Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtitude of Ignorance)" courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, employing the use of Arri Alexa digital cameras to capture the film's intricate visuals. This release showcases Emmanuel Lubezki's award-winning cinematography with remarkable clarity and fine detail, especially noted in close-ups and the various, detailed textures of faces, costumes, sets, and locations. The film's distinctive, long unedited takes, recorded using a blend of handheld, Steadicam, and other methods, exhibit minimal issues with stability and maintain an appealing sharpness throughout, despite being set largely in dimly lit backdrops where shadow detail remains impressively strong.

Color reproduction on this Blu-ray is faithful and dynamic, avoiding overt color grading to allow the film's varied lighting schemes—from dense colored lighting to natural hues—to shine through without significant loss of detail. The image has a pleasing level of dimension that enhances the sense of depth in the roaming shots, further immersing the viewer in the theatrical environment portrayed. Despite the largely problem-free presentation, there are minimal issues noted, including slight image instability in early scenes, minor false contouring, and rare moments of slight blurring in rapid motions. These imperfections are minimal and likely a result of the original digital source's characteristics and the challenging shooting methods rather than the transfer process itself.

Overall, the Blu-ray release delivers a stunning high-definition experience that does justice to the film's visual ethos. With a light layer of grain-like noise adding to the cinematic texture and a high contrast that produces vivid whites and deep blacks without blooming, viewers can expect a visually engaging experience. The minor issues like incremental image instability and barely noticeable banding are so negligible that they do not detract from what is an exemplary demonstration of high-definition presentation.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix of "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" on Blu Ray stands as a masterclass in how to create a subtly immersive audio environment that enhances the cinematic experience. The audio mix excels in delivering clean, crisp dialogue, ensuring that every word, be it whispered behind the curtain or shouted from the rooftop, is captured with pristine clarity. This is particularly impressive given the complex nature of the film's soundstage—a bustling backstage of a Broadway play, filled with an array of ambient sounds, from the distant closing of doors to the lively hum of New York City. The mix impressively balances these elements, offering an intricate soundscape that extends well beyond the physical confines of the screen, permitting audience immersion into the theatrical world of Riggan Thomson and his alter ego, Birdman.

Central to the film's auditory appeal is its innovative score, comprised predominantly of drum cues with occasional classical music interludes. The score is rendered with exceptional fidelity, providing a dynamic backdrop that punctuates the narrative's emotional beats with a visceral energy. Through effective use of discrete channelization, drums dynamically interrupt the flow, adding an element of surprise that commands attention, ensuring viewers remain engaged and alert. Furthermore, strategic placement of sound across the channels effectively simulates the chaotic energy of a live theater production, creating a sense of space and movement that is both enveloping and convincingly real.

In addition to its technical prowess, the audio presentation benefits from a thoughtful mix that prioritizes balance and atmosphere. Whether through the directional spreading of voices across the soundscape or in the handling of more bombastic moments—like an action-packed scene blasting through with clarity and power—each aspect of the mix contributes to a seamless auditory experience. Moreover, the layering of sound, from the background chatter of the theater's wings to the vibrant pulse of New York City life outside, results in a deeply textured track that acts as a natural extension of the film's visual storytelling. In essence, the audio not only supports but enriches the narrative, pulling the audience deeper into Riggan's crumbling world with an immediacy that is both compelling and wholly absorbing.

The Blu-ray extras for "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtitude of Ignorance)" deliver a concise yet compelling package that provides an insightful look into the movie's creation. "Birdman: All Access" offers substantial behind-the-scenes footage, highlighting director Alejandro G. Iñárritu's efforts to create unity among the cast and crew, as well as discussions about the film's unique visual style and the extensive rehearsal process required for its long takes. "A Conversation with Michael Keaton and Alejandro G. Iñárritu" presents an engaging dialogue between actor and director, focusing on the experiential nature of the film rather than its critical analysis. The "Gallery: Chivo's On-Set Photography" provides a visually stunning collection of 41 stills, capturing the essence of the movie's production. Together, these extras enrich the viewer's understanding of the film through a blend of personal reflections and technical discussions, all while maintaining a direct and professional tone.

