The Resurrection of Riggan, Reelive

Riggan
Riggan

I’m not really here.

Birdman
Birdman

You’re not here? You’re on stage, right? Get in your head!

Riggan
Riggan

Yeah, but I can’t do this—I’m a movie star!

Birdman
Birdman

You’re a joke. You might as well be dead.

Riggan
Riggan

No, I’m not! I’m making art! real art!

Birdman
Birdman

Art? This is just a desperate grasp for relevance.

Riggan
Riggan

I can still be who I am!

Birdman
Birdman

Who are you? You haven’t been that person in a long time.

Riggan
Riggan

Watch me!

Confrontation with Mike, Reelive

Riggan
Riggan

I’m the one directing this show!

Mike
Mike

You’re the one desperately clinging to your past!

Riggan
Riggan

No, I’m trying to create something real!

Mike
Mike

Real? Or just your projection of what ‘real’ should be?

Riggan
Riggan

I’m trying to tell a story!

Mike
Mike

But is it a story worth telling?

Riggan
Riggan

That’s not your call to make!

Mike
Mike

We’re all dealing with the same reality, Riggan.

Riggan
Riggan

You’re a parasite! Just feeding off my decisions!

Mike
Mike

And you’re a void, trying to fill it with nostalgia.

The Soul Searching, Reelive

Sylvia
Sylvia

What do you really want, Riggan?

Riggan
Riggan

I want to be respected. I want the world to see me.

Sylvia
Sylvia

You want that? Or do you want to fill the empty void?

Riggan
Riggan

I am filled with regret, yes!

Sylvia
Sylvia

You can’t prove anything on stage.

Riggan
Riggan

Then what’s the point of all this?

Sylvia
Sylvia

The point is to own your story.

Riggan
Riggan

I’m not sure who that is anymore.

A Father's Rage, Reelive

Sam
Sam

You think you can just turn up and be the dad now?

Riggan
Riggan

I’m here, aren’t I?

Sam
Sam

Physically, yes. Emotionally? No.

Riggan
Riggan

I’m trying!

Sam
Sam

Trying isn’t good enough!

Riggan
Riggan

What do you want from me?

Sam
Sam

I want honesty. I want you to stop pretending.

Riggan
Riggan

This isn’t about me!

Sam
Sam

That’s just it. It is always about you!

Riggan
Riggan

I just want to fix this!

The Final Scene, Reelive

Riggan
Riggan

This is it! This is my moment!

Birdman
Birdman

Are you ready to fly?

Riggan
Riggan

I am! I need to be!

Birdman
Birdman

Then show them who you really are!

Riggan
Riggan

I’m ready to own my mistakes!

Birdman
Birdman

No more hiding!

Riggan
Riggan

This time, they will see me!

Birdman
Birdman

You are free.

Riggan
Riggan

I will break the cage!

Audience Member
Audience Member

What a performance!

Riggan Thomson

You know what? You’re a f***ing coward! You know that? You have a bigger need to be liked than you do to be good.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

You’re not going to see me, you’re going to see the man in the mask! You don’t care about me!

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I’m just trying to create something that means something.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

The only thing that’s real is your life.

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You’re a has-been! You’re a washed-up movie star.

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I’m not trying to be a sellout. I’m trying to be a player.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Lesley

You’ve got to trust your instincts, man.

Lesley

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I want to be in a place where everyone knows me!

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You’re never done! You’re just starting.

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

Life is not a box office.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I’m not a superhero. I’m a man.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

What do you want?!

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I’m the guy who’s trying to make you laugh.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You’ll never be a star.

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Jake

You’re still in this race.

Jake

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I’m a real actor.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Tabitha

The thing about the theater is that it’s all just a performance.

Tabitha

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Emma

You’re just another story, Riggan.

Emma

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

There’s nothing more important than this.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

I've got to go out there and nail it.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You’re just another loser with a dream.

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

The hype is a lie.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You think you're the only one?

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Jake

This is a play, not a movie.

Jake

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Riggan Thomson

The past doesn’t matter.

Riggan Thomson

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Birdman

You’re losing control!

Birdman

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive
Lesley

The stage is where you’re most alive.

Lesley

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Reelive

How We Got Away

How We Got Away by Antonio Sanchez, Throughout the film, the drum score provides a continuous backdrop.

Not My Father’s Son

Not My Father’s Son by Antonio Sanchez, Played during key emotional moments.

