Review of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014) by Thequietgamer — 27 Jun 2015

Hilarious, compelling, thought-provoking, and more than a little bat crap crazy. "Birdman" is satire of the film industry, celebrity life, and all the insanity that goes with it. With stunning performances all around, excellent writing, big laughs, and stunning direction this is a must see.

The biggest area where it succeeds though is that it speaks to everyone. We all want to feel loved and important. Special even. That force inside of us that drive us to achieve that feeling is the driving force behind this film. It's also the force that drove all of this film's characters to edge and said "it's up to you from here. Make the jump or fall and die." It's an emotional complex and intelligent film.

The way it talks about movie goers attention spans and what succeeds at the box office is sure to step on some toes. Yes, big blockbuster action movies do get more attention than more thoughtful dramas like, but what's the big deal? We pay for entertainment so shouldn't we get that rather than being bored out of our minds while some filmmaker preaches at us for two hours? While some of it's messages seem a little pretentious the film is unbelievably aware of this and even calls itself out on it. Regardless of how you feel regarding writer and director Alejandro González Iñárritu's views you can't say the film won't get you thinking.

What about what he has to say in regards to reviews? The labels we put on people's work. It certainly points out how hurtful and meaningless the reviews of both professional and us wannabe reviewers can be to the people behind what is being reviewed. It is our right to tell how we feel about a piece of entertainment, but do we have to be so darn cruel about it? Especially to those with a different view than our own?

This fim brings up plenty of interesting topics that you will dwell on for quite a long time if you have any interest in movies outside of shear entertainment factor. However all of that intelligence Birdman shows ultimately results to nothing if the movie isn't enjoyable to watch. Luckily the movie succeeds. With captivating performances all around, particularly from Keaton and Norton, and absolutely hilarious moments this is one that will keep comedy fans rolling on the floor with laughter. You also really begin to care about these characters and their plots as the film progresses. Before it's over you are emotionally invested.

Did I mention the soundtrack? Jazz has never been better utilized as far as I'm concerned. The special effects are awesome. They add a sense of craziness and unpredictability to the film. You never know when Keaton's powers are going to show up and put a whole new spin on things. They are used to excellently capture the character's insanity.

Birdman succeeds in just about every category. You may be able to predict a certain plot element that takes place near the end (you know exactly how Keaton's character is going to end his play before the big reveal), but for the most part it's an unpredictable ride. One with hilarity and originality all around. Simply put, this is one you should highly consider seeing.

I give "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" a 9.3/10.