The film was shot in New York City. The main setting of the film is the St. James Theatre in New York, located on 44th Street. The theater stage and main entrance are real locations, while the rest of the premises, including dressing rooms and corridors, were recreated at Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens. Michael Keaton's walk in his underwear through Times Square was also filmed on location. The film combines location shooting in iconic New York spots with studio work, creating a unique visual style.

Filming Locations:

Street

In the Movie

Scene where Riggan walks with Mike to get coffee. Riggan Thomson is staging a Broadway adaptation of Raymond Carver's short story collection "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love." He acts as director, producer, and lead actor in this production, investing all his energy and resources into the project, hoping to regain recognition and prove himself as a serious actor. Mike Shiner joins the play after the previous actor is injured. He is talented and charismatic, but his unpredictable nature creates many problems. A conflict brews between Riggan and Mike due to creative differences and personal ambitions. In this scene, Riggan tries to discuss their interaction difficulties privately with Mike and reach an agreement for the sake of the play.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on West 44th Street in Manhattan, between 7th and 8th Avenues. This location is part of New York's famous theater district, known as Broadway. It is a hub of theatrical life, home to numerous theaters hosting renowned Broadway productions. The street also features many restaurants, bars, and shops catering to theatergoers and tourists. It is a lively and culturally rich place that attracts many people daily. Near West 44th Street are landmarks such as Times Square and Bryant Park. The choice of this location perfectly aligns with the plot and theme of the film. Since the film tells the story of the backstage life of a Broadway production and an actor's personal struggle for recognition, this street is a natural and symbolic setting for the events. It conveys the atmosphere of the theater world—its tension, ambitions, and chaos—adding realism to the story. Viewers can feel part of this environment, enhancing the film's impact.

Theater

In the Movie

Scene where Riggan goes on stage to finish the play. He decides to use a real gun instead of a prop when his character is supposed to commit suicide. This action becomes the climax of his internal struggle and crisis, as he tries to prove his worth as an actor and a person. He shoots himself in the head on stage, shocking the audience. This event not only shocks the public but also symbolizes Riggan's final liberation from his alter ego Birdman. The play, initially conceived as a way to regain fame and recognition, becomes the site of his catharsis. After the incident, the play achieves unexpected success, and Riggan finally attains the recognition he dreamed of, but at the cost of his life.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the St. James Theatre, one of the most famous Broadway theaters. It is renowned for its rich history associated with many successful musicals. The theater building features an exquisite Beaux-Arts interior with two balconies and a gilded auditorium. The choice of the St. James Theatre as the primary filming location was due to its historical significance and authentic Broadway theater atmosphere. The film tells the story of an actor trying to revive his career on Broadway, so filming in a real theater adds realism and depth to the narrative.

Bar

In the Movie

Scene where Riggan and Mike discuss the play in a bar. After Riggan sabotages the preview, Mike ducks into a bar, and Riggan follows him. In the bar, they discuss why Riggan is so invested in the play. Riggan tells about a napkin with Raymond Carver's words that he received in his youth. Mike, however, points out that the napkin is from a bar, so Carver might have just been drunk, devaluing the gift's significance for Riggan. In the middle of the discussion, a fan approaches Riggan and asks Mike to take a photo of them. Mike reluctantly agrees and then leaves.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at The Rum House bar. This is a cocktail bar located on Broadway and 8th Avenue, in the heart of the Theater District. It is known for its expertly crafted cocktails, especially rum-based ones, as well as live music that plays every evening. The place attracts both locals and tourists looking to enjoy quality drinks and a pleasant atmosphere in the center of Times Square. The choice of The Rum House as a filming location fits perfectly into the overall concept of the film. Located in the Theater District, it reflects the atmosphere of Broadway life, which is a central theme of the film. The bar's interior and atmosphere create a sense of authenticity and immerse the viewer in the world of theatrical intrigue and personal experiences of the characters.