Where do old comic book superheroes go to die ?

Rating: Null/10 (10 June 2015)

BIRDMAN Is a unique movie. And as a result it stands out from the other movies it was nominated with. Birdman simply seems to shine brighter when compared to other movies of its year. It's closest competition wold be the superb The Imitation Game. Birdman is a study in madness loss regret and failure. While struggling to redeem oneself by risking it all.
Riggen Thomson is a washed up actor who is only known for playing the comic book superhero Birdman. Thomson played birdman in 3 highly successful classic movies and then lost himself to the game of fame. He quiet birdman after the third movie came out and slowly faded from public view. As he says during the Movie "I'm a answer to a trivial pursuit question "
He struggles to make a comeback this time on stage on Broadway tackling Raymond carver's classic story what we talk about,when we talk about love. At first glance it seems like chaos. Thomson is broke one of his actors can't act and the publicity is not there. The rehearsals are not working and Thomson is starting to hear Birdman speak to him.
When one of his actors is hurt. Thomson manages to replace him with a Broadway actor who is the darling of the media. the man is arrogant. A Trouble maker who finds disdain with every thing. Mike Shiner pushes Thomson to his breaking point as opening day comes close.
The one constant in Thomson's chaotic life is the fact that f he said yes to birdman 4 he could write his own check. Thomson refuses to go back to a movie hero he gave up 24 years ago.
Thomson wants to be seen as a actor/artist. but as the countdown comes down to the wire Thomson slowly starts to crack .
Michael Keaton gives easily the single most greatest performance of his career. Emma Stone shows in this movie why she should be taken seriously now as a actress and not just given fluff roles. Stone is capable of giving great performances and this one is easily her best. Edward Norton gives a strong turn to a most unlikable person who actually ends up making you like him despite his ability to offend and insult those around him.
Now that I have seen the most talked about films of last year and the ones nominated for best picture. I can honestly say birdman sparkles where other films glow. It has a certain feeling about it one that makes you want to watch it again while reaching for your copy of BATMAN 89. This film is Keaton's shining moment. I hope he has many more now that he's showed us what it is he can do. And I hope there is a Oscar waiting for him in the future.