Black Swan

Black Swan is a different movie about Nina, a ballet dancer, and her decent into madness because of the stress of her role in a production of Swan Lake. First, this movie was advertised as a horror movie, and I think that deterred a lot of people from seeing it. I want to clear the air and tell those people that are wary: it is not a horror movie. Yes, there is suspense, and it has graphic scenes, but it does not fit into the typical 'horror' stigma. The film is beautifully acted by the main characters. Natalie Portman does a great job with the vulnerability of Nina. What I think makes her part so awesome is that she is totally unassuming and even becomes scared of her own mind and actions. Mila Kunis also has a fantastic turn as the sultry Lily. Who ever knew she could really act? It sure surprised me. But she is wonderful in this movie, and she definitely got snubbed on the Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actress. In my opinion, she should have at least been nominated. Another notable character who hasn't gotten any recognition is Barbara Hershey as Nina's mom. There is something off about her the entire movie that keeps you guessing at her motives, and also if her mind is really all there. I think that Nina's mom creates a whole other side to the story that isn't really explored in the film. The dynamic between the two of them is strange and intense, and it definitely added mystery and interest to the movie.
The way the movie was done was also really great. First of all, the psychological elements were awesome. I loved that you could never tell what was real and what wasn't, and that made it feel like you were losing your mind too. Like we were right there with Nina. This was also really helped by the visual effects. I thought they were done very tastefully and really added to the movie's message. I will forever have Natalie Portman's legs breaking backwards when she is having her biggest episode etched into my mind. And also during the performance as the black swan, you could see her skin crawling with the evil until finally it manifests itself into beautiful wings. Also, one thing I really liked was the ending. It wasn't just a general ending with falling action after the climax. The ending left you just as exhilarated as the rest of the movie and you left with adrenaline still pumping. I can't actually think of any other movies that do this. This movie is just another great one this year.