Having worked extensively in both theatre and cinema (bars), it is
natural that I am thinking seriously about Birdman, so much so that I trust myself to deliver a review to you, the people. Here it is.
Very good.
While the film moved flawlessly from scene to scene in a continuous shot, the pace and intrigue surrounding the plot kept up. Initially, I was sceptical about how much I would enjoy a film about a theatre director, (having met so many which can only be described as total wankers) but Michael Keaton perfectly portrays these flaws whilst delivering the artistic insecurities and vulnerabilities which occasionally surface. What results is a exceptionally funny, thoughtful and captivating piece of cinema which doesn’t disappoint cinematographically. What a wanky couple of sentences. However, you will think again and again about it, so much so that you publish a review weeks later on your online magazine that no one reads.
While the film despatches the truth on theatre and film, I did think it went slightly astray on the topic of mental health. It finished off my letter to theatre – you’re good when you’re good but you are often self contained, unchallenging and unnecessary. It grounded me on aspects of fame and how it relates to the current rapid nature of today. But, I didn’t feel I learnt anything or understood someone else’s experiences any better in terms of mental health. Though voices in heads was a vehicle, I think it was misused and romanticised. Mental health issue are more than superhero voices and edgy Edward Norton on a roof smoking fags with gorgeous, underwritten Emma Stone.  Saying that, films about personal drama are rarely as watchable, light and uplifting.  Furthermore, the film didn’t make light of these issue, you are drawn into a character whose control of his situation and his self start to slip from grasp. Very much like a real life situation, however unlikeable he is at the beginning, by the end you are willing him to regain control and to recover. The film makes you consider the value of human life, even in some cunt you hate.
To conclude, this is a very good film.
(4+5)/√100

Mr Hummels