Review: Black Swan.

 

Yes, Black Swan is everywhere.  And no, I can't let it go without saying something.

Yes, it is disturbing and downright terrifying at times, but I'm still thinking about it the next day.  

It's always tough to go into a movie with such high expectations.  I mean, I've been waiting for this movie since August!  That's borderline obsessive.  It seems to always be a let-down when you have such high expectations, however I have to say that I am surprisingly satisfied with my viewing.  There are things I would change, sure, but ultimately I think it was a freaky film wonderfully acted with beautiful costumes.  

First things first, Natalie Portman's performance was inspired.  I am aware of all the hoopla around her and an Oscar nod, but I'll tell you, there is a perfectly good reason for that:  she's incredible.  I'm indecisive when it comes to my opinion of Natalie usually.  Part of me can't stand the precocious beauty and I think she can be overrated, but then something like Black Swan happens and I change my mind.  I haven't been this drawn to a performance of hers since Closer.  (Mike Nichols can pull a performance out of even Julia Roberts, but that's for another time.)  She is at her best when portraying a girlish vulnerability and certainly excels at that here.  

Lest I forget to mention her dancing.  She manages (after ten months of five hour a day practice, no less) to pull it off beautifully and convincingly.  The same can't be said for her costar, Mila Kunis.  While Mila is perfectly cast for her role, dancing is obviously not a natural talent.  I'll overlook it because these two women play so well together.

I would be remiss if I didn't point out the costumes.  They were breathtaking.  It is not surprising that Rodarte did such a fantastic job and I'm always partial to a tutu, even if only a rehearsal one.

All in all, it is definitely worth seeing.  Especially if you love ballet.  Or freaky mind tricks.