Birdman, is something of a comeback for Michael Keaton who plays a washed-up actor named Riggan Thomas. Riggan is well known as a much loved super hero called “The Birdman”, and has featured in three previous films in the franchise. After turning down a fourth instalment, Riggan looks to reinvent himself as the star and director of a play called “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love”.

Edward Norton is Mike Shiner, a popular Broadway actor who although an exceptional method actor, is erratic and unpredictable. Replacing Riggan’s male lead at short notice, Mike is beginning to receive more press than him, once again playing on Riggan’s insecurities.

Keaton is supported by a strong cast including Zach Galifianakis who is Jake, Riggan’s best friend and lawyer who is producing the play, Emma Stone as his recovering addict daughter Sam, and Naomi Watts who is debuting on Broadway as lead actress Lesley.

In fear of failure and in contrast to his earlier career, Riggan is desperate for success beyond the “cartoon character” he is known for. Pushed professionally and emotionally by the shadows of his Birdman past, the voice in his head of this successful character perpetually belittles him. Although a superhero in the past, he feels anything but invincible now as his Birdman voice tells him to put his cape back on.

In a film where it could be easy to say that “life imitates art”, Keaton could be compared to Riggan as one of his most successful roles was superhero Batman in the 1980’s.

In an indication of the critical acclaim being heaped upon Birdman, it received seven 2015 Golden Globe nominations where Michael Keaton won the Golden Globe for Best Actor. Birdman has also received 9 Academy Awards nominations for this years Oscars.

Birdman is in Cinemas Now