A Meta-fictional Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (5 January 2015)

If indeed you are unaware of the term "Metafiction", let me first define this for you. Metafiction self-consciously draws attention to the fact that what you are reading/ watching is in fact just that of an artifact. Questions are then created surrounding the relationship between fiction and reality, using self-reflection and more importantly, irony.
Birdman, in my opinion, is a great example of metafiction. From the outset, the name 'Birdman' strikes a unquestionable similarity to that of 'Batman'. Of course, most film buffs are aware that the lead role, Michael Keaton, played Batman in two films. Thus, whilst the film focuses heavily on a washed up old actor, famous only for playing a superhero- the film is adhering to the conventions of metafiction. The film, more than anything, is a challenge to our current generation. One that is self-obsessed and only finds joy in 'going viral' and building a collection of virtual followers on Social Networking sites. Yet, the people that don't quite get this film and heavily critique it are those that are being challenged by the film. Riggan himself as Birdman states that "People, they love blood. They love action. Not this talky, depressing, philosophical bullshit." and yet the film resonates closer to the latter. The film is extremely deep and symbolic and the three young boys that walked out of the cinema whilst I watched it are those that the director is challenging.
The film is a masterpiece. Everything about it is genius. The constant repetitive drum beats symbolises the monotonous nature of this current generation, the self-obsessed. Yet, Keaton plays his role perfectly. He is in fact the most self-obsessed to the point where his past follows him around and creates a voice in his head and a sense of superhuman powers, that are clearly not real or there to "show off" the camera techniques as some critics state, and yet he only finds peace in death.
Furthermore, the scene in Times Square was the one that stood out for me the most. The fact that, at only this point Riggan feels famous, (being in his underwear and filmed by hundreds) shows the simple-mindedness of this current era. Humiliation is the only way people are credited these days and as Mike Shiner states, "Popularity is the slutty little cousin of prestige." It is only when the public thinks Riggan has died that he gets the recognition he strives for, followed by Zach Galifianakis' remark that he finally got what he wanted.
Of course, bad criticism is always present for even the greatest of films but the striking irony of Keaton's desperate need for a good review is what this film is all about. Riggan wants his acting spark to be relighted and to be recognised again as a great actor. The film will be greeted by the unintelligent and mocked for not having enough blood or action, but the film is extremely deep.
The acting throughout the film is remarkable on all accounts. The cinematography is both pleasing to the eye and unique and symbolises that indeed, life goes on, and perhaps some of the actors of our youth are left behind. I can't imagine any actor playing the role of Birdman better than Keaton and if this film doesn't win at least three Oscars, then I have indeed lost hope in humanity. A true cinematic masterpiece that will one day become a classic.