Alexander Dinelaris

Alexander Dinelaris Jr. is an American screenwriter, playwright, and producer best known for his Academy Award–winning work on the film Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014). Born in New York City, Dinelaris began his career in theatre, developing a reputation for creating emotionally charged, character-driven plays that often explore themes of identity, ambition, and the human condition.

In the theatre world, he has written plays such as Still Life, The Chaos Theories, and Red Dog Howls, the latter of which received critical acclaim for its exploration of the Armenian genocide. His stage work often combines lyrical dialogue with deeply personal storytelling, earning him a loyal following among off-Broadway audiences.

Dinelaris achieved international recognition when he co-wrote Birdman with Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Nicolás Giacobone, and Armando Bó. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, and was praised for its innovative structure, sharp dialogue, and exploration of art, ego, and reinvention.

In addition to his film and stage work, Dinelaris wrote the book for the Broadway musical On Your Feet! (2015), based on the lives and music of Gloria and Emilio Estefan. He is also the founder of Lexicon, a New York–based production company developing film, theatre, and television projects.

Through his diverse body of work, Alexander Dinelaris has established himself as a versatile storyteller who bridges the worlds of theatre and cinema, creating compelling narratives that resonate across mediums.