The film follows Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman), a talented but psychologically fragile ballerina who is chosen to play the lead role of the White Swan in a New York City ballet company’s production of “Swan Lake.” Nina is dedicated to her craft but struggles with perfectionism and self-doubt, particularly under the watchful eye of the company’s artistic director, Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel).
As rehearsals progress, Nina becomes increasingly obsessed with the role and begins to experience hallucinations and paranoid delusions. She becomes convinced that Lily (Mila Kunis), a new dancer in the company, is trying to steal her role and sabotage her performance. Nina’s mental state deteriorates as she grapples with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.
As the pressure mounts, Nina becomes more immersed in her role as the Black Swan, exploring her darker, more sensual side. She engages in a risky sexual encounter with Lily and begins to experience a blur between reality and fantasy, losing herself in the role of the Black Swan.
As the production of “Swan Lake” approaches, Nina’s mental and emotional instability reaches a breaking point. She suffers a mental breakdown during a dress rehearsal and is rushed to the hospital. Despite her fragile state, Nina insists on performing in the opening night performance.
During the performance, Nina fully embraces her role as the Black Swan, delivering a stunning and visceral performance that captivates the audience. However, as she reaches the climax of the ballet, Nina is consumed by her character and stabs herself with a piece of broken glass, sacrificing herself for her art.
In the final scene, Nina’s lifeless body is carried offstage as the audience erupts into applause, unaware of the tragic reality behind the performance. The film ends with a haunting image of a transformed Nina, her face serene and bloodied, symbolizing her ultimate descent into madness and self-destruction.
“Black Swan” is praised for its mesmerizing visuals, intense performances, and psychological depth. It offers a gripping and disturbing exploration of the pursuit of perfection and the toll it can take on one’s mind and soul.