Birdman

So, Whiplash – a brilliant film about a drummer. Birdman – a brilliant film with a drumming soundtrack. Though the similarities end there in terms of pace and style, as Birdman is the latest from Alejandro González Iñárritu, a director not known for yelling “cut” until all the reel in the film has been used up. Personally, I’ve found Iñárritu’s previous Hollywood efforts cold to the touch and more often than not a little dull (they’re a world away from his blistering Amores perros calling card). Things are a bit different here though thanks to a witty script, solid acting and some wizardry with the camera. Michael Keaton stars as Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor famous for playing a superhero (the Birdman of the title) in his prime, but now trying to win the respect of the establishment by starring in and directing a Broadway production of a Raymond Carver story. Iñárritu’s camera follows Riggan as he smooches around the backstage of the theatre in which he is attempting to put on his show. It’s not an easy ride as he finds himself hampered at almost every turn, from a bonkers co-star in the shape of Edward Norton to the distractions of the the main ladies in his life (ex-wife, daughter, girlfriend). As a storyline that would pretty much still play fine on itself, but Iñárritu’s also throws in the curve ball that Riggan appears to also have inherited a number of superpowers (levitation and telekinesis amongst them) which he utilises every now and then. Whether these acts are real or imagined, Iñárritu leaves to the viewers interpretation. I’m not sure the script really needed such a twist though as the film would work fine without them, though you could argue it helps cement Thomson’s ever fraying mind set. Talking of tricks, the film is notable for (with a few exceptions) being portrayed as being shot in one continuous take (Hitchcock and De Palma fans rejoice). Though it’s a trick, it’s an absorbing and highly impressive one. If you read on-line about the colossal preparation undertaken to produce such an effect, it’s heady stuff indeed. I guess the extras on the Blu-Ray will be something to behold. However, though the film should rightly be lauded for it’s technical prowess, does this distract us from the films limitations? As a satirical swipe at actors it doesn’t really work and its hard to care for any of the characters who are virtually all fairly despicable in their various different ways. Plus, the special effects for the main “Birdman” scene are a bit ropey and some performances barely register (you’ll hardly recall either Andrea Riseborough or Amy Ryan being in this by the time you’ve passed through the cinema exit door). Who does register though is Keaton. It’s actually quite rare for him to appear in a mainstream film these days, but clearly the ex-Batman couldn’t resist the (somewhat painful I guess) irony of the role in question. He’s great here though, displaying a gamut of emotions (watch for the superb moment where he deceives Norton into thinking he was abused as a child) as Riggan tries ever desperately to get his play down pat and finally earn the critical (not commercial) respect of his audience and peers. Arguably Norton is even better. Norton seems to be one of those actors who gets rave reviews for one-note performances, but he’s off the scale here as Mike Shiner, a credible stage actor, who has some serious insecurity issues despite his outward confidence (Hello, all actors!). Sadly he pretty much disappears around the halfway point and the film doesn’t quite ever regain it’s thrust. Though also look out for Zach Galifianakis (in one of his few “straight” performances) giving a small role some understated kudos. Ah – should also mention that drumming. Antonio Sanchez is the man with the sticks and his sharp playing is nicely matched up pacing wise by Iñárritu to whatever’s happening on the screen. Overall, this is a triumph for meticulous planning, but will it elicit repeat viewings though? From the technical side of things I’d say definitely. As a whole package though, I’m not so sure. Rating: 8/10.