NSSD: Ballet Makes You EVIL

[stsisyphus]

For those wondering, Black Swan is rather like a traditional fairy tale told in contemporary terms. No mysticism or magic or wonder, but a lot of spooky things happening for reasons that don't make any sense to the principle character - but are pretty evident to the audience. There is a handsome (and unfaithful) prince, there's a  trapped virginal

Comments

[setsuled]

If you haven't already, watch The Red Shoes.

[stsisyphus]

I know, the two films are obviously going to be linked in any critical discussion of Black Swan. Since I have not seen The Red Shoes (although I have read the wikipedia page once or twice from it being mentioned in various discussions on various LJs), I really didn't feel qualified to make any in-depth analysis of the newer film. I am hoping to see your assessment of the film sometime soon.

I must hesitantly admit that the likelihood of my viewing The Red Shoes is pretty small. For some reason, my brain can't seem to really properly digest films made prior to 1970 (I waffled there, originally posting 1950, then to 1960, then to 1965, but I think 1970 is probably the most honest). I'm not too sure what it is, but I just can't seem to pay proper attention to what I need to see - I get distracted by temporal artifacts (film stock, clothing styles, the dated vernacular and language, acting styles, etc) and get too distracted to maintain interest. It's part of why I really enjoy your own reviews and analyses of older films, they

[setsuled]

For some reason, my brain can't seem to really properly digest films made prior to 1970

That seems to be the case for a lot of people. I suspect it's a big part of the reason so many plots get reused.

It's part of why I really enjoy your own reviews and analyses of older films, they communicate and transmit an appreciation for works of art that I can't seem to engage.

I'm glad I can bridge the gap to some extent. I know I owe a lot of my appreciation of film to my high school film teacher, who was very good at discussing the films he showed to the class.

[unsi_sempai]

I'd really like to see this movie!