Oscar-nominated `Black Swan` to hit Indian screens Feb 25

New Delhi: Indian aficionados of ballet dancing will be in for a treat as Natalie Portman starrer Oscar-nominated drama `Black Swan` will hit the screens here Feb 25.

Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the psychological thriller, also starring Vincent Cassel, Winona Ryder and Mila Kunis, has bagged five Oscar nominations for best picture, best actress for Portman, best director for Aronofsky, best cinematography for Matthew Libatique, and best film editing for Andrew Weisblum. The outing also has to its credit a Golden Globe gong for best actress for Portman who also received standing ovations at numerous international film festivals. "Black Swan" revolves around Nina (Portman), a ballerina with a prestigious New York City ballet company whose life is completely consumed with dance. When artistic director Thomas Leroy (Cassel) decides to replace prima ballerina Beth MacIntyre (Ryder) for the opening production of their new season, "Swan Lake", Nina is his first choice. But Nina has competition - a new dancer, Lily (Kunis), who impresses Leroy as well, as "Swan Lake" requires a dancer who can play both the White Swan with innocence and grace, and the Black Swan, who represents guile and sensuality. Nina fits the White Swan role perfectly but Lily is the personification of the Black Swan. As the two young dancers expand their rivalry into a twisted friendship, Nina begins to get more in touch with her dark side - a recklessness that threatens to destroy her. IANS