Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Poster

A fading actor best known for his portrayal of a popular superhero attempts to mount a comeback by appearing in a Broadway play. As opening night approaches, his attempts to become more altruistic, rebuild his career, and reconnect with friends and family prove more difficult than expected.

Intro

"Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" is a 2014 comedy-drama movie directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu. The movie stars Michael Keaton as Riggan Thomson, a washed-up Hollywood star famous for depicting the iconic superhero Birdman as he tries to revive his profession by composing, directing, and starring in a Broadway play. Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis, Naomi Watts, and Edward Norton also star in essential roles.

Plot Summary
The movie happens practically completely in the St. James Theatre in New York, where Riggan tries to stage the play "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love", based upon the narrative by Raymond Carver. Riggan's undertaking is laden with unending crises, from a terrible lead actor who requires to be changed by Broadway superstar Mike Shiner (Edward Norton), personal concerns, to on-stage accidents that threaten to derail the production. In addition to the tension of the play, Riggan is pestered by an inner guide, the persona of Birdman, who continuously advises him of his past fame and critiques his every decision.

Riggan's Struggles
As the opening night of the play is drawing near, Riggand battles with his own ego and tries to heal the relationships he's neglected due to his career, particularly with his recovering addict daughter Sam (Emma Stone). He also tries to keep an affair with his co-star, Laura (Andrea Riseborough). Riggan is likewise continuously haunted by his Birdman persona, requiring him into the impression of possessing Birdman's superpowers, representing his mental distress and struggle for importance.

Philosophical Themes
"Birdman" explores styles of ego, importance, and authenticity on the planet of art. Thomson's journey reviews the continuous hustle for gratitude as an artist, while his Birdman personality uses a critique on the commercialization of art. The film utilizes wonderful realism components to bring out Riggan's mental battle within these themes and critiques the Hollywood franchise system.

Climax
After an overall disaster throughout the preview, Riggan, haunted by his change ego and drunk, wanders the streets of New York and end up sleeping on the street. On opening night, in a state of desperation, Riggan uses a genuine weapon and shoots himself to deliver an emotionally stirring ending to the play. The play gets a standing ovation from the audience and rave evaluations from critics.

Ending
The film ends with Riggan in the medical facility, bandaged and finally devoid of his Birdman personality. He shares a real minute with his daughter Sam. As he smiles at her, he takes a leap from the healthcare facility window, recommending that he feels free. Instead of looking down, Sam looks upwards and smiles, leaving the movie open-ended.

Reception
The movie received vital recognition, with praise for its instructions, performances (particularly Keaton and Norton), and its innovative storytelling. "Birdman" won 4 Academy Awards, consisting of Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. It is renowned for its single-shot look. This movie is a meta-referential work, mixing truth and perception, checking out the mind of a guy struggling with his personal and expert failings.

Top Cast