I remember reading Raymond Carver’s
“Cathedral” and moved by his simple yet powerful writing. In “Birdman”, Riggan
Thomson (Michael Keaton)
directs and acts in a Raymond Carver play "What We Talk
About When We Talk About Love" to revive his long-forgotten acting
career. Who is Riggan? He, like Keaton in real life, was once famous for his
super-hero movies and this play is his only chance for revival. His co-star, Mike
(Edward Norton) is a method
actor but erratic during their previews. What stands between Riggan and a
successful opening on Broadway? Is it Riggan’s voices-in-the-head, a spiteful
critic or Mike?
Movies like “Birdman” reinforce my love for the silver
screen. As the camera pans the claustrophobic labyrinths of the back-stage, I
was excited to see what Riggan was upto next. He oscillates between a
surrealistic world and the world of Broadway theater in New York City. Michael
Keaton plays the role of his lifetime. He slips into the character of Riggan as
if he is playing himself and the parts where he has to act in the play, he
surpasses any Broadway actor I have watched. There is a scene where his alter
ego persuades him to return to playing a super-hero and his response reminded
me of Betty Davis refusing to return back to Broadway in “All About Eve”. He
has my vote for the best actor Oscar this year.
What is Birdman really about? There are so many inferences
you can draw. It is not just the personal quest of a great actor; it is also
contempt for blockbuster movies versus theater. And maybe it is not about
anything but an ode to the art of filmmaking.
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