I’m Going to Make You Love Me

I’m Going to Make You Love Me by Antonio Sanchez, Used in various scenes to enhance the narrative.


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The Birdman Appears

As Riggan Thompson struggles with his identity and purpose, he is confronted by the illusion of his past self, the Birdman. In a surreal moment, he argues with this persona in his mind amidst the chaos of backstage. The tension peaks when Riggan chooses to embrace his own identity instead of leaning on the Birdman’s legacy, symbolizing his internal battle. As the lights cast shadows across the stage, the audience senses the weight of Riggan’s choices and fears.

Context: This moment occurs when Riggan is at his lowest, questioning his worth and trying to prove he is more than a former superhero actor. The fear of failure looms large, and the duality of Riggan's character is highlighted.

The Opening Scene

The film starts with Riggan meditating in his dressing room, seemingly floating in the air. The moment is visually captivating and sets the tone for the film. It quickly establishes Riggan's mental state, as he grapples with the pressures of his upcoming Broadway play. The transition from serene to chaotic showcases Riggan's fragility and the heavy expectations placed upon him.

Context: This scene introduces the protagonist's struggles with his past fame as Birdman and hints at his desire for validation through art, setting up the film’s exploration of legacy and artistic integrity.

Riggan's First Performance

During the initial performance of the play, Riggan's nerves are palpable. As the curtain rises, he forgets his lines, creating an awkward and tense moment on stage. The crowd holds its breath, and the camera captures every detail of his discomfort. This pivotal moment heightens the stakes, as Riggan's fears about his career and self-worth are laid bare. Eventually, he recovers, but not without a sense of vulnerability that leaves the audience on edge.

Context: This moment is crucial as it reflects Riggan's deep-seated insecurities and the fear of public failure, setting the stage for his subsequent struggles throughout the play's run.

The Confrontation with Mike

Mike, a talented actor, confronts Riggan about his art and the authenticity of the play. The tension is thick as they clash over the nature of acting, with Mike questioning Riggan's motives and choices. Riggan passionately defends his vision, declaring, 'You’re not in it for the art. You’re in it for the attention.' The emotional intensity captures the essence of their rivalry and Riggan's desperation for genuine artistic expression.

Context: This scene marks a turning point in Riggan's character, revealing his internal conflict between ego and a desire for creative truth. It represents the clash of ideals in the acting world.

The Phone Call

Riggan has an emotional phone call with his daughter, Sam, where they share their grievances and fears. As he expresses his desire to prove himself and not to be seen just as 'Birdman,' the conversation becomes heartfelt. The climax of the scene arises when Sam points out Riggan’s need for validation from others. Riggan’s vulnerable response reflects his internal struggle and brings a moment of shared understanding between father and daughter.

Context: This scene deepens their relationship, showing the impact of Riggan's insecurities on his family and hinting at the larger themes of love, generational conflict, and the search for acceptance.

The Birdman March

In a dreamlike sequence, Riggan takes to the streets in a full bird costume, embodying his alter-ego. The scene mixes fantastical elements with a parade of onlookers, showcasing Riggan’s inner struggle. The pivotal moment happens when he embraces the Birdman persona fully, jumping and flying in a surreal atmosphere. This dream-like progression shows Riggan’s battle with his dual identity, teetering between reality and fantasy.

Context: This surreal episode emphasizes the themes of connection, fame, and the thin line between reality and performance. It serves as a visual representation of Riggan's desire to break free from his past.

The Breakdown

The moment where Riggan finally breaks down in front of his cast and crew is raw and emotional. With tears in his eyes, he screams about the pressures of being an artist and questions whether he can ever escape the shadow of Birdman. The scene is powerful due to its emotional honesty and intensity. Riggan strips away his bravado, unveiling his deepest fears and insecurities.

Context: This moment is critical for character development as Riggan’s explosive emotions reveal the crumbling facade he has maintained and set the stage for his eventual transformation.

The Final Scene

In a shocking conclusion, Riggan takes a drastic step of shooting himself on stage in a moment that melds reality and metaphor. The audience gasps, and the aftermath shows the crowd's reaction of disbelief. This pivotal moment symbolizes Riggan’s final attempt to escape the burden of his past and seek relevance in a new form. It’s haunting and thought-provoking, leaving viewers questioning the limits of art and personal sacrifice.

Context: The film culminates in this scene, beautifully combining thematic threads about identity, legacy, and the burdens of fame, giving the movie a powerful end that echoes long after.

