“Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” is a 2014 American black comedy-drama film directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu. The film stars Michael Keaton as Riggan Thomson, a washed-up Hollywood actor best known for playing the superhero Birdman in a series of blockbuster films. Riggan is struggling to mount a Broadway play based on a Raymond Carver short story, and he hopes the play will revive his career and prove to the world that he is a serious artist.

The film explores themes of identity, ego, and the search for validation, as Riggan navigates the challenges of putting on a play while dealing with personal and professional pressures. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, and Zach Galifianakis, and is notable for its innovative use of long takes, seamless editing, and a jazz drum score that emphasizes the film’s frenetic energy.

“Birdman” was critically acclaimed upon its release, and it won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. It has since become known for its unique visual style and its exploration of the highs and lows of the entertainment industry.