With the release of 'Black Swan,' Darren Aronofsky ('Requiem For A Dream', 'The Wrestler') has created a masterpiece in modern cinema that is both beautiful and terrifying. In what is undoubtedly the performance of her career thus far, Natalie Portman stars as Nina Sayers, a ballerina who, like all those in her profession, lives a life consumed by her drive to dance. When she learns that her company's new production will be of 'Swan Lake', she is determined to secure the lead role and sets out to impress artistic director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel). He finds Nina's naivety and innocence alluring, and the perfect embodiment of the white swan role, but believes she lacks the sensuality and guile required for that of the black swan. The arrival of new dancer Lily (Mila Kunis) raises caution for Nina, as she sees how easily the black swan qualities come to her. Thomas goes so far as to appoint Lily as Nina's understudy. Determined to showcase her inner black swan, Nina unwillingly befriends Lily and a dark, seductive relationship develops....or does it? The storyline of 'Swan Lake' is cleverly mirrored in the relationship between Nina and Lily, and the movie slowly grows chaotic as Nina loses her grip on reality while she strides towards perfection, all for the sake of art. Portman has never been better, and her tiny frame indeed showcases her dedication to the role. Cassel is brilliant. Kunis, better known for her comedic roles, is breathtakingly beautiful and truly shines. Special mention should go to Barbara Hershey as Portman's overbearing mother, and a terrifying Winona Ryder as a retired dancer. Bold, erotic, and heartbreaking, 'Black Swan' is impossible to turn away from and a true showcase of filmmaking at its finest.

Rated [MA]