Birdman (Or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

Chief Chick Comments

Michael Keaton, in a comeback of his own, plays Riggan Thomson a former superhero Birdman (We all remember Keaton played Batman in the first two movies 20 years ago). Riggan has never regained his glory after refusing to do Birdman 4 and has chosen an obscure play to take to Broadway. Noami Watts plays an actress who finally lands a Broadway role as his wife. Her live in boyfriend, played by Edward Norton, is brought in the week of the opening to play the man with whom she is unfaithful in the play. Meanwhile, Emma Stone plays, Sam, Riggan's daughter fresh out of rehab. The play is not working well and we see the two pre opening performances which are near disaster. Meanwhile, the New York Times critic played by Leslie Duncan threatens a bad review as Riggan has mortgaged everything on this play both financially and personally. As if that were not enough, Riggan seems to have superpowers…or does he? Very strange movie with lots of buzz. I thought it went on a bit too long. They make Michael Keaton, a cute guy, look pretty worn out which is appropriate for the role. Yet despite some drawbacks, the performances are compelling in many ways. See it, but certainly not my favorite of the year.

Flock Comments