The beguiling Natalie Portman was challenged to portray layers of identity within believably human and vulnerable characters - both written as performers - while daring us to acknowledge the meta artifice at the heart of both Aronofsky’s Black Swan and Todd Haynes’ May December. Each film is utterly distinct in terms of film style and character, yet connected by the brilliance and authenticity of a great American actress.

MAY DECEMBER (1h 57m)
Dir. Todd Haynes
Starring Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, Charles Melton
After their relationship ignited a tabloid saga two decades ago, Gracie (Julianne Moore) and Joe (Charles Melton) now lead a seemingly perfect suburban life. Their domestic bliss is disrupted when Elizabeth (Natalie Portman), a famous television actress, arrives in their tight-knit community to research her upcoming role as Gracie. As Elizabeth ingratiates herself into the everyday lives of Gracie and Joe, the uncomfortable facts of their scandal unfurl, causing long-dormant emotions to resurface. In May December, director Todd Haynes (Safe, Carol) explores one of the great talents of the human species: our colossal refusal to look at ourselves.

BLACK SWAN (1h 48m)
Dir. Darren Arronofsky
Starring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel
Nina (Natalie Portman) is a ballerina whose passion for the dance rules every facet of her life. When the company’s artistic director decides to replace his prima ballerina for their opening production of “Swan Lake,” Nina is his first choice. She has competition with newcomer Lily (Mila Kunis) however. While Nina is perfect for the role of the White Swan, Lily personifies the Black Swan. As rivalry between the two dancers transforms into a twisted friendship, Nina’s dark side begins to emerge.