The Argument with his Ex-Wife

During a heated exchange with his ex-wife, Riggan's vulnerability shines through. Their conversation reveals the scars of their past relationship, culminating in Riggan expressing how he feels lost and trapped. This point escalates with his wife asking him if he's delusional, leading to Riggan’s realization about the impact of his choices. It’s a heartfelt moment that exposes how deep-seated personal issues can haunt someone.

Context: This argument serves as a mirror to Riggan's psyche, illuminating how his past choices continue to shape his present and hinting at his ongoing quest for self-acceptance.

The Director's Speech

As the director, Tabitha, delivers a speech about the importance of honesty in theater, Riggan feels both challenged and enlightened. Her powerful words resonate with him, urging him to confront his fears and truly engage with his art. The emotional build-up peaks when Riggan acknowledges the weight of her expectations, ultimately inspiring a sense of resolve within him. It emphasizes the profound connection between audience and performance.

Context: This scene is pivotal as it introduces the theme of artistic integrity and the struggle between commercial success and genuine expression, pivotal to Riggan’s journey.

The Ghostly Encounter

In a surreal exchange, Riggan sees the Birdman materialize and confronts him about the choices he has made. Their dialogue is charged with existential questioning, highlighting Riggan’s crumbling mental state. The moment peaks when the Birdman urges Riggan to embrace his power instead of hiding behind his insecurities, stirring a complex mix of fear and longing in him. The visuals are haunting, creating an atmosphere of psychological depth.

Context: This encounter reveals the duality of Riggan’s character, establishing the conflict between his desire for artistic freedom and his fear of public perception, which is a central theme of the film.

The Misfire

An accidental firing of a prop gun during a rehearsal creates a tense moment of chaos. Riggan’s reaction showcases his fragility and the extreme pressures he faces. The tension peaks when he realizes the gravity of the situation—one small mistake could lead to disaster. The moment creates a beautiful juxtaposition of humor and horror, reflecting Riggan's precarious state of mind.

Context: This scene encapsulates the film’s tension, illustrating how the smallest errors can lead to significant consequences in the world of performance and perception.

The Reveal to the Critics

When Riggan finally addresses the critics in a bold manner, the emotional stakes are high. His declaration of intent to challenge their preconceived notions of art is powerful. The pivotal moment arises as he bravely states, 'I’m not doing this for you!' His vulnerability and earnestness resonate deeply, preparing the audience for the impending confrontation between artist and critic.

Context: This scene emphasizes the struggle between critics and artists, keying into the film’s recurring themes of validation and artistic expression, as Riggan remains desperate for acceptance.

Sam's Moment of Clarity

When Sam confronts Riggan about his obsession with fame and the choices he makes, it marks a moment of mutual understanding. Her emotional outpouring highlights her frustration with Riggan’s inability to see the damage he inflicts on their relationship. This moment encapsulates her growth as a character while illustrating Riggan’s flaws. It peaks when she declares, 'You’re not a great artist, you’re just a guy who was in a movie once.'

Context: This climactic realization for both characters brings clarity and reinforces the themes of generational conflict and the struggle for identity in a world obsessed with fame.

The Breakdown Backstage

Backstage moments before the play, Riggan experiences a mental breakdown, talking to himself as he battles with doubt. The camera captures his erratic gestures and whispered fears about being ‘a washed-up actor.’ This pivotal moment is filled with tension and unease as his psychological state unravels in front of the audience and his crew, representing the pressures he faces.

Context: This scene illustrates the psychological conflict at the core of Riggan’s journey, portraying the societal expectations tied to success and the toll it takes on his mental health.

The Emotional Goodbye

In an emotionally charged farewell with his daughter Sam, Riggan reflects on his failures and attempts to reconcile. As tears fall, he admits his vulnerability, telling her he wasn’t there for her. This moment peaks when their connection deepens, showcasing how trauma can build barriers between loved ones. The emotional truth shines through as they embrace each other.

Context: This heartfelt interaction underscores the theme of familial reconciliation amidst chaos and serves as a turning point for both characters' arcs.

The Accidental Fame

A viral moment happens when Riggan accidentally becomes a trending topic on social media due to his unconventional actions. The chaotic reaction from the public juxtaposes the impact of fame versus the authenticity of art. Riggan’s face displays confusion and disbelief, showcasing his struggle with the superficial nature of modern recognition.

Context: This scene critiques the concept of fame in contemporary society, paralleling Riggan’s journey with the broader commentary on the art versus publicity dilemma.