Extras included in this disc:

• Birdman: All Access: Behind-the-scenes look at the film's production, cast & crew interviews, and insights into the creative process.
• A Conversation with Michael Keaton and Alejandro G. Iñárritu: An engaging dialogue that explores the film's themes, style, and characters.
• Gallery: Chivo's On-Set Photography: A collection of 41 still photographs from the production, available with Manual and Auto Advance options.

Revisiting the Pinnacle with "Birdman": A Blu-ray Movie Review

Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" hurls itself into the blustery realms where cinema and stage, reality and fantasy, converge with a raw, yet meticulously orchestrated fervor that is as incendiary as it is introspective. It's a narrative deeply rooted in the dichotomies of artistry and celebrity, where Michael Keaton's Riggan Thomson—once an emblem of superhero celluloid glory, now teetering on the precipice of obsolescence—vows redemption through the Broadway stage. Keaton, resurrecting whispers of his own career's parallels, delivers a portrayal that blurs the lines between persona and person, effortlessly transitioning from vulnerability to vehemence, embodying Riggan with every fiber of his being.

At its core, "Birdman" unfurls as a scathing satire, yet it pulsates with the genuine hearts of its characters, particularly amidst the chaos of the St. James Theater's backstage—an arena where egos clash and dreams hang precariously. Edward Norton shines as the egotistical yet indispensable Mike Shiner, bringing humor and depth to the ensemble cast that includes Emma Stone and Naomi Watts, each contributing to the film's vibrant tapestry with performances that meld seamlessly into Iñárritu’s vision. This narrative tapestry is further enriched by the director’s audacious use of continuous long takes, executed with such finesse that it immerses viewers directly into the kinetic energy and growing turmoil of Riggan’s world—a world on the brink of either triumph or disaster.

The cinematography and visual storytelling transcend conventional boundaries, employing a single-take illusion that not only heightens the immediacy of each moment but also mirrors the film’s thematic exploration of authenticity versus artificiality. This technique, combined with the film's probing into the existential struggles of its protagonist, crafts a viewing experience that oscillates between moments of frenetic tension and introspective stillness—ultimately questioning what it means to achieve relevance and legacy in the fleeting panorama of fame. "Birdman" stands not merely as a film but as a phenomenon, challenging both its characters and its audience to confront the illusions we fabricate about success, significance, and the artistry that lies within us all.

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" stands out as a cinematic marvel, seamlessly blending dark humor, human nature, and art with an undertone of ego examination. Directed by Alejandro G. Inarritu, the film captivates audiences through its intricate mix of backstage drama and elements of magical realism, making it a unique spectacle in recent film history. The extraordinary unblinking visual style, alongside impeccable cinematography and sound design, is highlighted by an exceptional Blu-ray video and audio transfer, ensuring viewers are as engrossed in the technical aspects as they are with the storyline. While it may raise more questions than answers, its exploration into the complexity of its characters, particularly Michael Keaton's striking performance, enriches the viewing experience.

Despite a lack of extensive supplements, the Blu-ray release doesn’t falter in showcasing the strenuous efforts behind its production. The available extras offer valuable insights into the film's challenging creation process, enhancing appreciation for this masterpiece. Critics and fans alike will find the presentation on Blu-ray a testament to its deserved accolade as a Best Picture winner. Its narrative depth, bolstered by a blend of satire and sincerity, secures its position among the most extraordinary films of the era.

In conclusion, "Birdman" on Blu-ray is not just a testament to Alejandro G. Inarritu's visionary direction but is also a technical showcase that merits its high recommendation. This release encapsulates the essence of what makes the film a standout piece of cinematic art. While supplements are few, the overall presentation solidifies "Birdman" as a must-have for enthusiasts seeking a combination of profound storytelling and technical excellence. Its legacy as one of the best Blu-rays released, capturing the essence and innovation of modern cinema, remains uncontested.