Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan is an examination of obsession. The obsession is produced by Nina’s striving for beauty, acceptance, and most of all perfection. It explores the dichotomy involved in both loving and hating oneself.
Though the themes in this movie may be formulaic and familiar, the arena in which it takes place, as well as the circumstance of each of these characters is what makes the film unique enough to stand on its own feet. Leroy, the dance instructor, announces to his company in the beginning that he wants to open with “Swan Lake”, which, as he acknowledges, has been done to death – but not like this.
The portrayal of the dancing world with all of its gossip and back biting was very realistic as was the competitive edge and deep fear of failure that was always present. The overbearing mother, who was a master manipulator and control freak, added another level of dread and tenseness to the atmosphere. I immediately felt uneasy every time she was in the scene.
As Nina (Natalie Portman) begins to lose her mind, it becomes more difficult for the viewer to tell what is real and what isn’t. This is the point at which the film starts blurring the lines between psychological thriller and horror. Aronofsky knows how to put focus on the key moments and make them more disturbing than normal. The film can make one feel uncomfortable at times, making viewers freaked out and tense. Lily, perfectly played by Mila Kunis, is another effective character. She shows to be no stranger to the temptress role and her seductive eyes and sly smile steal the show when she’s on camera. I can see exactly why Nina would be intimidated by her.
A lot of symbols and metaphors were use in this film, especially the use of color. Like the white and pink color represent the innocence of “white swan” Nina, and the dark grey color represents the underlying “black swan’ Nina from madness. This kind of symbolization enables the film to create its themes effectively.
The Official Blog of WRTG 3007, Summer 2012 
It is interesting how much color is used to symbolize Natalie’s character throughout the film. Black and White is almost in every scene, whether it be on the outfits or subtly in the background. It is clear the white represents the White Swan, and Nina’s innocence, while the Black, The Black Swan and Nina’s transformation into a woman filled with darkness. However, I enjoyed the scenes when both colors were included because it shows how Nina is conflicted.
I also agree that Natalie and Mila portrayed their characters perfectly. Natalie holds so much nervousness as Nina where as Mila appears to be a natural hellion. I don’t think the film would be as successful without the use of these two actors.
I like how you said that whenever the mom came into the scene you became uncomfortable. I couldn’t agree more, she thoroughly creeped me out. Their relationship seemed awkward and her mom certainly played the role of over controlling and demanding. However, at the end of the movie, it seemed like the mother knew that Nina was going to die, likely by her own hand. She tried to prevent her from going to the last performance and had put socks on her hands to prevent the scratching. This part made me think about their history. Maybe Nina had always been neurotic and borderline schizophrenic. Perhaps her controlling ways had kept Nina from killing herself previously. Or she knew how Nina could push herself too far and the performance would end badly. Either way, the relationship still made me uncomfortable, yet it was very interesting to include in this movie.
Yes, the use of colors intensified the transformation for the viewer. I’m remembering now that the cake her mother bought her was pink. Did you notice the dance instructor was also in black often? Although, he was sometimes in gray, and I wonder if that meant he encompassed both the dark and light personality traits. Te sounds effects of the black feathers growing out of her skin freaked me out! I agree, not sure if the film would have been as effective without the quality make-up, costumes, sound and visual effects.