Birdman
2014
Comedy, Drama
1h 59m
A washed-up actor who once played an iconic superhero must overcome his ego and family trouble as he mounts a Broadway play in a bid to reclaim his past glory.
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Birdman
2014
Comedy, Drama
1h 59m
Your probable score
Avg Percentile 63.9% from 8056 total ratings
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Rated 13 Feb 2015
2
17th
the satire is embarrassing; the complaints of a grumpy old man still butthurt over the shallow twitter rabble not taking to Serious Important Art Cinema like BABEL and 21 GRAMS. it's also broad, vague: its primary function is to make everyone in the industry feel in on a joke that's actually at the expense of nobody in particular. the perfectly oiled best picture-winning machine, hiding safe hollywood self-congratulation under a veil of edgy outsider art and attention-seeking filmmaking.
Rated 13 Feb 2015
Rated 09 Nov 2014
9
90th
The commitment to the long takes has less to do with virtuosity (although it is clear the virtuosity is there) and more to do with a kind of filmmaking philosophy, where cinema becomes life as we observe it. Life being: uncut, unedited, without interruption, always flowing; only interrupted when we close our eyes. I was hypnotized the entire time. Emmanuel Lubezki is one of cinema's greatest cameramen, and Birdman is another one of his remarkable creations.
Rated 09 Nov 2014
Rated 01 Dec 2014
4
70th
Poses the question: "What is artistic integrity, and how does it relate to actual integrity?" Turns out the answer is pretty fucking complicated, but watching Keaton and his wonderful supporting cast grapple with that issue implicitly and explicitly for two hours, all at an utterly breakneck pace, is enthralling, regardless of what conclusions one draws. Emmanuel Lubezki's whirlwind cinematography proves again why he's the best around: you will believe a camera can fly, if not a man.
Rated 01 Dec 2014
Rated 19 Jun 2015
50
49th
Despite the many rave reviews, this movie was a confusing and exhausting whirlwind of real life, the surreal and downright strangeness. The plot was overly tweaked and heavily weighed down by unrelenting overacting. I felt burned by the repeated psychotic jarring at every turn in the plot, video and music. Most of it felt like one long continuous take. This movie might be the very definition of insanity, and as such is perhaps worthy of notice.
Rated 19 Jun 2015
Rated 18 Jan 2015
10
6th
"Medium is the message", and if a director tries to show the rotten and sick relations behind the curtains of the entertainment world (which is what every Hollywood movie does today with a hypocrite mask of self criticism), he should try not to turn his movie into such a show of empty visuality. What does Innaritu aim when he uses those long moving shots? It only creates another buble instead of the Broadway's. If you adore long shots Sokurov already did it. :)
Rated 18 Jan 2015
Rated 17 Nov 2014
91
94th
This movie wasn't afraid to be weird while at the same time mirroring reality and I loved that. It's really a 21st century "Sunset Blvd." with a fallen actor trying to grasp for any semblance of relevance. The manner in which it's filmed with the extremely long takes and collectively great performances ensure that this movie will be long remembered. I wish more movies were this ambitious.
Rated 17 Nov 2014
Rated 24 Feb 2015
90
97th
Birdman is incredibly skillful in wowing the viewer with amazing camerawork, fantastic performances, killer music and striking images. The movie flounders a bit when it comes to the actual contents though. The themes are there (irrelevance, self-delusion, regret, our need for confirmation that we're worth something) but we're just given glimpses. I enjoyed how this movie about a play feels like a play in itself, but it's not quite the next Adaptation I've been yearning for. Still: wow!
Rated 24 Feb 2015
Rated 23 Feb 2015
97
95th
This movie is definitely one of the greatest movies on 2014. Birdman stands above many films this year with wonderful performances (Keaton is really good and Norton is a spot-on a-hole), one of my new favorite screenplays, and really good directing! One single shot for the whole thing, and it's pulled off quite well, making this all something rare in the movies. Good cinema and I liked the percussion they used as the score. A new style of direction that is different and very inspirational.
Rated 23 Feb 2015
Rated 11 Dec 2014
92
98th
Probably one the most ingenious movies I've seen in a long time, the film just oozes brilliance. From the way they do cuts and how they make use of surrealism, everything is on point and feels like has a purpose. The movie conveys its message beautifully and the acting from everyone is spot on. There's not a whole lot I can criticize about besides maybe some unexplored subplots, but otherwise the movie is fantastic.
