A mesmerizing, but bizarre film backed up by outstanding performances by Keaton and Norton

Rating: 10/10 (3 November 2014)

The first thing to note, for those who do not know is that the film looks as if it was done in 1 take. Big "revelation" aside: I came into this movie knowing just about nothing outside of what is listed above, the odd preview, and the fact that I knew I would enjoy the score. I also knew I enjoy the actors in previous films and I knew I previously didn't like the director in Babel. I came out thinking this is my favorite film of the year so far.
Keaton plays Riggan, an actor who is most famous for writing, well, Birdman. He is shown to be rather psychotic, having an altered personality, shown through almost dream-like sequences with him arguing with his creation known as Birdman which results in among other things broken glass. Through him dealing with these sequences, he is trying to make a play while dealing with his self-conscious, the other actors (especially Shiner, aka Norton,) his mentor, his relationship with his daughter, and the "insatiable" movie critic (had to poke fun there, sorry.) Norton is outstanding as well, portraying his relationships as well as his view of his own life compared to what he can act as. He steals the show in the majority of scenes, especially in the roof-top scenes and the play scenes at the table.
The other actors/actresses serve their parts outstandingly as well. The critic is as pessimistic as she should be and his daughter shows the angst and uncontrollable emotions of someone her age. The new actress shows her doubt but how she enjoys what she wants to mean to do.
The film is backed up with an outstanding realized drum-solo score that keeps up with the brisk-unrelenting pace. You feel as tired as the actors but also in awe. Jokes are occasionally said but they work just to calm down the emotions of you and the characters. It builds and builds.
Nominations for sound editing and cinematography are potentially a shoe-in for this movie. Everything just works together, thanks to the powerful direction as well.
9.6/10