An Analysis Of "Perfectionists" Portrayed In Films

 

The feeling of wanting to be perfect all the time can be a stepping stone for improvement, learning and development. By setting a high standard, individuals are pushed to stretch their capabilities and explore new boundaries. Those who identify as "perfectionists" are mostly aware of their responsibilities. They will make sure that every task is well executed.

However, perfectionism can also be a dangerous thing. The relentless pursuit of flawlessness can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. The fear of failure becomes paralyzing. perfectionists may find themselves trapped in unrealistic expectations and self-doubt.

Let's take a look at these characters!

Andrew Neiman, portrayed by Miles Teller in the movie "Whiplash," is an ambitious young jazz drummer attending the prestigious Conservatory of Music. He's very passionate about becoming one of the greatest drummers in the world.

Riggan Thompson, portrayed by Michael Keaton in the movie "Birdman,"  is a washed-up actor famous for portraying a superhero as he tries to stage his own comeback by making a Broadway play.

There are a few similarities between these two characters. Both films feature complex characters with their ambitions and sacrifices they make in pursuit of their goals. And of course, they both have the obsession of perfection.

Achieving goals and seeking for validation

Neiman not only wants to be the greatest drummer in the world. He also wants to be "seen" by his mentor. He wants his mentor to understand his talent, his ambition and his hard work. So he can get a praise from his mentor.

Riggan wants the critics to understand that he is a great actor and a serious actor who can really act. He wants to be identified as an "actor" in an artistic way. And not some kind of superhero named "Birdman"

Sacrifices 

To be able to achieve his goals, Neiman must meet his abusive mentor, which leads him to push himself to extreme lengths. He should be able to do everything his mentor says. 

"This play cost me everything." Is a line from the movie Birdman that shows Riggan would do whatever it takes to impress the audiences and the critics. So he can get his name and career back. Even though he might lose all his money from making a Broadway play.

Insecurity 

Neiman's insecurity is getting worse because of the harsh and abusive teaching methods of his mentor, who constantly humiliates him. Neiman's fear of failure and desire for approval drive him to extreme lengths.

"Birdman" is the inner struggle and insecurity of Riggan Thompson. "Birdman" is also representing fear of irrelevance and failure. Throughout the film, Riggan battles with his sense of self-worth, seeking validation from others while talking to his own inner demons. Not only that, his co-star and daughter also bullied him.

Bad interaction between their families 

Neiman looks to his mentor as a father figure rather than his own dad. Because his dad disapproves of Neiman as a musician.

Riggan and his daughter aren't really close. Because Riggan himself was not really present when his daughter was still a child.

Both films feature complex characters with their ambitions and their sacrifices. "Whiplash" provides a tense portrayal of the pursuit of excellence in a highly competitive fields. While "Birdman" offers more surreal and exploration of artistic struggle.

[EY]