Derivative disappointment but that may be because I don't like chick flicks.

Rating: 5/10 (27 February 2011)

Bizarre special effects (though, technically, well done), audio that flags you when to expect something really weird on-screen, and an altered perception of reality by the main character. Reminded me of the director's earlier "Pi".
The music was nice as were the ballet sequences...but I never really connected with this film more than superficially. I found myself wanting to tell Portman's character to "suck it up". This is because I like to solve problems rather than wallowing in them and talking about "feelings". What's the old adage? Oh yeah; "Insanity is repeating the same thing expecting different results."
All that was lacking was for (Stephen King's) Carrie to come out on stage and burn down Lincoln Center.