Best film of 2014

Rating: 10/10 (30 December 2014)

Birdman's plot synopsis, an ageing film star who once was successful in a comic book movie franchise launches a Broadway show in a desperate bid to reclaim his glory and save himself, makes it sound insignificant and dull. It's anything but. It satirizes, critiques and comments on so many things; family, the media, blockbusters, film criticism, egos, fame, celebrity culture and showbiz in general. It's filmed to look like one continuous take and has an amazing ensemble cast. In general, Birdman is the greatest film of the year (Sorry Boyhood) and a masterpiece so captivating I was lying stunned and open mouthed in my seat for the whole thing. There are very few issues, aside from the fact some may find it a bit weird, and this amazing superhero movie which isn't a superhero movie is a devastating, deliriously entertaining knockout blow which has more strength than all the heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe combined. Instead of cartoony villains, boring love stories, explosions and general idiocy this is a reminder of how great films can be, and a reminder of why all these actors are successful.
Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Emma Stone and even Zach Galifianakis are all exceptional in their roles, and Michael Keaton makes a remarkable comeback. It's amazingly well directed, and the single shot cinematography works remarkably well. The script is not only deep and clever, it's also darkly comic and bursting with raw energy. This is a darkly funny movie. It's a emotionally powerful movie. It's a thrilling and relentlessly fascinating movie. It's a hypnotic and enigmatic movie. It really has it all. This is probably too different to win best picture, but it should certainly be nominated for it. In general, this is a remarkable achievement for everyone involved and a nice break from the formulaic Marvel movies that seem to come out at least twice every year. It will speak to and entertain many people, and there's so much depth and ingenuity in this movie that I cannot wait to see it again on DVD. A must see for everyone. To be honest, a review and description doesn't really do this highly unusual and bold film justice. Just see it.
10/10