"Black Swan" is a dark and dramatic near perfect masterpiece from director Darren Aronofsky.

Rating: 9/10 (19 October 2010)

"Black Swan" tells the story of a dedicated ballerina named Nina (played by Natalie Portman) who life revolves around her becoming New York City's number one ballet dancer. Obsessed with being the best, Nina is offered the lead role in Thomas Leroy's (Vincent Cassel) version of Swan Lake. This role is set to be one of the hardest for Nina as she has to play two roles within one character. The White Swan, which, requires innocence and grace has been mastered by Nina. The Black Swan, however, is the role that is giving her grief. You see the Black Swan is nothing like Nina and so begins her struggle to obtain greatness by learning how to enter into this darker character. It's only a matter of time before Lily (Mila Kunis) arrives who proves she has what it takes to play the infamous Black Swan. Its now up to Nina to learn from Lily how to unleash her dark side within the role or forever live life as a failure in the ballet world.
What the hell was that? Was all I could say when the credits began to roll at the end of "Black Swan." One thing I knew for sure was that it was a dark and brilliant piece of cinema. Sure, I was uncertain by what I just witnessed on screen for the past two hours but that was sort of the point. This movie was made to leave its audience feeling uneasy and it does it well. This movie ends on a note that lets you know the movie is over and doesn't leave the audience hanging. The film however, leaves you wanting to discuss it right away once it ends."Black Swan" is a dark and psychological piece of cinema and truly makes you think throughout the entire film. While the subject matter of ballet may not intrigue many, it's how the film plays out that truly makes it worth wild. Its a dark and deep piece of cinema, filled with a few chills and thrills along the way. You will definitively leave the theater with plenty to say after viewing the film. You will probably begin to argue with others about what exactly the outcome of the film was as it was very open to interpretation.
Natalie Portman is absolutely terrific in this film. I am so used to her playing characters, where she is so independent and strong willed. As Nina, Portman plays a scared character who is afraid to reach outside her comfort zone. She is straight laced and as innocent as they come. She is obsessed and truly dedicated with all things dance. This is a truly haunting performance by Portman, one that deserves an award..Portman's character is not likable in the film as she is a very dark and unlikable character. Her personality is obsolete in most of the film. This is one of those roles that truly show off a good actress from a bad one. Portman pulled it off with such ease. As for the other supporting roles, they were great as well. Kunis in particular played a role unlike anything she has played before. A wild sex cat so to speak with ties to all things seedy. She was perfect for the role and truly offset the timid and innocent character that Nina was. Vincent Cassel, was perfect as the hard ass ballet teacher who truly used and abused his students. He was truly incredible. Winona Ryder was great as well in her minor role. She was a very dark character as well who truly showed how living a life as the "Black Swan" was a truly horrific lifestyle to live. She was surprisingly raw and real in this film.
I haven't seen much of Darren Aronofsky work and I know as a film lover and critic that is a shame on my behalf. I have had "The Wrestler" on Blu Ray since the day it was released but never watched it. I have however, watched his other critically acclaimed film, "Requiem for a Dream" which is a dark and depressing piece of cinema. That movie WILL make you depressed if you have not seen it. Its a story of life and the battles people go through. Its not a happy film but a well crafted cinematic masterpiece. With that being said, "Black Swan" is probably Aronofsky's new masterpiece. Its well shot, it's interesting, its dark, its haunting, it's deep, its creepy, and most importantly it makes you think. Its a film that isn't confusing but rather challenges you (the audience member) to come up with your own conclusion. You will hear a lot about this film in the next few months and I am sure most of it will be positive. Aronofsky is a brilliant filmmaker and that goes without saying. His vision as a filmmaker is truly one of the kind even if he is too humble to ever admit that.
When Oscar season rolls around come January, you will be certain to see "Black Swan" up there with "Social Network" as one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year. It will be nominated in several categories including Best Picture, Director, and Best Actress. Portman shines in the film and delivers a haunting and one of a kind performance. Aronofsky makes a film that truly leaves an audience talking and wanting more when it ends. It is a near perfect masterpiece hands down and may not be for everyone but lovers of film will truly appreciate the brilliant piece of film making "Black Swan" is.
MovieManMenzel's final rating for "Black Swan" is a solid 9 out of 10. One of the darkest and well acted films of the year!