Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)

"Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" is a daring American black comedy-drama directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, released in 2014. Co-written by Iñárritu with Nicolás Giacobone, Alexander Dinelaris Jr., and Armando Bo, it’s a virtuosic exploration of fame, identity, and artistic redemption, shot to mimic a single continuous take. The story centers on Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up actor once famous for playing the superhero Birdman, now struggling to reclaim relevance by writing, directing, and starring in a Broadway adaptation of Raymond Carver’s short story. As opening night looms, Riggan battles his ego—embodied by the taunting voice of Birdman—while juggling a volatile cast, including the brilliant but unhinged Mike Shiner (Edward Norton), and personal crises with his daughter Sam (Emma Stone) and ex-wife Sylvia (Amy Ryan). His quest for authenticity spirals into chaos, blurring reality with surreal flights of fancy. Lauded for its innovative cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki, a jazzy score by Antonio Sánchez, and powerhouse performances—especially Keaton’s career-defining turn—"Birdman" is a meta masterpiece. It skewers Hollywood, theater, and the human condition with biting wit and visceral energy. The film swept the 2015 Oscars, winning Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. Released in 2014, "Birdman" captivated audiences and critics alike, hailed as a cinematic triumph that redefined storytelling. Its dizzying ambition and raw emotional core make it a modern classic, leaving an indelible mark on film history.