The Final Performance

During the climactic final performance of the play, Riggan delivers a heartfelt monologue that transcends mere acting. His vulnerability and deep connection to the material peak in an emotionally charged scene. The audience is captivated as Riggan pours his soul into his words, symbolizing his full-circle journey towards self-acceptance. As he finishes, the applause feels genuine, a sign of triumph.

Context: This represents the culmination of Riggan’s emotional journey, illustrating the potential for redemption and the power of authentic expression in a tumultuous world.

The Critic's Review

The aftermath of the performance leads to a harsh review from a prominent critic. As Riggan reads the review, his face reflects despair and anger, highlighting the severity of criticism in an artistic career. The emotional weight of the moment builds as Riggan grapples with feelings of inadequacy. The camera captures his reaction to the cruel words that cut deep.

Context: This scene encapsulates the harsh realities of artistic life, emphasizing the fragile relationship between an artist's worth and public opinion, which is central to the film’s exploration of identity.

The Shattering Moment

At a pivotal moment during the climax of the play, Riggan shatters the glass walls of his own limitations. In a fit of rage and emotion, he throws himself against the wall, metaphorically breaking the restraints of his past. This moment is visually striking and potent, leaving viewers in awe of his transformation.

Context: This action symbolizes Riggan’s fight against his inner demons and his desire to break free from the constraints of public perception, enhancing the film's thematic depth.

The Redemption Arc

In what feels like a moment of redemption, Riggan stands on the stage with the spotlight on him. He looks out towards the audience with a new sense of peace. The moment peaks as he seems to finally let go of the Birdman persona, symbolizing the acceptance of his identity. This layers the emotional depth of the final scene.

Context: This transformative moment represents the culmination of Riggan’s journey towards acceptance and authenticity, offering a powerful statement about self-identity that resonates long after.

The Fleeting Moment of Joy

Riggan shares a moment of pure joy with his fellow actors before the curtain rises, revealing a camaraderie that had been missing before. This brief moment of laughter and connection peaks as they celebrate the fragility of life and art together. The light-hearted banter feels genuine and contrasts sharply with the darker themes of the film.

Context: This scene illustrates the importance of connection and friendship within the chaos and pressure of artistic creation, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the storms of their struggles.

The Transformation into Birdman

In a grandiose fantasy sequence, Riggan fully embraces the Birdman persona on stage in front of the audience. His physical transformation is striking as he appears to fly through the air, executing bold movements. This visually stunning moment represents the ultimate surrender to his past and the struggle for self-identity.

Context: This scene serves as a pivotal metaphor for the internal conflict between Riggan's past and present, emphasizing the overarching theme of finding one's true self.


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Continuous Shot Illusion

The film is designed to appear as if it was filmed in one continuous shot, achieved through expert editing and clever camera movements.

Why it matters: This technique immerses the audience in the real-time unfolding of events, enhancing the film's sense of urgency and intensity.

Rigorous Rehearsals

The cast underwent extensive rehearsals, sometimes for several weeks, to master the choreography of the seamless shots.

Why it matters: These rehearsals enabled actors to deliver performances with an authenticity and fluidity that matched the film’s real-time narrative style.

Unique Camera Work

Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki used a Steadicam for most of the shots, allowing for dynamic movement through the theater set.

Why it matters: This choice contributed to the visceral feel of the film, as it captured the chaos and momentum of the characters’ lives seamlessly.

Nourishing the Cast

The cast was fed a carefully curated diet to maintain their energy levels during long shooting days.

Why it matters: This attention to actors' physical condition ensured that they were able to deliver high-energy performances throughout the filming process.

Edward Norton’s Method Acting

Edward Norton took his role very seriously, often clashing with Michael Keaton on set as he embodied the role of an unpredictable method actor.

Why it matters: The tension between the two actors resulted in a more palpable on-screen dynamic, enhancing the film's exploration of ego and artistry.

Live Music Performance

The film features a score performed live by jazz drummer Antonio Sanchez, representing Riggan’s psychological state.

Why it matters: The live drumming adds a layer of spontaneity and energy, making audiences feel the character's anxiety and ambition resonate through sound.

Samantha's Stunt

Naomi Watts performed her character’s stunts, including a dramatic fall during a pivotal scene.

Why it matters: Her commitment added authenticity to the performance, making the character's emotional turmoil more relatable.

