Review of Black Swan
Black Swan will make you cringe in the cushy movie theater seat and leave your mind reckless with thoughts about its plot for days on end.
Starring as “The Swan Queen” in her ballet company’s production of “Swan Lake”, Nina Sayers, portrayed by Natalie Portman, struggles with her goody-two-shoes much more “white swan” self to become the “black swan”. A new ballerina joins the company, Lilly, portrayed by Mila Kunis who stars as Nina’s rival and as the personification of the “black swan”. The two have a twisted relationship which leads Nina into her immersion as the “black swan”.
Nina, 28, lives at home with her psycho, ex ballerina mom who clearly believes that her daughter is still a little girl who needs to be tucked in every night. Her mom’s psychotic issues contribute to Nina’s unstableness and her uptight attitude.
Nina begins to crack during the movie and has almost schitzophrenic-like hallucinations, portraying the stress of the ballet industry.
Portman’s acting is incredible, especially compared to her laughably helpless cries of “Annie! Annie!” as Padme in 2005’s Star Wars epic “Revenge of the Sith”. Her acting is so amazing, I forgot it was Natalie Portman was acting as Nina Sayers, I became emotionally attached to the character.
But Portman has surprised before with 2006’s “V for Vendetta”, the real acting shock of the film is Mila Kunis, who is most famous for her portrayal of Jackie Burkhart on the TV comedy series “That 70’s Show”. Kunis brilliantly portrays her part as Lilly with some of the best and most memorable scenes in the film. It is no surprise that she and Portman both grabbed Golden Globe nominations for best supporting actress and best actress in a drama, respectively.
Director Darren Aronofsky’s style greatly adds to the intensity, emotion and beauty of the film which is no surprise due to his 2009 Oscar contender, “The Wrestler”.
The movie is just what it says it is, a psychological thriller; but it is a well done one. Nina’s hallucinations leave you cringing in pain and in anticipation to find out if the hallucination is reality or not.
Nina goes through an almost anti-hero’s journey that makes you feel connected with her and makes you want to help her in her fight to become the “black swan” which ultimately is her worst enemy.
Theories about the movie will evolve in your head for weeks on end, and you’ll want to see it again. Black Swan horrifies while still keeping your eyes glued to the screen.
