Black Swan

Film/DVD

Natalie Portman won the best actress Oscar for this one, and it is clear to see why. She is superb. Haunting, fragile, tragic, beautiful and frankly f**ked up. When Portman is on form she really delivers.

Although I can understand what all the hype is about with Black Swan, I’m not going to be adding my name to any fan-club lists. It is powerful and poignant, but for me a little too ponsy.

This is a very watchable, sometimes gripping film that has been made with real class and panache. Particular attention has to be given to the cameramen who often follow Portman across the sprung floor as an additional dancer. Vincent Cassel is convincing as the menacing, seductive, little princess maker. Mila Kunis shines as the object of Portman’s obsession. This is a strikingly well choreographed movie and directed with style and grace by Darren Aronofsky.

Having a background in performance I have a fair few friends who make a living on stages across the globe. Although clearly heightened for Hollywood, Portman’s state of mind in Black Swan is one I found easy to believe from seeing friends ‘become’ the roles they play.  Her demonstration of a woman consumed with obsession and self-doubt is first class.

The caveman in me suspects that for ladies and luvvies Black Swan is a match made in heaven. For the fellas more inclined to Pele than plie there is a lesbian scene between Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman and more violence than you’d expect from a movie ‘about ballet’!

6/10