Rated 11 Dec 2014
Rated 08 Jan 2015
20
13th
I gave it a good shot but I just don't have the patience for this sort of thing anymore
Rated 08 Jan 2015
Rated 21 Dec 2014
63
38th
Starts out great (seems like a fitting double bill with Confessions Among Actresses) but then it tries to get specific and kind of loses its footing. The problem is not so much that the people are unlikable, but that they're unsavory in a mostly boring way. Seeing the tension between real life/stage life is exciting, but everything about Keaton is eyerollingly banal. "Dad, you're a trending topic" like ok we get it, old people hate smartphones.
Rated 21 Dec 2014
Rated 07 Jan 2015
90
92nd
Keaton was waiting for this role while I wait for him now in Dark Knight Returns. Stunning camera work at play here, what a weird interesting movie. Love the Macbeth stuff going on, YOU SEE cause everyone expecting this performance to be a disaster and this review like almost all of them told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,signifying nothing.
Rated 07 Jan 2015
Rated 23 Jan 2015
60
47th
Impressive. But, what's at stake here? Besides a narcissistic actor wannabe artist's ego?
Rated 23 Jan 2015
Rated 07 Dec 2016
74
79th
There once was a bat, there once was a man, there once was a batman, there once was Michael Keaton as a batman, there once was Val Kilmer as a batman, there once was George Clooney as a batman, there once was Christian Bale as a batman, there is now Michael Keaton as a birdman. I wrote that sentence in one single take. Where's my Grammy?
Rated 07 Dec 2016
Rated 21 Mar 2016
85
93rd
Aye, this was a blast. Technically stunning, wonderfully acted, and a breath of fresh air. It definitely felt like I hadn't seen anything else like this before. The percussion-based score was brilliant. Tremendous.
Rated 21 Mar 2016
Rated 27 Feb 2015
56
25th
Rarely have I seen an "intelligent" movie so dull and unengaging. Isn't satire supposed to be aggressive? Or funny? The main plot is rote, the sub plots are truncated, and the characterizations are blunt and shallow. Working out the logistics of the long takes can be fun, but that's about the greatest joy this flick has in store. To me, the movie amounts to nothing more than a technical gimmick propped up by some fine stunt casting and a whole lot of hot air. I vastly preferred Synecdoche, NY.
Rated 27 Feb 2015
Rated 08 Jan 2015
8
82nd
Every performance was great and obviously Keaton is the highlight but the real stars of this film was the editing, the cinematography and directing. Whole movie appears to be shot in one take which is just a work of art. The scene in Times Square was a thing of beauty. Lame ending and a weak story drug this down for me but still an amazing cinematic experience.
Rated 08 Jan 2015
Rated 05 Nov 2014
95
99th
Birdman is a fascinating film. Technically it's impressive, but that only scratches the surface of why one should see it. It contains wonderful performances by the likes of Michael Keaton and Edward Norton -- along with Naomi Watts, Zach Galifianakis, Emma Stone, and others -- and it's also about things. It has a lot of criticism to levy on its targets, although at its heart it's about the desire to be seen, applauded, and loved by others.
Rated 05 Nov 2014
Rated 03 Feb 2015
75
77th
Brilliant in several respects, but somewhat exhausting. The less than satisfying and entirely too self-satisfied script and its rather weak ending are more than made up for by the spectacular performances from Iñárritu's superior ensemble cast (Norton being the standout among standouts) and cinematic wizard Lubezki's sublimely fluid camerawork.
Rated 03 Feb 2015
Rated 27 Dec 2014
75
59th
The performances and the dizzying cinematography lay in the forefront of an impressive stream of consciousness about the integrity of art and those who strive to be "an actor." Flying cameras, Ed Norton, long takes, drum solos, Michael Keaton; all are wonderful in this completely unique film that manages to be more theatrical rather than cinematic. I'm afraid to revisit it as I fear that it may be more vapid if looked at closely.
Rated 27 Dec 2014
Rated 20 Jan 2015
95
97th
Easily the movie of the year. 2014 has been one hell of a movie year, and to top it off with this is surreal. It was a unique experience in its direction, and it boasted brilliant performances from all the cast. And the score. Wow. Honestly this was a cinematic experience rather than a movie. I am so impressed.
