Black Swan

status: 2010; in select theaters
rating: * * * * (4 out of 5 stars)

Let me start by saying, only Darren Aronofsky could make me interested in a movie about ballet. This film is nothing short of fantastic. This doesn't come as a surprise to this film-goer in the least. Black Swan stars Natalie Portman as a ballet dancer with dreams of being a star, Vincent Cassel as her coach and Mila Kunis as a fellow dancer.

The story follows Nina (Portman) in her struggle to be the best ballet dancer. She gets cast as the "Swan Queen" in a new rendition of Swan Lake. This proves to be very taxing both mentally and physically. Nina starts seeing a rash on her body, visions of a darker self, cuts on her fingers, what appear to be feathers, etc... Her inner turmoil to strive for perfection is tearing her apart. This coupled with a very touchy-feely coach (Cassel) and a potential threat to her role (Kunis), makes things all the more difficult.

Everyone's performance were incredibly believable and emotional stirring. Aronofsky's direction and the film's cinematography couldn't have been better. He has not lost his touch and this is a must see for any fan of his work.