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Aronofsky Says He Tried to Pit Portman and Kunis During 'Black Swan'

The Vogue reunion coincides with an IMAX re-release, prompting scrutiny of on-set methods.

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Overview

  • In a new Vogue conversation, Darren Aronofsky acknowledged he attempted to create a real-life rivalry between Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis to mirror their characters.
  • Portman and Kunis said they spotted the tactic quickly, compared notes by text, and maintained a supportive friendship throughout production.
  • Kunis detailed preparation that involved very little eating, broth for sustenance, and up to 12-hour dance days, with rehearsals stretching to six months after financing delays.
  • She said the regimen caused injuries, including bruised ribs and a dislocated shoulder during dance work.
  • Black Swan returns to IMAX theaters on Aug. 21 and 24 for an anniversary engagement, and the remarks have drawn criticism on social media from users calling the approach manipulative.