Plot summary

Decades ago, former Hollywood actor Riggan Thomson tasted fame as the blockbuster superhero Birdman. Nowadays, the washed-up star wants to reinvent his career and leave his mark on cinema history. To bounce back, Riggan attempts to write, direct, and star in his debut Broadway production: an ambitious adaptation of Raymond Carver's short story, What We Talk About When We Talk About Love. Determined to make it work, Riggan gives his all to overcome obstacle after obstacle, including pretentious co-stars, malicious critics, and the exhausting effect of turbulent family drama. And as if that weren't enough, Riggan must escape the shadow of his bizarre, iconic alter-ego at all costs. With his sanity at stake, is Riggan Thomson destined for glory?—Nick Riganas