What was a major inspiration for the production design in Black Swan by production designer, Thérèse DePrez?

The production design of "Black Swan," led by Thérèse DePrez, draws significantly from the themes of nature and trees, which serves to create a contrast with the psychological elements of the film. This choice mirrors the protagonist's struggle for identity and transformation, symbolized through motifs of growth and decay found in natural settings. For instance, the depiction of the ballerina's controlled movements in the context of an environment that reflects nature can emphasize themes of confinement versus freedom, as well as the duality of beauty and darkness present in the narrative. The usage of organic elements facilitates a visual narrative that supports the film's exploration of madness and perfection, making nature an apt source of inspiration for DePrez's vibrant and haunting designs.

Other choices, such as urban settings or historical architecture, while important in cinematic design, do not capture the essence of what DePrez aimed to achieve with the film’s specific visual language. Similarly, surrealism, though it plays a part in the film's overall aesthetic, does not focus specifically on the fundamental inspirations drawn from elements of nature and trees.