The Last Showgirl, directed by Gia Coppola and starring Pamela Anderson, is a visually captivating film that explores the life of Shelly Gardner, a Vegas showgirl facing the end of her career. Anderson’s performance can only be described as a career-defining role, marking a triumphant return to the screen for the iconic actress.
Set against the glitzy backdrop of Las Vegas, the film follows Shelly as she navigates the final weeks of her long-running show, “Le Razzle Dazzle.” The announcement that the show will close after 30 years sends Shelly into a spiral of confusion and panic, forcing her to confront her identity and future.
Pamela Anderson’s performance as Shelly is nothing short of breathtaking. Known widely from her “Baywatch” days, Anderson brings a depth and vulnerability to Shelly that might surprise those familiar only with her more public persona. Her portrayal is perfectly captures the essence of a woman who has lived her life through the applause of an audience, now facing an identity crisis as her show, “Le Razzle Dazzle,” faces its final curtain. Anderson’s ability to convey Shelly’s internal struggle, her fear, and her undying love for the stage is the heart of the film.
Supporting Anderson is a cast that feels like an ensemble of real-life Vegas veterans. Jamie Lee Curtis plays Annette, Shelly’s best friend and a former showgirl turned cocktail waitress, with a raw, comedic edge that complements Anderson’s more earnest performance. Curtis’s portrayal adds a layer of comic relief while also diving into the bitter truths of a life after the spotlight. The chemistry between Anderson and Curtis is evident, making their scenes together some of the film’s most compelling moments.
One of the film’s narrative strengths is its focus on the mother-daughter relationship between Shelly and her estranged daughter, Hannah (played by Billie Lourd). This subplot brings an additional layer of emotion, highlighting the sacrifices Shelly made for her career over personal relationships.
Director Gia Coppola’s approach to this film is both respectful and revelatory. She manages to create a world that feels both timeless and transient, much like the Vegas spectacle itself. Her direction keeps the focus on character over spectacle, which is a bold choice in a setting known for its excess.
The Last Showgirl is a film that invites viewers to reflect on their own dreams, the price they pay for them, and what remains when the applause fades.
The Last Showgirl arrives at Luna Palace Cinemas on February 20.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
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