Birdman Opens to Raves, Keaton Rises

It’s gives too much away to note the irony in reporting the success of Birdman, one of the most clever films to come along in a good while. Don’t miss Kris Tapley’s piece, Give Keaton the Oscar, which serves as a reminder that sometimes it’s difficult to win Best Actor when you are someone who came from comedy. It’s the same old story every year – there is a kind of mental block when it comes to funny people who take on serious roles. Robin Williams was one exception, of course, but generally speaking, there continues to be carry-over from the old days where comedic actors can never be true thespians.

It should not come as a shock that Keaton is the frontrunner in the category, as his performance is one of the best of the year.  Raves from critics, calling it the Best Performance of his career, is part of the job. The next part will likely be Keaton winning the early critics awards. Finally, if he wants to win and there is no indication that he does, he’ll have to “kiss babies.” Winning often requires lots and lots of publicity. Think: Jeff Bridges during Crazy Heart.

Either way, it appears to be so far a three man race with Keaton, Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne competing for the win.

And full disclosure: no, I did not get one of those limited edition Birdman statues. I genuinely liked the film.