Portman's Oscar Pain: A Broken Rib for Black Swan

Natalie Portman recounted the severe physical challenges faced while preparing for her Oscar-winning performance in the 2010 film Black Swan. The psychological thriller, directed by Darren Aronofsky, saw Portman portraying a ballerina grappling with her sanity. During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, Portman shared that she sustained an injury, describing it as a "misplaced rib or something" that shifted inward, a consequence of frequent lifts and demanding choreography.

Her commitment to the role extended far beyond acting. Former New York City Ballet dancer Mary Helen Bowers detailed Portman's rigorous training schedule. This regimen involved five hours of ballet practice each morning, six days a week, for an extended period. Portman would then proceed to a 12-hour workday before an evening gym session focusing on toning and swimming, a relentless cycle that prepared her for the physically demanding role. Portman has received multiple Oscar nominations throughout her career, including for her roles in "Jackie" (2016) and "Closer" (2004). Her voice work in the animated film "Arco" also earned a nomination for Best Animated Feature Film in the current awards season, a task likely less physically taxing.