Rated 20 Jan 2015
Rated 06 May 2015
87
93rd
Just fantastic. Keaton leads expertly, but this is superbly performed by all; Galifianakis and Norton in particular were excellent. Iñárritu's technical talent seeps out of every inch of this film. The tracking shots, lighting, sound, are all marvellous. The constant clash of low art verses high, new technologies and media and traditional media are great foils to the central psychological episode being undertaken by the lead character. A genuinely deserving Best Picture winner.
Rated 06 May 2015
Rated 11 Jan 2015
65
28th
On some levels Birdman is a fascinating study. The cinematography calls to mind Malick & Cuaron. It has inspired & creative editing. Keaton, Stone & Norton's performances are technical achievements. But the story lacks an emotional entry point & that left me wanting more. Unlike a flick like Locke, I had a hard time rooting for the lead to beat his conflicts. Also, combining magical realism with poor story logic (the critic and the play ending) is almost unforgivable. A marginal recommendation.
Rated 11 Jan 2015
Rated 06 Feb 2015
38
23rd
It's told in extremely long and elaborate single shots and thinks it's a satire of showbiz, but not being a formalist it didn't impress me much. The script is just a big busy mess of nothing. It brought about unpleasant flashbacks to Black Swan and Venus in Fur, but most of all it reminded me of a baby nursery mobile. Flashy, noisy and made of plastic.
Rated 06 Feb 2015
Rated 16 Dec 2014
96
98th
Takes the celebrity satire sub-genre and meditates deeply on the usefulness and expandability of the individual. The terrific writing and acting help with this, with just about each character getting a brilliant monologue, and Keaton really shines, guiding most of this film himself. This film is also a technical marvel, with time and space not as distorted as it usually is in cinema, giving it a fluid authenticity -- that and the music give this an overwhelming pre-show anxiety.
Rated 16 Dec 2014
Rated 12 Jan 2015
90
89th
Black Swan meets a Lindsay Lohan'esque breakdown meets MacBeth. Keaton was made for this part.
Rated 12 Jan 2015
Rated 01 Feb 2015
9
90th
(after repeat viewings) More of a technical accomplishment than a leap forward in storytelling. Don't get me wrong, the heady themes tackled over the course of the film paint a meaningful and coherent picture of an entertainment-obsessed society and ego-driven ambition, but the technical achievements trump its storytelling merits by far. Lubezki should be hired for taping childbirth videos from now on, so that they look less like cringe-inducing homemade pornos.
Rated 01 Feb 2015
Rated 05 Feb 2015
49
11th
Technically marvelous and well acted, it's certainly an artful movie and I'm sure there's a lot of people who will love it, I'm just not one of them. The script/dialog was kind of hit-or-miss for me, it kept bouncing back and forth between legitimately great and totally overblown. I absolutely hated the incessant and pretentious free-form-jazz drumming. Top it off with an ambiguous ending which is sheer laziness as far as I'm concerned. "Am I laying it on too thick?" Yes you are, Birdman.
Rated 05 Feb 2015
Rated 20 Nov 2014
97
91st
the acting is amazing, just truly, especially given this type of movie where they are struggling with their acting abilities in the plot itself. Its really cool to see them do a scene well and then turn around and do that same scene even better. you can feel the energy pulsing through each act. Its a brilliant and twisted piece of Meta that makes me happy just thinking about it. The rant that was obviously about Batman is hilarious.
Rated 20 Nov 2014
Rated 03 Nov 2014
68
48th
Asinine yet fiercely entertaining.
Rated 03 Nov 2014
Rated 29 Jan 2015
90
94th
Amazing performances, great camerawork and a fascinating weaving of themes and slightly off kilter narrative. Only complaint is that it could have been a little tighter and more cohesive, but even that is pretty minor and could be solved on rewatch.
Rated 29 Jan 2015
Rated 05 Apr 2015
81
94th
The value in this film is not from the satire, as its a backseat to the stunning display of acting, directing and cinematography. If you can't find beauty somewhere in this film, you are dead inside. Cinema critic elites will most likely hate it, for its obvious stabs at their worthlessness, but it stabs at everything else as well. Fair is fair.
Rated 05 Apr 2015
Rated 10 Nov 2014
85
90th
You can't change who you were, but who are you going to be? This movie was wonderful, and raised a lot of questions for me to ponder on, which is a great sign for a cinematic experience in my book. Not only is it completely mesmerizing cinematographically speaking, but it explores themes which demand attention in the modern age. A veritable masterpiece for Iñárritu.
