When I first saw ‘Black Swan’ noted, for some reason (it’s early) I thought of the terrific book by David Mitchell Black Swan Green, and was getting pumped that there was a film adaptation. Finding out it wasn’t was a disappointment until I saw the term supernatural ballerina (at Collider). You throw that in with the always unique Aronofsky and the always easy on eyes Natalie Portman, and my interest was piqued again.
First, it’s an Aronofsky film. The guy certainly has something (just being engaged to Rachel Weisz proves that), all you have to do is look at some of his films to tell: Pi, The Wrestler, The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream. Black Swan, looks to be yet another project by the director/producer/writer that simple synopsis cannot properly detail. It’s described as:
…centers on a veteran ballerina (Portman) who finds herself locked in a competitive situation with a rival dancer, with the stakes and twists increasing as the dancers approach a big performance. But it’s unclear whether the rival is a supernatural apparition or if the protagonist is simply having delusions.
When I think of Aronofsky, I know exactly why I dig his stuff, because it seems like his bookshelf would integrate with my own.
Portman seems to bring that commercial face to the obvious quality and sensibility than an Aronofsky has proven to bring, and I’m now very interested in future casting choices for the supporting roles, when this movie finds a studio home. I just watched Benjamin Button, so I have this superficial comparison in my mind with Cate Blanchett’ per-usual excellent performance.
While you wait though, go back to my original thought and go read the completely unrelated Black Swan Green–great book.
