Film Review: Black Swan

I went to see Black Swan having heard that it was a must-see, but knowing little of the plot and having few expectations. I can honestly say I was blown away.

Natalie Portman's portrayal of Nina, a young ballerina feeling the pressure of being cast in her first leading role, is spot on. Portman manages, impressively, to present the fragility of a young girl in a seductive world suffering with mental illnesses and a difficult mother. Yet, is also pitch-perfect in Nina's darker moments where she is ambitious and deceitful. This is Portman reaching new heights, showcasing her acting expertise.

Nina's part in the production depends on her ability to delve into her darker side, as she does panic attacks and delusions become a regular occurrence. The viewer watches as Nina's performance improves and her mental health rapidly deteriorates. There is a fusion between an artistic breakthrough and a nervous breakdown.

The film is glossy and glamorous, exciting and very scary. Putting to one side, the astounding acting and the 'on the edge of your seat' plot, the film is also visually impressive. No detail is left to chance. The close up camera shots, grainy photography and behind the shoulder tracking of Nina may seem like obvious tricks to build tension, but the truth is these tricks work. And a consistent palette of black and white interior serve to emphasise the battle between Nina's own black and white swan. And, the dancing alone is reason enough to see this film; it is beautiful.

This is a thoroughly accomplished film. I would be surprised if Portman does not win Best Actress at the Oscars, she definitely deserves to.

Golden Globes: Best Dressed 2011

It's always a fierce competition, but here's the pick of this Golden Globes best dressed 2011.

Angelina Jolie ditched her signature black palette, for a sequined emerald gown by Atelier Versace.

Other stars of the night, included Anne Hathaway in a gold, floor-skimming Armani Prive dress, which highlighted her stunning curves. The sequins shone perfectly against the red carpet, and Anne scores extra fashion points for her originality - not many opt for full length sleeves at a black tie affair.

Claire Danes was at her best in a salmon coloured, halter neck Calvin Klein. Working one of Springs hottest trends, the minimalist look, Ms Danes paired her outfit with one gold cuff and a sleek up do.

Host of the evening, Olivia Wilde, was one of the few stars to opt for the traditional puffball gown. Looking like a true princess, Olivia wore a breathtaking strapless Marchesa gown coated in silver and gold jewels.

Emma Stone teamed her new blonde locks with a beautiful, body-con maxi by Calvin Klein. Coral is the perfect colour for Spring, and though the dress may have appeared simplistic on a first viewing, the daring cut-away back and metallic clutch made sure this dress got the recognition it deserved.

A cream lace Burberry gown, with sheer sleeves, was the perfect dress for Leighton Meester. And her gold-box clutch is Hollywood glamour at its best.

Glee star Lea Michele shone in a pale pink, ruffled Oscar de la Renta. The one shouldered dress made sure all eyes were on Lea.

Sandra Bullock made the most of the event, showcasing a new blunt fringe and a gorgeously girly Jenny Packman chiffon gown.

The Emmy's 2010 - Best dressed

There were many a gorgeous and well dressed star at this year's Emmy Awards. But here's my pick of the very best dressed both on the red carpet and at the most glamorous after-show parties.

Mad Men star January Jones stunned in this shimmering sea blue satin gown. Teamed with black classic platforms, this Atelier Versace dress with fitted corset and train was the perfect amount of glamour, originality and sophistication for the event. Truly beautiful.

In a one-shouldered, floaty, lavender Christian Dior dress Emily Blunt ensured that all eyes were on her at this year's awards. This unusual colour choice showed off Emily's pale skin tone perfectly. And the cream sequined embellishment keeps the dress looking modern.

This floor-skimming, navy Oscar de la Renta gown had Glee's Lea Michele catching everyone's eye. The strapless, ruffled gown was full on extravagance and showed off Lea's figure to its best.

In a simple cut floor length gown, Troy actress Rose Bryn opted for classic style. Updated with a gold belt and straps, and a flash of flesh, this white Gucci dress stole the day.

Vampire Diaries actress Nina Dobrev was on trend in this beautiful nude, one shouldered lace gown. Accessorized with elegant drop earrings and a sophisticated up do, this Zuhair Murad creation screams effortless cool.

Anna Paquin opted for an original choice, when she wore this black and gold Alexander McQueen number. The accentuated shoulders and deep neckline added extra detail to the heavy embellishment. Teamed with gold bangles and killer black patent courts, Anna brought a youthful and creative spin to the event.