This ‘Birdman’ Has Wings

A. Lawrence Dreyfuss

One of the most buzzed about movies opening in theaters this fall is “Birdman,” directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu. He has directed such acclaimed films as “Amores Perros,” “Babel,” and “21 Grams.” It has been four years since his last film was released and the excitement surrounding it is high. The anticipation began when “Birdman” was selected to be the opening night film at the 71st Venice International Film Festival in contention for the coveted Golden Lion.

In August, Variety released a review which unabashedly stated that “Birdman” is  “a triumph on every creative level, from casting to execution that will electrify the industry, captivate Arthouse and Megaplex crowds alike, send awards pundits into orbit and give fresh wings to [Michael] Keaton’s career.”  

The very same day The Telegraph released a review proclaiming “This is a phenomenal start to this year’s Mostra: grand, spectacular, star-powered cinema that makes us ask anew what cinema is for.” Critics are humming.  The film has already won multiple awards at Venice and recently screened at the New York Film Festival.

“Birdman” is the story of an actor, played by Michael Keaton, and his mission to mount a Broadway play as he deals with the struggles of his own personal life. It is based on a short story entitled “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver, the same author who wrote the piece that inspired Everything Must Go (2011) with Will Ferrell. Though, the movie’s draw is not so much the narrative as it is the style.  The entire movie spills out in one seemingly continuous take (the cinematographer has explained in interviews that is an illusion, rather it is various long takes seamlessly stitched together). The use of the uncut camera forces the actors to deliver in ways that we often forget is required of them in film. Keaton is at the height of his career and he is matched by an equally impressive performance by Edward Norton. As the film relies so heavily on the actors, there is no shortage of talent. Emma Stone, Zach Galifinakis, Naomi Watts, are just a few of the people who are in top form here.

“Birdman,” is looking to be the first big OSCAR contender of the season. It’s unique long filming style is reminiscent of last year’s “Gravity“ but the high energy camera movements coupled with the strange cast of characters should give it a flavor of its very own. In fact, many of the actors were required to perform up to fifteen pages of dialog at a time, hitting specific marks throughout to stay in focus and match the movement of the camera. Whether or not this proves to be a film that everyone enjoys or one for a niche audience, the feat of it is one that can be appreciated regardless.

“Birdman“ will be released in select theaters starting October 17.