Black Swan (2010)

Black Swan is a terrifying descent into madness from director Darren Aronofsky. Moody and atmospheric, the film takes the viewer on a delusional trip where you are never really sure who or which of your senses to trust. Every element of this film works beautifully to create mirage of fear and passion.

Smart casting takes the film to another level. Natalie Portman is exquisite at the fragile dancer Sayers. The evolution from virginal ballerina to hardened prima donna is brilliant. Portman plays her masterfully. Her character is so multi-faceted, so physically and emotionally obsessed. Portman deserves an Oscar. As her obsession grows, the viewer is equally repulsed and intrigued. Barbara Hershey as Sayers mom is unsettling in every sense of the word—another beautiful turn. Mila Kunis role as new rival ballerina Lily is parlayed into a thrilling paradox. Vincent Cassel is the company director whose brilliance is only outshined by his lust for his dancers.

There is an unsettling intensity herein thanks to Aronofsky. His direction is calculated for optimum effect. His ability to capture the erosion of the psyche is amazing. Every frame is calculated for optimum effect. The film oozes with an eerie and unsettling fragility that no words can do justice. The score is vibrates your soul.  In retrospect, this film could have been silent in nature and just as effective.

As I see it, one word can describe Black Swan. Intensity—of which you have never experienced. Black Swan is difficult to watch, but even more difficult to turn away from.