Dramatically Thrilling and Brilliant

Rating: 9/10 (5 January 2016)

Black Swan is as much as an experience as the play that was interpreted within the film. From the very beginning, the lighting was one of the strongest I've seen from a film, it being a large supporter of the film's overall tone. In fact, each element of the movie seems be reincorporated to support the tone; as it's soundtrack drives the scenes, and it's use of dance is used in contrast of the very character's mental standing.
The viewing of the mental standing of the main character, Nina, is shown in moderation. Giving and showing more and more throughout the film, within it's symbolism and character contrast. All until the final act of the movie, where all is revealed. This being a masterful display and character study of one's own madness. In only one instance, I do feel as if practicality was sparred for the sake of tone, but it didn't take away from the film's overall quality (the subway scene). In some instances, the movie is brilliant and thrilling by balancing emotional scenes in the surreal, while the directing and acting are constantly great throughout. Notably taking inspiration of the original play itself, the film has one of the greatest final acts I've ever seen. 9/10