One of the most anticipated films of last year, it follows the beautifully tortuous world of one ballet dancer as she tries to maintain her balance in one of the most pressurized and gruelling industries in the world.
Director Darren Aronofsky is one of the most interesting directors currently on the scene. Having watched his stunning movie The Wrestler (2008) and fallen in love with everything about it, my expectations were extremely high for this follow up.
Natalie Portman plays the talented ballet dancer Nina Sayers, who is on the verge of becoming the newest star in her company’s production of Swan Lake. However, Nina experiences extreme amounts of criticism and pressure from all angles. First of all, her mother who seems to hold an undisguised grudge against her daughter, after she had to give up her career as a dancer to raise Nina. Secondly, the company director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) who constantly harangues Nina for not portraying the black swan perfectly, and who also pushes Nina both professionally and personally. And thirdly, the rest of the company: girls who eagerly compete for the leading role, and who will do anything for success.
However, as the story progresses it becomes clear that not all is what it seems. Nina’s life becomes a confusing regiment of ballet drills, disturbing dreams, and a fellow dancer called Lily (Mila Kunis) who seems determined to scheme against her. The paranoia and hallucinations become more extreme with every development, as the finale approaches.
An expertly made film, one that is uncompromising in its vision and bold in its direction. Aronofsky is unrelenting with his moments of toe-curling horror which contrast well with the film’s cultured context. Portman is astounding in her role, a performance well deserved of its accolades. And both Cassel and Kunis provide excellent support throughout, tackling some extremely difficult scenes with artistic merit.
Not a film for anyone expecting a cheery film about ballet dancing, this is a film delving deep into a troubled mind and a world of anguish. However, if you appreciate filmmaking, directorial brilliance, and amazing performances it is definitely worth a watch.
No 2 on the “List” - COMPLETED
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