The film revolves around Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up actor best known for playing the iconic superhero Birdman in a film franchise. Riggan decides to revive his career and gain respect as an actor by adapting, directing, and starring in a Broadway play based on Raymond Carver’s short story “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.”
As the production progresses, Riggan faces various challenges, including conflicts with his co-stars, family issues, and the stress of putting on a Broadway show. Throughout the film, Riggan hears the voice of Birdman in his head, symbolizing his struggle with his past and the superhero persona that once defined him.
One of the key elements of the film is the blurred line between reality and fantasy. Riggan experiences surreal occurrences, suggesting a blending of his mental state with the events around him. These moments include telekinetic abilities, flying, and encounters with the character Birdman.
As the opening night approaches, Riggan’s mental state becomes increasingly unstable. He replaces an injured actor with Mike Shiner (Edward Norton), a talented but unpredictable performer. The play’s preview is chaotic, with Riggan facing challenges both on and off the stage.
On the night of the actual performance, Riggan is locked out of the theater in his underwear. Desperate, he walks through Times Square in his robe, eventually making it back to the theater. The play’s final scene involves Riggan committing suicide on stage, shooting himself in the head.
In the aftermath, Riggan wakes up in a hospital, having survived the gunshot. His suicide attempt becomes a sensation, and the play receives rave reviews. Riggan gains the respect he sought, but the film concludes with uncertainty about whether he truly achieved artistic fulfillment.
“Birdman” received widespread acclaim for its innovative filmmaking, performances, and exploration of the actor’s psyche. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. The film’s intricate narrative and technical achievements contribute to its status as a unique and memorable cinematic experience.