birdman
2015 review number 12:
Birdman: (Comedy/Drama): 84 out of 100: I have heard some negative reports about this people from the general viewing public. Some people have claimed that it is weird and pretentious. It certainly is quirky and unconventional but if you open your mind, you shall be rewarded with an intense and occasionally humorous film.
Michael Keaton stars as washed-up actor, Riggan Thomas, who played an iconic superhero more than 20 years ago. Sounds like real-life doesn't it? He creates and stars in a Broadway play to try to revive his career. The days leading up to the premiere show the rehearsals, previews and behind-the-scenes of the play. You see his dysfunctional family in Sam (Emma Stone) and separated wife Sylvia (Amy Ryan) along with the play's actors in Lesley (Naomi Watts) and Mike (Edward Norton) plus his personal assistant Jake (Zach Galifianakis). Everything seems to lead to arguments and disaster.
The script is bursting with snap, crackle and wit. It allows for superb interaction between the characters. With such an excellent script, the actors prove to be sharp and demonstrate some of the finest acting in their respective careers. Special mention must be made of Keaton's performance which lays bare his emotions. Norton is also brilliant as the actor with an ego trip. The acting is intense and powerful and it's no surprise to see a few of the cast members rewarded with Oscar nominations.
One of the fascinating elements of "Birdman" is the direction. It seems that it has been filmed in one continuous take. The camera glides elegantly from scene to scene. It's reminiscent of some of Alfred Hitchcock's direction in 1948's "Rope". No problems with quick cuts (my bugbear) in this movie!
The music score is unusual though effective. It is a drum score which establishes and maintains the mood of the piece. The intensity of the story, script and acting is matched by its music. There are also some classical pieces to heighten the tension of the plot. It's not all serious going though with some amusing scenes and dialogue to showcase the acting and dialogue.
It's easy to see why a lot of cinemagoers are turned off by "Birdman". The fantasy aspects lend themselves to quirkiness which would not be found in a conventional drama/comedy. However, if you wish to see something creative and different then you shouldn't go past this fascinating movie.
Starring Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Naomi Watts, Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis and Amy Ryan
(119 minutes)
Parental advice: Coarse language, sexual references, violence, nudity and adult themes
Additional scene during or after credits: No
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jAfBd3g6bA (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Tuesday 27th January, 2015)
For my latest reviews, go to this link: http://mlaimlai2.wix.com/magical-movie-review
