Mila Kunis Endures Minimal Diet, Injuries During Black Swan Filming

Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman revealed in a joint Vogue interview the intense physical and dietary regimen they underwent while preparing for their roles in the 2010 psychological thriller Black Swan. Kunis described minimal eating, relying mostly on broth, and dancing for 12 hours a day during an extended six-month preparation period, which was initially planned for three months but prolonged due to financing issues. Both actresses endured physically demanding filming conditions, with Kunis suffering bruises and a dislocated shoulder, which was successfully treated with acupuncture. Portman shared that her year-long training involved extensive conversations with her former New York City Ballet dancer trainer, offering insights into the ballet world. The film, shot on a modest budget and in 42 days, focused on intense dance scenes without traditional rehearsals beyond the dancing itself. Director Darren Aronofsky attempted to create tension between the co-stars, though they remained close friends throughout the production.