Ballet may not be an art that holds wide appeal but this fact should not prevent filmgoers from viewing Darren Aronofsky’s latest work, Black Swan. The director meant for this to complement The Wrestler, another film about a performer sacrificing themselves for the sake of their art. The series is significant and sophisticated so it can be enjoyed even if the subject is totally ignored. Natalie Portman plays Nina, a ballerina growing into her first major role, the lead in Swan Lake. Nina is technically gifted but dispassionate, unsure about what she wants for herself. Portman took this role because …
The Social Network
In my mind, the best attribute of The Social Network is the screenplay by Aaron Sorkin. The rest of the film may have been interesting and intriguing at times but most of the work was more solid than stupendous. Sorkin’s contribution, based on a real story and making use of rapid-fire dialogue and a unique narrative structure, shines. Sorkin has always been able to take the real world and render it remarkable and witty on-screen. The film recounts the creation of Facebook, is a pop-culture phenomenon. At this time, it is uncertain whether it will remain relevant over the years …
The Wrestler
The Wrestler seems to be a series of compelling character studies instead of an amazing story. Mickey Rourke, possibly playing himself – either a washed-up actor or professional boxer – is the centerpiece of the film. Darren Aronofsky’s decision to use hand-held cameras and authentic locations add to the realism of the film but I would have strongly preferred for his screenplay to tie up a few more loose ends. Does Randy “the Ram” die in the ring? Does his daughter forgive him? What about Cassidy the stripper? “The people who you pass on the way up are the same …