“The Judge” starring Robert Downey Jr., and Robert Duvall is playing Nov. 19, 20 followed by Michael Keaton in “Birdman” this week at The Harbor Theatre.

Tue, 11/18/2014 - 11:30am

Jason Sheckley

Michael Keaton and Edward Norton in a scene from the black comedy, “Birdman” or “The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance” starting Friday at The Harbor Theatre. Courtesy of Jason Sheckley

In “The Judge,” a big city lawyer (Robert Downey Jr.) returns to his childhood home where his estranged father, the town’s judge (Robert Duvall), is suspected of murder. He sets out to discover the truth and along the way reconnects with the family he walked away from years before. “The Judge,” rated R, plays at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 and Thursday, Nov. 20.

Michael Keaton stars in “Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” starting Friday. Co-written, produced, and directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, the film also features Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton, Andrea Riseborough, Amy Ryan, Emma Stone and Naomi Watts.

“Birdman” is a black comedy that tells the story of a former movie superhero, Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), who is producing an ambitious Broadway production that he hopes will breathe new life into his stagnant career. It's risky, but he hopes his creative gamble will prove that he's a real artist and not just a washed-up movie star. As opening night approaches, a cast mate is injured, forcing Riggan to hire an actor (Edward Norton) who is guaranteed to shake things up.

Reviewing for the McClatchy-Tribune News Service, Roger Moore writes, “Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance),” is the last caped superhero movie you will ever need to see. Serious and silly, self-aware and ironic, it’s the movie that questions stardom, fame and celebrity, built around a role Michael Keaton had to become a has-been to play.”

“Birdman” (rated R) plays at 7 p.m. on: Friday, Nov. 21, Saturday, Nov. 22, Wednesday, Nov. 26 and Thursday, Nov. 27. Two shows on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 3 and 7 p.m.

Theatre memberships and pre-show screen ads help the theatre to stay open offseason. The theatre is also available for parties, special events and private screenings. Further information is available in the lobby, or at www.harbortheatre.net.

Visit the theatre on Facebook, or call the 24-hour movie phone: 207-633-0438. The Harbor Theatre is located at 185 Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor, across from Hannaford's market.