Rated 10 Nov 2014
Rated 24 Feb 2015
90
92nd
One of the most perfectly shot films I've ever seen. This is the magic people talk about when they say the magic of movies. Great acting all around and a wonderful dark and humorous script. Deserving of all its accolades.
Rated 24 Feb 2015
Rated 15 Jan 2015
93
90th
Keaton and Norton definitely steal the show here, and it's one of the singular cases where the long takes serve to elevate the film rather than act as a contrivance. Birdman tapped into that weird vein of anxiety-inducing surreality that directors like Noe and Lynch are masters at; it exudes some sort of feeling that something is always a little off and something bad is just around the corner. This film flawlessly uses the camera to its fullest to tap into Riggan's psychosis, and I loved it.
Rated 15 Jan 2015
Rated 29 Jan 2015
90
98th
it's a rare and precious occasion, when something can make you feel like you're doing it for the first time, even if you did it hundreds of times before. birdman is such an occasion. it is simply put "impossible" in every regard and deserves every acclaim or award coming its way. if there's ever a classic to be achieved from these dire cinematic times, this is it.
Rated 29 Jan 2015
Rated 15 Jan 2015
78
78th
I realize I'm going to be the stuffy boring contrarian but I really would have liked more of a story arc here to cement the fantastic atmosphere and good concept. The movie was still interesting and Ed Norton was fantastic.
Rated 15 Jan 2015
Rated 20 Jun 2014
100
0th
Micheal Keaton doesn't have to be Batman or Birdman to be my hero. But it doesn't hurt. :)
Rated 20 Jun 2014
Rated 07 Jan 2015
85
80th
There's very little in Birdman that isn't brilliant. The way the editing and filming was done to make it look like one shot (and as if life is like live theatre) was amazing. Keaton was fantastic but everyone else did well too. Though I wouldn't listen to the music outside of the movie, in context it's great... Love the usage of drums. Great satire, funny, is really saying something... But it is also surreal and well, kinda silly (in a good way).
Rated 07 Jan 2015
Rated 03 Feb 2016
87
96th
Heinz, it's America's favorite ketchup. I know it's vague but if you get that reference you unlock an achievement!
Rated 03 Feb 2016
Rated 13 Apr 2015
65
71st
Many good things, but when Norton disappears, about two thirds of the way through, it becomes clear the filmmakers have nowhere to go except towards crowd-pleasing conventionality.
Rated 13 Apr 2015
Rated 05 Feb 2015
91
93rd
Birdman is hymn to movies and a requiem to what they became, and maybe itself. Birdman is humble enough to say, I could be wrong and self-confident enough to say, you are wrong. It wants everything but simple answers. Its aware of its own Post-modernism and still, can't do anything about it but embrace it. To say, this beautiful movie is about time self-acceptance or fucking Hollywod is just the surface. And with this Birdman becomes an instant classic: It will occupy me forever.
Rated 05 Feb 2015
Rated 27 Oct 2014
83
72nd
This film offers a strange combination of attractive and repulsive characteristics. Michael Keaton himself plays a dislikable everyman à la Philip Seymour Hoffman in Synecdoche, New York, only his life isn't quite as interesting. The character who illuminates the stage the most is his daughter, played by Emma Stone. I use the word "stage" on purpose, because this film could have easily been performed as a play. Thinking about that too much makes my head spin.
Rated 27 Oct 2014
Rated 17 Nov 2014
90
96th
Hilarious, great performances and a well executed visual style that had me trying to find faults all the way though but just couldn't find them.
Rated 17 Nov 2014
Rated 13 Jan 2015
86
61st
Pretty much, for better or worse, a very well made rant put to film.
Rated 13 Jan 2015
Rated 21 Jan 2015
85
92nd
Of all the good superhero movies to come out in 2014 this broadway-based, Robert Altman'esque, satirical Michael Keaton comeback has to be my favorite. Technically splendid and emotionally resonant, like a tiny hammer banging on your balls.
Rated 21 Jan 2015
Rated 06 Oct 2016
84
83rd
Finally, a film from Iñárritu that's not afraid to have a sense of fun! Edward's casting is genius and Keaton show he's still got it.
Rated 06 Oct 2016
Rated 16 Feb 2015
90
95th
Brilliant study of that strangest of creatures, The Actor.
