Black Swan

Black Swan is the best movie I've seen in a really long time. G and I went to Winston-Salem to visit some friends and we decided to go see a movie on Saturday. The guys wanted to see True Grit, and even though I wasn't entirely opposed to seeing that movie, I really really wanted to see Black Swan. And I'm so incredibly happy I did.

Black Swan was exactly my type of movie. A thriller. A complete mind freak. Natalie Portman was brilliant in this movie and it was worth it just for seeing her amazing portrayal of Nina Sayers, a ballerina who wants nothing more than to be the lead for the company.

As a former Opera singer, I understand the world of this movie. Of course, in this movie, it's the world of dance, but they are both so incredibly similar. When I was a singer, I only scratched the surface of the gritty performance world. I went on a few auditions. I studied with some nasty mean teachers. I felt the pressure of the competition. Maybe that's why this movie affected me the way it did. I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I understand the pressure of a world like that - where time is against you and there is always someone younger and better waiting to take your place.

The story revolves around the New York City Ballet's production of Swan Lake. Veteran dancer Beth is getting old (they never say how old, but I'm thinking 30'something is too old for a ballerina) and the director of the ballet is looking for a new face. All of the dancers want a chance, but nervous Nina is desperate for a chance. The director has full confidence that Nina can dance the part of the vulnerable and beautiful White Swan. It's the free and passionate evil twin, the Black Swan, that he's worried she can't quite pull off. He gives her a shot, though, and as Nina deals with the pressures of all eyes on her, she slowly descends into madness as she tries to get in touch with her darker side.

Even though there are important relationships to explore in this movie - like that of dancer/director, veteran dancer/new star - it's the relationship between the carefree Lily and Nina that takes center stage. Nina wishes she could be more like Lily. That she could let go and just dance with abandon. Lily is sexual and ambitious while Nina is reserved and controlled. As Nina begins to find freedom, she worries that Lily is somehow after her. It's a brilliant spiral into darkness. I LOVED this movie! If I could describe it in one word, I would say INTENSE. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who likes dark movies.

I might have to go see it again...