Theatrical Setting

The majority of the film is set inside a Broadway theater, which influenced the on-screen performances and character interactions.

Why it matters: This confined setting intensified the characters' psychological struggles, mirroring the claustrophobia of their personal battles.

Influence of Alejandro González Iñárritu's Past

Director Alejandro González Iñárritu drew from his own experiences in the theatrical world and his struggles with fame.

Why it matters: This personal connection infused the narrative with authenticity, making the film a rich commentary on the nature of success and failure.

Change in Ending

The original ending was altered after test screenings, leading to a more ambiguous conclusion that left audiences questioning Riggan's fate.

Why it matters: This shift deepened the film's thematic exploration of identity and the fine line between reality and performance.

Michael Keaton’s Parallels

Michael Keaton's casting was marked by parallels to his own career, with his past as a superhero adding depth to the narrative.

Why it matters: This meta-commentary on Keaton's life and career created an additional layer of irony and complexity to the character of Riggan.

Spotting Real Broadway Actors

Many of the supporting cast are actual Broadway actors, bringing authenticity to the theatrical world depicted in the film.

Why it matters: This choice enhanced the film's realism and highlighted the pressures and aspirations of those in the theater industry.

Therapeutic Use of Theater

Iñárritu used theater as a metaphor for personal healing and exploration of self, mirroring Riggan’s journey.

Why it matters: This thematic choice enriched the narrative, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of the character's internal struggles.

Dialogue Improvisation

Some dialogue was improvised by actors during shooting, adding a level of spontaneity to their interactions.

Why it matters: This improvisation made the dialogue feel organic, which served to enhance the film's real-time, documentary-style storytelling.

Birdman's Voice

The character of Birdman, Riggan's alter ego, was voiced by Iñárritu's friend, which added an unsettling personal touch.

Why it matters: This choice blurred the lines between Riggan’s reality and hallucinations, further emphasizing his psychological struggle.

Social Commentary

The film serves as a critique of the superficiality of social media and celebrity culture.

Why it matters: This layer of meaning invites audiences to reflect on the societal pressures artists face in contemporary culture.

Symbolic Costumes

Costumes were designed to represent the characters' inner turmoil, with Riggan’s Birdman costume embodying his conflicted identity.

Why it matters: These visual cues contribute to the film’s symbolic storytelling, making the character's transformation more visually apparent.

The Hospital Scene

The hospital scene was shot in a real hospital, lending authenticity to the desperate moments of the characters.

Why it matters: This realism grounds the audience in the film's emotional stakes, enhancing the engagement with Riggan's journey.

Influence of Charlie Chaplin

Iñárritu cites Charlie Chaplin as a major influence, particularly in blending humor with poignant themes.

Why it matters: This homage enriches the narrative, making the film both comedic and heartbreaking simultaneously.

Technical Challenges

The film’s ambitious shooting style presented numerous technical challenges, which required creative solutions from the crew.

Why it matters: These challenges fostered collaboration among the cast and crew, strengthening their collective investment in the film’s vision.

Emotional Climax

The film's emotional climax was meticulously crafted to resonate with the viewer’s own insecurities about self-worth and relevance.

Why it matters: This focus on emotional truth creates a powerful connection between the film and its audience, making it memorable.

Keaton's Desire for Authenticity

Michael Keaton insisted on performing his own stunts, reflecting his desire for authenticity in Riggan’s character.

Why it matters: This commitment grounded his performance, adding layers of realism and vulnerability that elevate the character.

Hidden Cameo

A hidden cameo from the Broadway star that Riggan’s play is competing against highlights the competitive nature of the theater world.

Why it matters: This subtle detail deepens the world-building and adds an extra layer of rivalry that enhances the narrative tension.

Post-production Sound Design

Post-production involved heavy integration of sound effects to enhance the visceral feel of the film.

Why it matters: These sound design choices create an immersive experience, amplifying the psychological tension felt throughout the movie.

Deconstructing the Hero Archetype

The film actively deconstructs traditional hero tropes, presenting Riggan as an anti-hero grappling with failures.

Why it matters: This subversion invites viewers to question conventional narratives of success, making for a thought-provoking experience.

Iñárritu’s Experimental Approach

Alejandro Iñárritu viewed 'Birdman' as an experimental film pushing boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Why it matters: This mindset led to innovative techniques that contributed a fresh perspective to the genre, marking 'Birdman' as a modern classic.


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The Big Blue

L'Eclisse

Rain Man