Rated 16 Feb 2015
Rated 10 Apr 2015
70
86th
A virtuoso aural and visual creation, with the heavily diegetic soundtrack and Lubezki's masterful, soaring cinematography creating a tense, inescapable atmosphere. The entire cast provides powerful performances as well. As a measure of technical skill, or of ambition, this film is an outright masterpiece. It's more in the script that this falters; with its obsession about superheroes, social media, unfair critics, and the life of celebrities, it somewhat loses its grounding in ordinary life.
Rated 10 Apr 2015
Rated 07 Jan 2018
65
72nd
I'm not a fan of movies that focus on style over substance. Birdman is an okay story distinguished only by its overproduction, from the overused tracking shots to the annoying jazz/drum soundtrack. It's redeemed a little by the well-acted characters. Watch for Edward Norton and Emma Stone.
Rated 07 Jan 2018
Rated 22 Feb 2015
50
47th
After hearing all the praise I was left feeling distinctly underwhelmed by this one. Keaton and Norton are good, and the direction impressive - with some beautiful lighting - but The Player-meets-Noises-Off theme seems to be aimed much more at the Academy than us plebs at home. There's a line in the third act about the audience getting bored with all the dull conversations and philosophy, and wanting some action and effects, that just rings far too true here.
Rated 22 Feb 2015
Rated 01 Jun 2015
87
74th
"Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" has won 208 awards, including four Oscars, and was nominated for 181 others. It currently has a 7.9/10 on IMDB, a 93% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 'great' probable score indicator on Criticker. This happens once every 823 years. In Feng Shui, this is called money bags. So star this Criticker review and you will receive stars for your Criticker reviews in four days. The one who does not star will be without stars.
Rated 01 Jun 2015
Rated 10 Jan 2015
80
88th
It would suck it's own dick if it could, and it should have ended a scene earlier, but Birdman is impeccably made & acted. I was practically wanking in the cinema during the stuff about critics. ITS ALL SO TRUE
Rated 10 Jan 2015
Rated 22 Feb 2015
50
18th
The things that people praised about this film just didn't work for me. Nothing really wrong with it, but movies in this intentionally-pretentious-surrealistic-tar-black-comedy style have never appealed to me.
Rated 22 Feb 2015
Rated 09 Feb 2015
85
92nd
The most fun i'll have in cinema the next couple of years. Must have abundance of fun for years to come in retrospective viewings. Instant classic.
Rated 09 Feb 2015
Rated 29 Jan 2015
90
99th
Pretty much everything about birdman is incredibly good! Perfect acting by EVERYONE, fantastic camera work, great script, blablabla... Go watch it now!
Rated 29 Jan 2015
Rated 21 Jun 2015
84
90th
Camera work is claustrophobic at first but you adapt. The style is more analogous to a theater play; rolling forward, rushed transitions and seamless cuts through time. Keaton is astonishing here with a role that may have been more than just an acting job. The critic confrontation is powerful and the Birdman scenes are on the money. A movie that makes you think.
Rated 21 Jun 2015
Rated 10 Nov 2014
88
86th
An actor (Michael Keaton) best known for playing the titular superhero struggles to mount a Broadway show based on the works of Raymond Carver, but is beset by troubles, both of his own making and of others'. Energetically directed and immersively shot in swooping movements which appear to constitute a single fluid shot, it's by turns fascinating, funny, and sad, and Keaton (and Edward Norton, and Emma Stone) gives a beautifully wild performance. Marred by a few fleeting moments of stereotype.
Rated 10 Nov 2014
Rated 19 Nov 2014
100
99th
This movie was incredible. Those long uncut tracking shots automatically credits EVERYONE'S performance because perfection and pure dedication is a prerequisite for them to work. I love the behind the stage feel. I love the narrative of Hollywood and the brilliant take on those humanoid creatures we call 'actors'. I love how it shows genius accompanied by madness. I love the blurred lines of reality. I love that Iñárritu said, "Fuck you. I could care less what you think." to everyone's face.
Rated 19 Nov 2014
Rated 29 Jan 2015
95
99th
This was an experience. Everything about this film was flawless and might have the chance to be acknowledged as a masterpiece and all time classic. The directing was impeccable and the cinematoghraphy was the most innovative in a while, just brilliant. The whole cast was just great with an astonishing Micheal Keaton. Plus the whole movie works on so many levels. Simply remarkable. I could go on for hours, but go see for yourself.
Rated 29 Jan 2015
Rated 28 Jan 2015
80
67th
good cinematography and good acting with average story & script and annoying drum sessions...
