“Birdman” follows the last few moments before Riggan (Michael Keaton), who is otherwise known better by his most famous character “Birdman,” unveils his debut Broadway play in which he is both acting and directing.

The underlying plot, however, takes viewers through the mental toll the production has on Riggan as every wrench is thrown into the cogs before it actually premieres.

The story is about a play, and the movie feels like one as well. Each scene is filmed in one shot, and the entire film is edited to make each scene’s transition seamless.

The result is a movie where every moment, from the passionate kisses to the heated arguments and glasses thrown against walls, becomes much more intense and real. Just like watching a play, I felt more emotionally attached to these characters than any other movie I’ve seen.

It’s a true testament to the cast’s ability to keep its composure so well during these scenes. It’s one thing not to break character or mess up a 30-second shot. For six minutes it’s nothing sort of fantastic.

But it’s more than the leads who had to do this; it’s also the audience in the theatre, the dozens of passers-by on the street and the patrons in the bar who elevate “Birdman” from being more than a great movie, but instead a masterpiece.

“Birdman” was a risky project that couldn’t have been more successful in its execution. It’s a movie that shines in every aspect, but above all, it’s cinematography. It’s the cinematography that helps bring everything else to life, resulting in one of the best movies to hit the silver screen in some time.