I left the theatre slightly confused. I had just seen a terrific ensemble deliver a number of Oscar worthy performances, a highly innovative story line with one surprise after another, and everyone around me was grumbling about how terrible the show was. It was the profanity, so prevalent it was like a nasty virus slowly killing itsâ host, and by the end, despite the brilliance, you were glad it was over. Nonetheless, Hollywood doesnât seem to care, and it most likely will earn some nominations, which I reluctantly have to agree would be deserved.
Michael Keaton leads the way playing faded movie star Riggan Thompson. Renowned twenty five years ago as the comic book superhero Birdman, he is attempting to revive his career on Broadway. He takes the starring role in his own production of âWhat We Talk About When We Talk About Love,â and the resulting story is a lesson in theatrics both on stage and off. Ed Norton plays Mike Shriner, a last minute addition to the cast, and the fireworks between the two men are at times riveting. Norton proves again he is one of Hollywoodâs best and most versatile actors.
Regardless, Michael Keaton holds his own. Driven by his alter-ego Birdman, he is desperate for a successful opening and the rehearsals leading up to the big day are fascinating pieces of work. This quickly becomes two stories, the play itself becoming one, and the backstage histrionics the other. They begin to feed off one another, and we are soon faced with a Greek-like tragedy on one hand and a Shakespearian one on the other. Eventually you canât separate them.
Birdman
Entertainment Rating: ★★★
Rating: R, consistent and habitual profanity, otherwise four stars, sexual situations no frontal nudity, mild drug use.
Possible Oscar Nominations: Best Movie, Best Actor, Michael Keaton; Best Supporting Actor, Ed Norton; Best Supporting Actress, Emma Stone
Emma Stone plays Keatonâs daughter and, once again, surprised me with her talent. Lindsay Duncan plays Tabitha Dickinson, a New York Times theatre critic, and while the role is limited, she will not easily be forgotten. And thereâs another solid performance from Naomi Watts, but what else would you expect from her?
Then there is the Birdman himself, alter ego or not, he plays a prominent role. Lurking in the background throughout the story, he emerges from time to time, providing some unexpected and surprising moments, lending an air of mystery and fantasy to an otherwise well-grounded script.
If you can find a version of this without the profane language, you will most likely be glad you went. If not, I can give no guarantees.
Questions or comments tsansom2002@gmail.com.