Rated 28 Jan 2015
Rated 01 Feb 2015
8
79th
Birdman or (The Usual Wallowing in Pseudo Humanist and Cinematic Pretentiousness). Very entertaining. Next.
Rated 01 Feb 2015
Rated 13 Jan 2015
10
98th
Birdman is without doubt my favourite film of 2014 and It's quite simply an impeccable piece of filmmaking. Most pleasingly, Michael Keaton gives an absolute masterclass. And Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, Zach Galifianakis, Andrea Riseborough & Amy Ryan are all incredible too. Technically Alejandro G. Iñárritu's overall direction is masterful craft and the calibre of the writing, score, cinematography and editing is extraordinary. Birdman truly is an unbelievable cinematic experience
Rated 13 Jan 2015
Rated 14 Aug 2019
50
34th
Birdman really disappointed me, I wanted a story about a manbird who had to come to terms with his man/birdness. You can't fly now, you've got make Jessica her lunch for school. But how can I make a sandwich with wings? Cue hijinks. Jessica opens her lunch and finds feathers in her tuna sandwich. She smiles because not only is it amusing to see a manbird feather in your sandwich but she's happy that her dad is finally in her life. it works on many levels.
Rated 14 Aug 2019
Rated 07 Feb 2015
91
80th
In every scene, and by scene I mean anytime the camera cuts, something suddenly goes wrong, or something is slightly off and it's hilarious and stomach churning. There's a perfect amount of adjustment to every crucial moment that it works perfectly each time one of these moments occur. And I'm glad Michael Keaton is in another movie. Everyone else is great as well, this is the first time other than televised plays where the actors are really pushing themselves like stage actors on screen.
Rated 07 Feb 2015
Rated 10 Dec 2014
87
81st
a cinematic masterpiece, technically speaking, and a gripping, entertaining romp throughout. i am in awe at how this film was made - all in one shot and masterfully done! the performances were fresh and hilarious and the world was so convoluted and fun. as far as subject-matter and "themes" go, it was definitely pretentious at times, but that didn't bother me too much, and i enjoyed the film nonetheless.
Rated 10 Dec 2014
Rated 18 Jan 2015
75
93rd
I don't think this would have worked as well with anyone else besides Keaton...HELLO!....since being Batman in 1989, how many big film roles has Keaton had? Allegory much? Direction is tight and the camera tricks to make the film look like one take is inspiring. Keaton and Norton both shine and should take home some hardware for their performances.
Rated 18 Jan 2015
Rated 24 Jan 2015
100
99th
From the moment the cool as fuck drumming started in the opening credits I felt a refreshing glow, then soaring over the shoulders of the cast in one seemingly never ending take I was completely absorbed. Passage after passage of dialogue and corridor wound by, sometimes with a slow ebb and other times with the frenetic pacing of a madman, and even as characters and setting took shape I still didn't know where things were leading. Truly engrossing.
Rated 24 Jan 2015
Rated 28 Feb 2015
74
90th
Birdman is a great film. It boasts great performances, particularly from Keaton, Norton and Stone; funny, clever dialogue; and solid cinematography, that draws you into the backstage hallways and the drama therein. The film also indulges the modern superhero fetish, blurring the lines between what is real, and is therefore somewhat pretentious. A fact that is supported by an ending that is divisive and should prompt discussion.
Rated 28 Feb 2015
Rated 02 May 2015
86
88th
It's a trip. A beautiful fucking trip. The movie doesn't stop. I was overwhelmed at the end of it. Exhausted. Fantastic. It deserves all the praise it gets, and naysayers obviously have no taste. It's not for everyone, but everyone should see it.
Rated 02 May 2015
Rated 18 Jan 2015
90
91st
Inarritu is not making film, he is expanding it. And one of the best ensemble.
Rated 18 Jan 2015
Rated 27 Jan 2015
100
99th
Amazingly acted, edited and directed. The one take conceit adds to the distortion of reality. Heck of a film.
Rated 27 Jan 2015
Rated 09 Nov 2014
65
41st
For all the films now billing themselves as "experiences", from the very first shot this one is more absorbing than all of them. For a film that deals with interpersonal issues, the mise-en-scene has a somehow cosmic sheen; a reflection of the protagonist's ego, maybe? A lovely, if a little light and on-the-nose, piece of entertainment, that's part Cassavetes, part Gaspar Noe. (Postscript: definitely not on board with the Best Picture win.)
