...A thing is a thing, not what is said about that thing.

Rating: 8/10 (29 March 2019)

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) is in the strictest sense of the word a surreal and metaphorical movie. Although the movie is captivating, compelling and interesting; it also certainly pops up questions in the minds of the audience. Throughout the movie we see the brilliant performance of Michael Keaton as Riggan Thomson, while he struggles with the voice of a character that he played in the 90s, in his head. The voice of Birdman represents his indecisive personality, search for character, dilemma between realities and desire for acceptance.
Additionally, in various scenes we see Riggan using his powers such as flying, telekinesis etc., which also puts his delusional mind forward and shows the audience a side of Riggan when he lets Birdman overcome his desires. Although there are many controversies that points out that his powers might actually be real; the scene where he flies across New York, lands in front of his theatre and walks inside, we see that he is chased by an angry cabbie who demands money for driving him, indicating that the entire scene was a delusion. Meaning that the voice inside him, Birdman, demonstrates the importance of financial success, whereas Riggan himself believes that acceptance of people and proving himself critically is important.
Moving on to the last scene, no one can say whether he died, or he is still alive and knowing this wouldn't chance the main message of the movie. From the very beginning of the movie Riggan wanted to be loved and accepted; therefore, the people of New York lighting candles for him, praying in the streets, the top critic praising his work and most importantly his daughter finally being close to him shows that his life goal was fulfilled. This might be real, fake, dream, or whatever else...but still doesn't change the fact that he is happy, whether he or us can tell if it is the reality or not.
...A thing is a thing, not what is said about that thing.