How did we end up here? A simple question that may not have a simple answer! Either way many of us ask ourselves that same question every day. As for Riggan (Michael Keaton) who at one time was a well-known movie actor playing the role of Birdman he has two voices that speak to him daily. One as Riggan and the other as Birdman but even more so at times he sees the character as well who speaks to him about his life, love and career. Older and no longer a movie star Riggan is putting every ounce of his wealth and happiness into a Broadway play. His daughter Sam (Emma Stone) is a constant reminder of why he needs this play to succeed. Success is doubtful though with Ralph (Jeremy Shamos) as one of the lead actors but when tragedy strikes Ralph is replaced by Mike (Edward Norton) a Broadway actor the critics love and the audience buys tickets for.
Riggan feels more confident as does the Manager Jake (Zach Galifianakis) that with Mike on stage this play about love will be a huge standing ovation. Leading ladies Lesley (Naomi Watts) and Laura (Andrea Riseborough) seem to think so too. Well that is if Riggan can find relevance and importance in his life and the critics that vow to destroy his play before it even opens is not helping his cause. Yet backstage life is even more confusing since this one is sleeping with that one and that one wants to sleep with the other one. Yet according to Birdman sixty is the new thirty and Riggan is still in his prime and should consider action over talk because that is what the people want. Is it? Fly Birdman fly!
‘When We Talk About Love’ opens on Broadway opening night becomes crazy, suicidal and normal but in the climax of the moment ends up with a bang, leaving Riggan no chances of smelling the flowers of success. Cue music and remember to look up not down the last time you look for Birdman.
I expected a dark comedy that was going to be a bit absurd and confusing but what I got was truly a well-directed and written comedy that is quite worth seeing. I must admit it truly has its weird moments but overall it shines in more ways than one. The characters are well developed and balanced and truly play well together and the story although a little off the wall is intriguing and genuine especially for the over thirty crowd. Keaton is truly superb as the main focus of the story but Norton has a way of taking control of many of his scenes, sometimes in a very stiff position, baring all. You will know what I mean when the film hits the theater. I have always been a fan of Stone and once again remain the same. Watts is perfect as is Riseborough as supporting characters and Galifianakis is fabulous as well. Overall I truly enjoyed this film even more so if you are a Broadway lover you’ll enjoy it even more. Written and enjoyed with three paws out of four by Jon Patch.
