Black Swan - 9 stars out of 10

Black Swan - 9 stars out of 10

It has been a long time since I experienced a film that is completely unique. "Black Swan" is a psychological thriller that will have you covering your mouth in shock one moment and fiercely gripping the arm rest the next. Natalie Portman delivers her finest performance ever, blurring the line between imagination and reality while transitioning between her two personalities with instantaneous bipolarity. Her overall transition throughout the movie is impressive, but the true genius shows in the momentary shifts along the way. I was also amazed by her pointe. I expected an amazing performance by Portman, but Mila Kunis absolutely caught me by surprise. Who knew that this girl could act beyond comedic roles? She is the perfect X-factor for Nina, particularly in THE scene that will establish itself as one of the most memorable naughty scenes in cinema. Both of these ladies deserved an Oscar nod in my opinion. Although I love her, Winona Ryder is not even worth mentioning in conjunction with this film. Hershey and Cassel also thrive in their roles. The acting is so good that you hardly realize that they are acting, making it hard to remember to acknowledge the skill possessed by each actor. The writing is perfect, as the audience is just as unaware of reality vs. dillusion as the leading lady. This story twists in so many directions, you will never know what to expect next. The writers also provided the perfect ending, leaving every audience member sitting in the theater during the closing credits, allowing the events from the screen to set in before leaving. Above all else, the cinematography brings this film to life, putting the audience on-stage with the ballerinas and allowing us to move with them. These dance scenes, as well as the clever use of cinematography as Portman starts to see her changed self in mirrors (and others), truly builds the momentum of the film from start to finish. Black Swan is the type of film that I love to own on DVD as it is totally unique from any other film experience.