Black Swan

Black Swan

Year: 2010

Runtime: 108

Language: English

Director: Darren Aronofsky

DramaThriller

In this psychological thriller, Natalie Portman plays Nina, a fiercely dedicated ballerina whose obsessive passion for dance consumes her every waking moment. When a new production of "Swan Lake" demands a dual role, Nina's perfectionism is tested by the arrival of Lily (Mila Kunis), who embodies the dark and alluring Black Swan. As their rivalry unfolds, Nina's grip on reality begins to slip, revealing a dark side that threatens to destroy her very existence.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Black Swan yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Black Swan (2010)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Black Swan (2010). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

The movie takes place in contemporary times, during a period where the ballet world is evolving, yet still rooted in tradition. This era highlights themes of youth versus age as Nina faces the looming presence of competition and the struggles of an industry that can be unforgiving.

Location

New York City

The film is set primarily in New York City, known for its vibrant arts scene. It is a hub for aspiring dancers and well-established ballet companies, emphasizing the competitive nature of the performing arts. The city's energy reflects the intense pressures Nina faces in her pursuit of perfection.

🏙️ City 🎭 Dance 🎻 Arts

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Main Characters – Black Swan (2010)
Meet the key characters of Black Swan (2010), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Nina Sayers

Nina is a young, dedicated ballerina whose desire for perfection drives her to extremes. She exhibits an intense focus on her art but struggles with self-doubt and psychological instability. Her journey reflects the pressure of balancing ambition with mental health.

👩‍🎤 Lead 🩰 Ballerina 💔 Obsessive

Thomas Leroy

Thomas is the ambitious director of the ballet company, recognized for pushing his dancers to their limits. His provocative methods and dual affections for Nina and Lily complicate the dynamics of their relationships, serving as both mentor and manipulator.

🎭 Director 🔥 Ambitious 🕵️‍♂️ Manipulative

Lily

Lily is the new dancer who embodies the freedom and sensuality of the Black Swan. She serves as a foil to Nina, prompting feelings of jealousy and inadequacy. Her carefree nature contrasts sharply with Nina's rigid discipline, intensifying their rivalry.

💃 Rival ☀️ Free-Spirited 💔 Jealousy

Beth

Beth is the aging lead dancer facing the harsh realities of her career in ballet. Her emotional collapse embodies the industry's unforgiving nature, serving as a cautionary tale for Nina as she grapples with fear of obsolescence.

🌟 Veteran 😢 Tragic 💔 Former Star

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Major Themes – Black Swan (2010)
Explore the central themes of Black Swan (2010), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🦢 Duality

The theme of duality resonates throughout 'Black Swan,' as represented by the contrasting roles of the White Swan and the Black Swan. Nina's struggle to embody both facets of her character reflects her internal battle for identity and acceptance. This duality extends to her relationship with Lily, manifesting both camaraderie and jealousy.

💔 Obsession

Obsession is a central theme as Nina becomes consumed by her quest for perfection. This driving force leads her to destructive actions and spirals into madness. Her fixation on the Black Swan role ultimately blurs the line between reality and delusion.

🎭 Competition

The cutthroat nature of the dance world fosters intense competition among the characters. Nina’s rivalry with Lily serves as a catalyst for her psychological unraveling. The pressure to excel in a fleeting career heightens the stakes, culminating in tragic consequences.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Similar Movies to Black Swan
Discover movies like Black Swan that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.