects of American culture.

Originally released last October, Birdman tells the story of washed up Hollywood actor Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton). Best known for playing the superhero Birdman, he attempts to revive his career by writing, directing, and starring in a Broadway production of Raymond Carver's “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love”. As it gets closer to opening night, things begin to fall apart when method actor Mike Shiner (Edward Norton) is brought in as a last minute addition to the play.

Birdman is one of the most intricately made and thought provoking films in recent memory. Director and co-writer Alejandro González Iñárritu injects the movie with incredible energy and style. Birdman is not only an entertaining thrill ride; it's self aware satire on cinema and theater, artist and critic, actors and celebrities, and blockbusters and independent productions. All of its themes are presented in such an absurd fashion and nothing goes without criticism.

It is also an undeniably strange film. The movie opens with Thomson levitating three feet off of the ground, deep in mediation. Things only get weirder as a gruff, intimidating voice begins to mock him - the disembodied voice of Birdman. This is only the first scene; expect a bizarre display of superpowers and several fourth wall breaks.

Much of Birdman's style is due to the incredible camera work of cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki (who won an Academy Award last year for his work on Gravity). The movie is filmed and edited to appear as one continuous shot. The result is a breathtaking achievement that enhances the film’s theatrical feeling as much as it impresses the audience. Birdman also features an engrossing score consisting of a single drumline and occasional excerpts of classical music. Composed by Antonio Sanchez, the score is different from anything you've ever heard but it somehow compliments the movie's tone beautifully.

The film's cast is equally, if not even more, impressive. Michael Keaton gives one of the best performances of the year as a character whose career is not that different from his own. Thomson is a tragic figure - an actor trying to become relevant again in a world that has no more need for him. Edward Norton is also fantastic as a method actor who can only feel alive on stage, while Emma Stone and Zach Galifianakis help round out the excellent ensemble.

Birdman likely asks the audience more questions than any other movie released in 2014. However, instead of taking the easy route and answering them, the film lets viewers decide what to make of the story and the many, many themes presented. In an age where movies are afraid to try new things, Birdman shows that the reward can be worth the risk.