Black Swan is in desperate need of more subtlety, the film’s practically an allegory for the character herself, tempted into the American selling points of bombast and sex. Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) also needed more justification for her dramatics. But, the basic concept is a great one (despite the obvious Perfect Blue inspiration), and it’s fresh to see a ballet-themed drama. The body horror scenes are gripping and repulsive, performances are good all around, music is synced appropriately, and the pacing is great.