Director Darren Aronofsky (Requiem For A Dream) continues in his tradition of making disturbing yet hypnotic films with this story of the competitive world of professional ballet.
On paper it may not sound appealing but this is essentially a psychological horror which builds with fiery intensity.
Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) is delighted when she is chosen for the lead role in a production of Swan Lake in New York.
She is told she is perfect as the innocent, fragile White Swan but needs to get in touch with her dark side to also master the Black Swan.
Vincent Cassel is excellent as the seductive, manipulative teacher Thomas Leroy.
It is through his sorded demands, the claustrophobic pressure applied by Nina’s has-been mother and the blood thirsty competition that Nina begins to snap.
Through Aronofsky’s masterful direction, you see Nina’s slow and at first subtle descent into madness as her mind unravels.
Prepare to be haunted as the ‘Black Swan’ begins to take over Nina’s life both on and off the stage and in both the literal and metaphorical sense.
Portman, who was taught to ballet dance when she was four, is excellent as a troubled star who succinctly shows the human toll of ‘perfection’.
Obviously it’s not for everyone and you can’t help but feel sorry for anyone who walked into the cinema expecting a film just about the ballet.
But if you like your films with a real dark edge, some great performances and will leave an impression for days then this is for you.
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