I think psycho-sexual thriller is the perfect way to describe this film. Emphasis on sexual, just fyi for those going to see this with their parents. Aronofsky is always good for a mind f*^# , and if you don't understand then rent Requiem For a Dream. If I ever feel that my psyche is in a strong enough place to re-watch that movie then maybe I'll write about it, but that's an IF.
Ok, Black Swan.....This is about a very innocent and sheltered ballerina who is cast as the swan queen in Swan Lake, and her struggle with finding the dark side of herself to become the black swan.
Let's talk Natalie Portman. I am already a fan, but I want to see her nominated for another Academy Award and win it. (I am not a fan of Closer, but that's a whole nother tangent.) She is PHENOMENAL in this movie. Portman, an already a petite girl, lost nearly 20 pounds while going through ballet training for this roll, and came out totally convincing. Not to mention she now has a fiancee and wil' bun in the oven with one of the ballet choreographers. :) Nice.
Mila Kunis also should not be reduced down to her That 70's Show role, she has some real acting power behind her, and I don't mean Macaulay Culkin. (They broke up anyways.)
What her exact role is in this movie is up to us, was she another ballerina, or a figment of Portman's imagination? I think she was real, and I think upon my re-watch of the DVD I will still feel the same way. Meaning, while it's branded a psycho-sexual thriller, Portman's character suffered enough psychosis without needing to create an imaginary frenemy.
What really did peak my interest in this film was how accurately it portrayed the ballet community.From all that I have heard and read, from cast members and ballerinas alike, it was for the most part a spot on portrayal. As a writer if I had learned about the brashness of the ballet companies, then I too would have realized that groundwork had already been laid for a thriller. Not to mention Swan Lake is the most well known ballet and love story that will wear the tests of time. Brilliant.
Oscar nom worthy film, yes. One of my favs of the year, no.
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