'Birdman' Might Save Us From the Superhero Genre

First and foremost: Welcome back, Michael Keaton. We've been giddy ever since it was announced that he'd be returning for the Beetlejuice sequel. And now, with the just-released trailer for Birdman, it looks like he's making a big, big comeback. Though the trailer would have you think Birdman is some sort of Vanilla Sky / Memento / Eyes Wide Shut arthouse thriller, it's actually a dark comedy. Yep, this pulsing, demented trailer is for a movie that pokes fun at the whole superhero genre — which stars someone who once played one of the most famous superheroes of all time. And oh, it is just delicious.

Keaton plays a has-been actor who once lived in the glow of the Hollywood limelight for starring in Birdman, a much-beloved superhero franchise. He tries to revive his career by taking on the Broadway stage. The movie is as tongue-in-cheek as it is deadpan serious. The trailer makes you uneasy in a way that leaves you wanting more; Keaton's got something going on here, and I for one can't wait to see more.

Alongside the former Batman himself, Birdman stars Emma Stone (squee!), Zach Galifianakis (whee!), Edward Norton (yay!), Merritt Wever (double yay!), and Naomi Watts (all of the yays!). There is a lot to be excited about this brand-new Alejandro González Iñárritu joint, y'all. Take a look.

Image: New Regency Pictures