Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

Year: 2014

Runtime: 1 h 59 m

Language: English

Director: Alejandro G. Iñárritu

ComedyDrama

A washed-up actor, once famous for playing a superhero, attempts a comeback on Broadway with a bold new stage play. Battling inner demons and the pressures of a demanding production, he struggles with the blurred lines between reality and illusion. As he chases a desperate need for validation, he confronts his past failures and the complicated relationships with those around him, ultimately questioning his sense of self and the pursuit of artistic recognition.

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Timeline & Setting – Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in contemporary times, reflecting the modern challenges faced by actors in the fast-paced entertainment industry. The juxtaposition of Riggan Thomson's past during the late 20th century with the current struggles illustrates the transition in Hollywood and Broadway.

Location

Broadway Theater, New York City

The movie primarily takes place in a Broadway theater in New York City, a hub of vibrant arts and performances. Broadway is renowned for its rich theatrical history and showcases a variety of productions ranging from classic plays to modern musicals. The bustling atmosphere around the theater reflects the highs and lows of the performing arts world.

🏙️ City 🎭 Theater

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:18

Main Characters – Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)

Meet the key characters of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton)

Riggan is a complex character, a once-celebrated actor struggling with his fading relevance in the contemporary entertainment landscape. Haunted by the persona of Birdman, he experiences profound insecurities and internal conflicts. His ambition drives him to take considerable risks in a desperate attempt to reclaim his former glory.

🎬 Actor 🌪️ Struggler

Sam Thomson (Emma Stone)

Sam is Riggan's daughter, navigating her own challenges while serving as a source of support and tension for her father. A recovering substance abuser, she embodies both the complexities of familial relationships and the generational disconnect between Riggan's past fame and her modern sensibilities.

👩‍🎤 Daughter 🌱 Recovery

Jake (Zach Galifianakis)

Jake is Riggan's dedicated attorney and friend, providing unwavering support during the tumultuous production of the play. His loyalty contrasts with the chaos surrounding them, and his humor offers comic relief amidst the stress. He is a stabilizing force in Riggan's life, even as he faces personal dilemmas.

📜 Lawyer 🤝 Supportive

Mike Shiner (Edward Norton)

Mike is a passionate and unpredictable method actor whose desire for authenticity adds tension to the production. His volatile nature challenges Riggan's control, forcing him to reconsider his artistic vision as they navigate the competitive world of Broadway. His relationship with Lesley complicates the dynamics at play.

🎭 Actor 🔥 Volatile

Laura (Andrea Riseborough)

Laura is Riggan's girlfriend, an ambitious actress who embodies the challenges of balancing personal and professional aspirations. Her declining relationship with Riggan, alongside her involvement in the production, highlights the emotional toll faced by those pursuing love and success in a demanding industry.

💕 Girlfriend 🎭 Actress

Lesley (Naomi Watts)

Lesley is a talented actress who aspires for success in the competitive world of Broadway. She is caught between her role in the play and her relationship with Mike, reflecting the complexities and pressures faced by aspiring artists. Her ambition and interactions add layers to the unfolding drama.

🎭 Actress 🎉 Ambitious

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:18

Major Themes – Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)

Explore the central themes of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌟 Identity

The theme of identity is central to Riggan's journey as he grapples with his past as Birdman and his current self. His struggle to redefine who he is in the face of public perception and personal doubt highlights the broader issue of an artist's quest for self-acceptance and validation. Riggan's internal conflict drives the narrative, questioning what it truly means to be relevant in the modern world.

🎭 Art vs. Commerce

The clash between artistic vision and commercial success is depicted through Riggan's endeavor to stage a serious play while dealing with the pressure of box office expectations. His experiences reveal the tension between integrity in art and the demands of the entertainment market, prompting critical reflections on the compromises made for success.

💔 Desperation

Desperation permeates Riggan's journey as he confronts the fear of failure and the threat of obscurity. This theme is vividly portrayed through his troubled relationships and the lengths to which he goes to revive his career. The climax of his emotional turmoil culminates in a tragic decision, illustrating the profound impact of unbridled ambition.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:18

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Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Summary

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Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Summary

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Timeline

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Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Timeline

More About Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

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