'Black Swan' - Obsession Takes Control

Rating: 9/10 (3 January 2011)

Though it is no masterpiece like Requiem For A Dream in my opinion, Aronofsky has made another good (but not excellent) movie in Black Swan. As I sat next to my buddy, he turned to me and asked, are we in a ballet or something? I couldn't help but laugh as I some would agree with that statement, though I was a little more open minded than my movie counterpart. There was scenes in the film that blew you away (and even made you feel a little uncomfortable), then there were scenes were you would have you saying enough ballet already, when is this scene going to pick up? Regardless of the films ups and downs, it managed to keep you interested for the majority of the film, which is what a good and director film does. There is little reason to believe that Black Swan won't be nominated for Best Picture at this year's Oscars, but in my opinion has a slim chance of actually winning, especially with this year's competition. Now, let's get something straight, I'm not here to rip this film to pieces, I'm just stating that my personal opinion that the film was a little different the most critics. With that being said, it is still a great piece of film making, with great directing, pace, and of course outstanding performances (especially from Natalie Portman).
The cast in this movie was nothing short of spectacular. From Natalie Portman all the way down to Wynona Ryder, the acting in this film was extremely well done. Well let's start with the male lead in this role, played by French actor Vincent Cassell (Eastern Promises). Cassell was outstanding as the egotistical, seductive yet brilliant ballet teacher, displaying the characters strong, confident and desirable actions perfectly. The actor was able to make you hate him at times, but also respect him as well depending on the different scenes in the film. Mila Kunis, who is known for more comical roles, didn't disappoint playing Lily (or the Black Swan). Her ability to play nice and gentle, while also competitive and ruthless, really allowed for great character development with the other lead in the film, The Swan Queen herself, Natalie Portman. For those of you who thought Natalie could only play the sweet and gentle type, go out and see Black Swan because in this film she juggles her characters emotions perfectly. At first the actress plays the sweet and gentle Nina Seyers we are all use too, but quickly gets more in touch with her dark side, changing into an obsessed and evil girl immersed in her role as the Swan Queen (which eventually destroys her). The actress does a fantastic job toying with audiences emotions, playing innocent and graceful (as the White Swan) while also being guile and sensuality .The buzz has been roaring for her to receive the Academy Award for best actress, and I can now see why. Her performance was perfect, warranting her an Oscar nomination, and most likely a win.
Though the movie could be perceived as horror, i'd like to think of it as more of a dramatic thriller. Aronofsky plays with your emotions so well, sometimes making you sad, while at other times absolutely frightened. His similar directing style to The Wrestler was present throughout this film. His use of playing to the actors back with his camera was done well once again, allowing for the scene to feel more real and suspenseful feel for the audience. His dark style of directing allowed for the film to give off that uneasiness feeling you experience with most thrillers. Even though some would think of this film as a ballet concert, Aronofsky does an excellent job of deflecting that focus with plot twists, lustful/thrilling scenes, and brilliant acting from his talented cast.
Black Swan is a movie highlighted by obsession, jealousy, envy, sex and pure lust. It is a film that plays with your emotions, taking you on a roller coaster ride of gentle and moving scenes, to more disturbing and uneasy ones. It is a film that highlights how obsession and immersion of a particular role can lead to the downfall and life of a person who was once so gentle. It makes you think, confused, and intrigued at the same time, with great directing and performances alike. Although critics are raving about this film, I'm going to score it as an A- simply because it is not a movie that everyone will like, and doesn't muster up to Aronofsky's masterpiece, Requiem For A Dream. I will go ahead and say that this film is definitely worth seeing, and will keep you entertained for the majority of the film. For those of you who think they are going to watch a ballet recital, don't, as Aronofsky does an incredible job of shifting the focus of ballet into spooky, thrilling and captivating scenes. Get to a theater near you and check out Black Swan!