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VIRAL EXCLUSIVE
Sept. 11, 2024
The Last Showgirl: TIFF Review
Pamela Anderson enters the awards conversation as an ageing Vegas showgirl in Gia Coppola’s third feature.
Canada - The Last Showgirl premiered at
the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) to much acclaim, marking a
significant moment for both its star, Pamela Anderson, and its director, Gia
Coppola. This 85-minute film, Coppola’s third feature, delves into the life of
Shelley, an aging Las Vegas showgirl, portrayed by Anderson in what many
are calling the role of her career.
The film
centers on Shelley, a veteran showgirl who has spent over three decades
performing in the Razzle Dazzle show. As the last of its kind on the Las
Vegas Strip, the show faces closure, pushing Shelley to confront the end of her
career and the sacrifices she has made for her art. The narrative is not just
about the glitz and glamour of showbiz but also about the resilience and
dedication of women who have devoted their lives to this demanding profession.
Pamela
Anderson’s portrayal of Shelley is both heartbreaking and sensational. Known
primarily for her roles as eye candy, Anderson’s performance in The Last
Showgirl is a revelation. She brings depth and vulnerability to the character,
making Shelley’s struggles and triumphs deeply affecting. This role is a stark
departure from her previous work, showcasing her range and earning her a spot
in the awards conversation.
Gia Coppola’s
direction is equally commendable. She treats the subject matter with respect
and sensitivity, avoiding the exploitative pitfalls that similar films have
fallen into2. Coppola’s focus on the behind-the-scenes lives of the showgirls,
their camaraderie, and their dedication to their craft adds a layer of
authenticity and poignancy to the film.
Supporting
Cast
The
supporting cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Kiernan Shipka, and
Brenda Song, deliver strong performances that complement Anderson’s lead.
Bautista, in particular, shines as Eddie, the stage manager who delivers the
devastating news of the show’s closure. Curtis, as a former showgirl turned
waitress, adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the different paths life
can take after the spotlight fades.
Critical
Reception
Critics have
praised The Last Showgirl for its smart, touching, and honest portrayal
of the lives of Las Vegas showgirls. The film’s character-driven approach,
combined with its minimal use of nudity, sets it apart from other films in the
genre. The screenplay by Kate Gersten, who studied the lives of showgirls
extensively, adds a layer of realism and depth to the story.
The Last
Showgirl is a
poignant and powerful film that marks a significant milestone in Pamela
Anderson’s career and solidifies Gia Coppola’s reputation as a talented
director. The film’s exploration of the lives of showgirls, their dedication,
and the sacrifices they make is both moving and inspiring. With its strong
performances, sensitive direction, and authentic storytelling, The Last
Showgirl is a standout at this year’s TIFF and a must-watch for anyone
interested in the human stories behind the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.