Rated 09 Nov 2014
Rated 02 Jan 2015
90
96th
Yeah, I can't do this in 500 characters. Just watch it, for all of it, especially the acting and editing and everything else.
Rated 02 Jan 2015
Rated 08 Jan 2015
85
85th
I really enjoy how this movie is shot, the tricks that make it appear to be one continuous shot. When that is done WELL, it really gives the movie a sense of its own character. Watching Norton and Keaton go shot-for-shot with each other is amazing -- as a matter of fact, every second either is on screen is tremendous. Keaton vs. Norton, fight scene of the year. The cast is wholly brilliant and I can't envision anything I would change about it. Performance-wise, almost embarrassingly perfect.
Rated 08 Jan 2015
Rated 20 Nov 2014
90
89th
Nice piece of post-modern cinema about cinema and the arts, along the lines of Holy Motors and Synechdoche, New York. In fact, I'm quite surprised that Holy Motors hasn't been mentioned more often in reviews, given that both films intensely focus on a single, veteran actor who is largely defined by his role. Loved Antonio Sanchez's drum solos.
Rated 20 Nov 2014
Rated 21 Nov 2014
94
90th
Everyone and everything shines in Birdman. This hit so many marks for me: huge Keaton performance, meta Batman, ambitious and precise filmmaking, captivating and hilarious dialogue -- I mean, the list goes on and on. Keaton is otherworldly here. He manages to overact perfectly in one scene, then become subtle and sensitive in the next. Birdman isn't just technically impressive, though; it manages to say something about art and celebrity and relevance and fulfilment.
Rated 21 Nov 2014
Rated 16 Nov 2014
100
97th
Inarritu's satirical take on broadway and the movie industry is impeccably crafted with showy but remarkable direction, cinematography and writing. The entire cast is on fire, from Keaton as the egotistical actor-turned-director trying to keep his sanity to the supporting cast that surrounds him - especially Emma Stone and Edward Norton who throw their biting lines like firecrackers. A sharp-witted look at the inner workings of the entertainment world and the cost of seeking perfection.
Rated 16 Nov 2014
Rated 28 Nov 2015
67
29th
This was pretty difficult to sit through. Pretentious as fuck. Yes I know it's supposed to be self-referential and aware the longer it went on the more it pissed me off.
Rated 28 Nov 2015
Rated 17 Jan 2015
83
92nd
A dive into a schizophrenic break, on the way covering the toxic relationship between validation (or lack thereof) and existential despair. The metacommentary is great, between Keaton's Batman and Norton's notoriety as a prima donna. Coupled with Innaritu's technical experimentation, the exploration of the aforementioned issues (as well as obsolescence & reinvention, old v new media, high v low art, and the casual wiping out of humanity) means Birdman deserves more than one viewing.
Rated 17 Jan 2015
Rated 26 Feb 2015
83
57th
Let's talk about the good stuff first. Visually stunning. Amazing cinematography, reminds me of Alfred Hitchcock's Rope due to many single shots. Very good mixing between supernatural elements and realistic elements in presentation.
Unfortunately, the main plot itself falls flat and clichetic. Subplots are very interesting but didn't really help to drive the main plot. The main character's decisions really raises a lot of question marks in me and the ending is unjustifiable and disappointing
Rated 26 Feb 2015
Rated 24 Oct 2014
90
93rd
It pretty much lives up the buzz. The acting and especially the dialogue are its strong suits; and the dark...ish dramedy/satire on the superficial entertainment industry works. The thrust or direction is sort of haphazard and aimless which I think was intentional through most of it. But with the ending approaching, it seems at first like it was trying for something profound, veers off of that aiming, apparently, for "cool", but finally settling on cute. The scene with Keaton
Rated 24 Oct 2014
Rated 25 Feb 2015
96
93rd
This is a special kind of movie that doesn't happen often. Amazing performances and some of the best directing in a film this decade easily make this one of the top films of 2014. Deserved every Oscar, and Keaton deserved one for his performance too.
Rated 25 Feb 2015
Rated 13 May 2015
9
89th
Timely in its satire, wise in its casting, and daring in its approach to visual storytelling, under Iñárritu's sharp direction, "Birdman" soars as arguably 2014's finest film.
