10 Movies & Shows Like Black Swan (2010)

Description: This classic film shares with 'Black Swan' a focus on the sacrifices and psychological pressures faced by ballet dancers. Both films use the art of ballet as a metaphor for the protagonist's inner turmoil and the destructive nature of artistic passion. The vivid, dreamlike sequences in 'The Red Shoes' also parallel the surreal elements in 'Black Swan'.

Fact: The film is considered one of the greatest British films ever made. The ballet sequence is a 17-minute tour de force. Martin Scorsese has cited it as a major influence on his work.

Description: Andrzej Żuławski's 'Possession' shares with 'Black Swan' a focus on psychological disintegration and bodily horror. Both films feature protagonists whose mental breakdowns manifest in physical ways, with surreal and disturbing imagery that blurs the line between reality and hallucination.

Fact: Isabelle Adjani's performance won her Best Actress at Cannes. The film was banned in several countries. It was shot in West Berlin during the Cold War.

Description: Like 'Black Swan', 'Requiem for a Dream' portrays the devastating effects of obsession and addiction. Both films use intense, visceral filmmaking techniques to immerse the audience in the protagonist's deteriorating mental state. The themes of self-destruction and the pursuit of an unattainable ideal are central to both narratives.

Fact: The film's score by Clint Mansell is iconic. Ellen Burstyn's performance earned her an Oscar nomination. Director Darren Aronofsky used a 'hip-hop montage' technique to show the characters' routines.

Description: Christian Bale's extreme physical transformation in 'The Machinist' parallels Natalie Portman's in 'Black Swan', both serving as outward manifestations of inner turmoil. Both films explore themes of guilt, identity, and the fragility of the mind.

Fact: Christian Bale lost 63 pounds for the role. The film was shot in Barcelona. The director, Brad Anderson, is known for his work in horror and thriller genres.

Description: The 2018 remake of 'Suspiria' shares with 'Black Swan' a dark, atmospheric exploration of female artistry and bodily transformation. Both films feature protagonists who undergo extreme physical and psychological changes in pursuit of their art, set against the backdrop of a highly competitive and sinister artistic community.

Fact: The film features a score by Radiohead's Thom Yorke. It was shot on 35mm film to emulate the look of 1970s horror. Tilda Swinton plays three different roles in the film.

Description: Mickey Rourke's portrayal of a washed-up wrestler mirrors Natalie Portman's performance in 'Black Swan' in its depiction of the physical and emotional toll of performance. Both films explore themes of aging, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of life in the spotlight.

Fact: Mickey Rourke's performance was a career resurgence. The film won the Golden Lion at Venice. Bruce Springsteen wrote the title song.

Description: Like 'Black Swan', 'Under the Skin' explores themes of identity and transformation through a female protagonist. Both films use surreal and unsettling imagery to depict the protagonist's journey, with a focus on the body as a site of both power and vulnerability.

Fact: Scarlett Johansson wore a wig and prosthetic makeup to go unrecognized during filming. Many of the male actors were non-professionals unaware they were in a film. The score by Mica Levi is highly acclaimed.

Description: Nicolas Winding Refn's 'The Neon Demon' shares with 'Black Swan' a focus on beauty, obsession, and the dark side of the entertainment industry. Both films use striking visual aesthetics to depict the protagonist's descent into a nightmarish world where appearance and reality blur.

Fact: The film was booed at Cannes but also received a standing ovation. Elle Fanning was only 16 during filming. The soundtrack was composed by Cliff Martinez, known for his work on 'Drive'.

Description: Like 'Black Swan', 'Whiplash' explores the psychological and physical toll of pursuing artistic perfection. Both films delve into themes of obsession, self-destruction, and the blurred line between mentorship and abuse. The intense, almost claustrophobic atmosphere and the protagonist's descent into madness mirror Nina's journey in 'Black Swan'.

Fact: J.K. Simmons won an Oscar for his role as the ruthless music instructor. The film was shot in just 19 days. Miles Teller performed most of the drumming himself.

Description: Gaspar Noé's 'Climax' shares with 'Black Swan' a descent into madness, portrayed through a mix of dance and psychological horror. Both films use the body as a site of transformation and terror, with long, unbroken takes that immerse the viewer in the protagonist's unraveling.

Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days. The dance sequences were improvised by the cast. The opening credits appear 45 minutes into the film.