Saw Birdman finally! Vastly different then all of Alejandro González Iñárritus other films. Most notably in the style of the acting. Usually his hyper realistic approach through the performances were always balanced with his wildly ambitious style of editing. He does all new things here, the performances are still very strong but very stage-y (which given the context of the film, makes sense). Edward Norton got it and it was the first performance from him Ive enjoyed since the early days of his career. He didnt steal the show but he was the consummate supporting actor (while playing a character who was anything but to his fellow performers). Michael Keaton has always been my dude and his slightly over the top style of his early days and his more laid back style of today find an interesting blend here... the long takes in the film work sometimes to illuminate the performances and at other times I think the film was TOO stage-y and the choice verged on gimmick. Other directors have pulled it off better... Gasper Nole for example in both Irreversible and Enter the Void explored the same philosophical & artistic reasoning that Alejandro has been talking about in interviews except in Noles films they executed it better. The writing was a little sophomoric at times, most noticeably in the dialogue however structurally speaking it was interesting. Reminded me of something I might have written in college. That may sound arrogant in somehow suggesting Ive outgrown it. I only mean that its chaotic, glib, sardonic style as well of its style of comedy and blending of fantasy were all things I employed heavily during that period. Even with these gripes and comments, overall I enjoyed it quite a bit. Its easily one of the better films Ive seen this year. There was a point made in the film about critics... the fact that they dont risk anything and while I dont really care for critics either, I completely disagree. These are people who live off their opinions. Those opinions are in print and people often chide and hate them for those opinions. Theres a level of pressure from such a job. Taking a stance is often difficult and when you live off your opinions as critics do, its hard to admit you were wrong or even change your mind as itll show weakness. If you cant stand behind your opinion, how can anyone else? Its a risk. Anyhow see Birdman, take the ride.
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 04:10:42 +0000
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