Rated 13 May 2015
Rated 16 Nov 2014
75
81st
Fittingly, the movie I saw before this -- Maps to the Stars -- dealt with some similar material. However, while that film was petty and cowardly, this could almost be called courageous, especially given how deliberately the actors' careers mirror their characters'. It also tackles themes both eternal and distinctly current; the former being irrelevance and the latter coming from how the former has been altered by the modern cultural landscape. 500 characters aren't enough for this film.
Rated 16 Nov 2014
Rated 09 Jan 2015
86
94th
"Is this for real or are you shooting a film?"
Rated 09 Jan 2015
Rated 24 Jan 2015
95
91st
Oozes energy and life; just as much fun to look at as it is to think over. The whirling camera is an outstanding technical achievement, the acting is all outstanding and, most importantly, the balance between surrealist creativity and psychodrama character study lifts Birdman to stand strong as one hell of an original American film.
Rated 24 Jan 2015
Rated 04 Feb 2015
81
96th
First of all, every time I look at the poster of Birdman, it reminds me of Lenin. Second of all, 2014 was a great year for movies. Birdman caught me unprepared - and with so much energy within it - I sat through it with a wide grin that left my jaw aching. Camera work is simply awe-inspiring as is editing - the whole film seems to be shot in a single take, you really need to pay attention to catch the cuts. Story is very heady, not a popcorn movie at all. Need repeated viewing to take it all in.
Rated 04 Feb 2015
Rated 07 Jan 2015
85
67th
From a technical standpoint it's truly impeccable - that camerawork is absolutely the bee's knees, and man, that drum score? Phenomenally good. But it also delivers a fantastically compelling, original story, stacked with great characters and even greater actors portraying them. It's hilarious for much of its running time without ever betraying the tense, forever-on-edge dramatic undercurrent. It's meta without being self-conscious, weird without being ridiculous.
Rated 07 Jan 2015
Rated 21 Jan 2015
85
98th
Loved the use of the drums sound track and sharp camera movements to create anxiety in the viewer, it makes you relate with the main character's anguish. The acting by all the cast members was amazing, well worth seeing.
Rated 21 Jan 2015
Rated 11 Jan 2015
70
51st
Very well made and acted movie, but it's not everyone's cup of tea.
Rated 11 Jan 2015
Rated 23 Feb 2015
85
88th
Strange ending kinda upsets an otherwise breathtaking movie.
Rated 23 Feb 2015
Rated 21 Jan 2015
75
44th
An interesting movie for sure, which opens up the discussion on art, and what it means to be an artist, which is always good, but the grand gesture of the third act feels too pat. Compared to something like Whiplash, in which the catharsis is one of character as well as cinema, Birdman falls short.
Rated 21 Jan 2015
Rated 10 Nov 2014
75
46th
This is a competent movie weighed down by too many unexplored subplots and unfunny unneeded comedic elements. The acting is top notch, the cinematography is unique and engaging, and the score fits perfectly. The problem here lies with the screenplay's lack of discipline. In this film Iñárritu likes to throw subplots at the audience like he's a quarterback and you're his favorite receiver. In reflection I counted at least 10 different subplots. Most of which are only half developed/explored.
Rated 10 Nov 2014
Rated 27 Jul 2015
5
4th
Boring, depressing movie about a boring, depressing man. Given many awards by boring, depressing people who believe their boring, depressing lives are art.
Rated 27 Jul 2015
Rated 11 Jan 2015
75
54th
The flashiness of it obscures what might be a fairly empty film...that might somehow also be a deep analysis of ego and desire to create important art. Sometimes it seems too overtly cynical and sometimes the characters are a little too obvious and on the nose. The criticisms of mainstream art come across both like cheap shots and genuine disdain/worry for the plight of the creative. It seems like it's sinking and swimming at the same time. A second view might help shake things out.
Rated 11 Jan 2015
Rated 25 Jan 2015
90
94th
What is there to say? Very unique film. Michael Keaton is the best I've seen him. They have no idea what we're capable of.
Rated 25 Jan 2015
Rated 18 Nov 2014
94
95th
Inarritu borrows a page out of Fellini's "8 1/2" flying sequence, goes even more surreal, and tackles an actor's struggle with success instead of a director's. Riggan seems doomed, like Icarus, whether he flies low as a Hollywood superhero star or flies high as a Broadway virtuoso. The ending suggests that low-art and high-art have become one and the same in today's viral-obsessed public. Themes aside, the faux-tracking shot camera, drum score!, and incredible acting make this a thrill to watch.
Rated 18 Nov 2014
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