Keaton/Norton on top form

Rating: 8/10 (5 March 2015)

Birdman delivers some truly great performances notably from Keaton and the very skilled Norton. The depth of both their characters and they way they interact on and off stage defines the quality of Birdman as a film.,....as a story.
The authenticity of Keaton's portrayal as a previously successful actor trying to rekindle the glory is tangible. His emotion real, his pain confusion and soul searching thought provoking and credible. The Oscar nomination was well deserved and if he had won, it would have been no surprise (it went to Eddie Redmayne for Theory of Everything)
Norton also deserved the Oscar nomination for best supporting actor. His performance was rock solid as the super confident stage actor brought in by Keaton's character at the last minute. In fact, his role is at times in danger of stealing the film...a top performance and also worthy of the Oscar nomination.
Finally, Emma Stone who plays Keaton's grumpy daughter must also get a mention. Superbly complex as the daughter who did not see enough of her dad when she was young. Unlike similar characters in other films, she balances the hard edge with vulnerability and confidence and similar to Keaton and Norton, provides an exceptional performance.....also also deserved the Oscar nomination.
The film resonates with life in so many ways. The challenges we all face dealing with different people trying to work towards the same goals....somehow, struggling as perspective and agenda gets in the way. This plays out beautifully in Birdman and leaves you with a whole range of emotions from happiness to sadness, to strength and reflection.
I loved it.