In an entertainment industry filled with terrible thrillers directed by M Night and movies that entirely focus on the jumpiness to put you on edge Black Swan provides a guiding light for all in this forlorn thriller genre. Focusing on a young up and coming ballerina, Nina Sayers (portrayed by the always beautiful Natalie Portman), who is striving for prominence in her dance studio, especially in the new production of Swan Lake where the lead needs to portray the innocent white swan but also the seductive, evil black swan. Nina ends up the first choice by the Director, Thomas (played perfectly by Vincent Cassel), who reiterates her perfection in the innocent white swan but lack of ability to portray the seductive black swan. Thomas points to newcomer Lily (Mila Kunis) and the way she carries herself on the dance floor as inspiration for Nina. As Nina battles with her attempt to fit into the darker role of the black swan a quirky relationship is formed with her competition, Lily. Nina continues throughout battling to keep the transformation as vocation as possible, keeping it from seeping into and destroying her personal life.
Going into Black Swan I had heard a lot of hype surrounding it (which is partially why I justified spending over $5 on it) and the hype was without a doubt backed 100%. There was not a weak link in the cast’s chain as everyone performed well and played their part to a T involving the viewer’s emotions and opinions throughout their performance. Even though I found Black Swan slightly predictable I was very impressed with how advancements were carried out and absolutely adored the score, which utilized slight alterations to the already flawless Tchaikovsky masterpiece intertwining it with the movie perfectly. But the best part maybe the undertones the movie provides allowing for discussion as well entertainment (something every good movie should contain). To top it all off the cinematography and visual effects of this movie really benefit the thriller aspect, making it not just a jump fest (although there were moments). Bringing back the psych part to the psychological thriller, culminating thoughts and ideas racing through your mind as the plot expands and reveals more. Black Swan didn’t disappoint me and I don’t think it will disappoint many others either, proving a trip to the theaters will not be in vein.
Overall Rating: 9 out of 10
