Solid but predictable expressionistic ballet thriller

Rating: 7/10 (27 February 2011)

I must say I am not convinced this movie has really earned such an outstanding rating. It is not more than a solid thriller. Here are my reasons:
An outstanding movie must have something unique and original about it - either the plot or the way of execution or the message behind it. This movie has none of the above. The subject (plot) is familiar and seen many times before: obsession and exaggerated ambition combined with a weak personality lead to a tragic outcome. In this version the setting of the movie is embedded in the world of ballet. I liked the ballet scenes and I was especially impressed by the expressionistic dynamics of the beginning (the dream sequence) and the end (the metamorphosis into the black swan). The rest was not more than a thriller with a predictable outcome (no twist, no surprises) smoothly executed and with good acting (as are all American movies).
But...the movie didn't move me. It didn't linger for a long time in my mind...except for Natalie Portman's performance -it was impressive how she turned into a ballet dancer.