Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Sylvia

Sylvia is the singular voice of reason in Riggan's crazy, self-absorbed world. If Birdman is sitting with a pitchfork on one shoulder shouting entertainment aphorisms, Sylvia is whispering on the other shoulder in a shining halo.

She knows that family is what should be most important to Riggan, even if he can't see it through the mess he's made. Sylvia keeps reminding him that Sam is his daughter and needs his support after getting out of rehab; he doesn't have to be a good father, he just needs to be there for her.

In the end, Riggan realizes Sylvia was right. It's his family that he really cares about, but as he lies on his desk, telling Sylvia he loves her, he realizes it's all too late. He ignored Sylvia's counsel and wishes he would have taken her advice and been present in his own life.