Review of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014) by Heath T — 28 Aug 2015

There is a lot to like about this film. Many of the performances are excellent, among them Michael Keaton and Emma Stone. The historic and worn St. James is a character unto itself. The camera work is perfectly-suited to the gritty story, and is often overbearing, like the actors and dialog.

Unfortunately, the script often fails. The plot and dialog struck me as absurd - as if the actors are always on stage. But perhaps that is the point? Is this a slap at the ego of the typical actor? I don't know, but I do know I found myself thinking it was a bit much at times.

In particular the character and acting of Edward Norton. There are sequences in the story that are absurd, in direct contrast to the gritty realism of the rest of the film. The bottom line is, I am really not sure whether or not I liked this film.

It is worth watching, but may leave you conflicted.