July 26, 2010 – US director Darren Aronofsky’s psychological thriller “Black Swan” will open the Venice film festival in September, organisers have said.

Natalie Portman stars in the story of intrigue involving rival ballerinas in the cutthroat New York ballet world.

“The cast and crew of ‘Black Swan’ are both excited and humbled by the selection committee’s invitation,” said Aronofsky, who won the festival’s coveted Golden Lion in 2008 with “The Wrestler” starring Mickey Rourke.

“It is an honour to walk the great red carpet on the Lido, and we are excited to premiere our film to the wonderful audiences in Venice,” he said in a statement.

Organisers will unveil the full line-up of films competing in the 67th Mostra, running from September 1-11, at a Rome news conference on Thursday.