Join the Washington DC Sunday Night Film Club this Sunday, Dec 5th at 4:15 for Black Swan at the Landmark E Street Cinema . Look for Elizabeth wearing a black sweater in the theatre lobby about 15 minutes before the film. As always, after the film we will descend on a local establishment for dinner/drinks/discussion.
A psychological thriller set in the world of New York City ballet, Black Swan follows the story of Nina (Natalie Portman), a ballerina whose life, like all those in her profession, is completely consumed with dance. Artistic director Thomas (Vincent Cassel, Mesrine) seems ready to cast her in the lead for his new production of Swan Lake, but she has competition: a new dancer, Lily (Mila Kunis), impresses him as well. Thomas’ concept requires one dancer to play both the White Swan, with innocence and grace, and the Black Swan, who represents guile and sensuality. Nina fits the White Swan role perfectly but Lily is the personification of the Black Swan. As the two young dancers expand their rivalry into a twisted friendship, Nina begins to get more in touch with her dark side with a recklessness that threatens to destroy her. Co-starring Barbara Hershey as Nina’s retired ballerina mother Erica, who zealously supports her daughter’s professional ambition. Directed by visionary filmmaker Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler, The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream, Pi).