‘The Last Showgirl’ – Review
Pamela Anderson delivers the performance of her life in Gia Coppola’s The Last Showgirl, and delivers incredible vulnerability in an intimate character study that examines the cost of performance and glamour following the passage of time.
A seasoned showgirl must plan for her future when her show abruptly closes after a 30-year run.
In Gia Coppola’s latest cinematic endeavor, The Last Showgirl, audiences are treated to a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the relentless passage of time. At the heart of this narrative is Pamela Anderson’s transformative portrayal of Shelly, a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl confronting the twilight of her career, and the pairing of Coppola and Anderson bring to light a layered depth and character study of a performer at the end of her road, and the choices that lie before her as she tries desperately to old on to what was once hers.
For Pamela Anderson, The Last Showgirl represents a chance for her to shed her bubbly, sun-kissed and ditzy screen persona, and instead delivers her the chance to dive in deep with a poignant character performance that is both nuanced and deeply affecting. As Shelly, she embodies a woman whose life has been dedicated to the glitz and glamour of the Vegas stage, but at great significant cost. Anderson’s portrayal captures the vulnerability and strength of a character grappling with obsolescence in an industry that prizes youth. Her performance has been lauded as a career-defining moment, with critics noting her ability to convey a spectrum of emotions with authenticity and grace, and for Anderson the character of Shelly was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and she fully delivers on the promise of this picture.
Gia Coppola’s direction offers an intimate look into the world of Las Vegas showgirls, juxtaposing the dazzling on-stage performances with the stark realities faced by these women off-stage. The film delves into themes of ageism and the ephemeral nature of fame, presenting a narrative that is both timely and timeless. The cinematography, which leans into a grainy almost 16mm stock, and the use of fish-eyed lenses captures the neon-lit allure of the Vegas strip while also highlighting the isolation that can exist behind the scenes.
The ensemble cast, featuring notable performances from Jamie Lee Curtis and Dave Bautista, adds depth to Shelly’s story. Curtis portrays Annette, a fellow performer and confidante, bringing a blend of humor and pathos to the role. While Bautista’s Eddie, the stage manager, offers a grounded counterpoint to the flamboyance of the performers, embodying the unsung heroes who keep the show running, and allows him to showcase a greater side of himself as a performer with a role that is filled with inner sense of sadness and silent despair. Their interactions with Anderson’s Shelly enrich the narrative, providing a multifaceted exploration of relationships within the entertainment industry.
The Last Showgirl resonates on multiple levels, offering a meditation on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of art and recognition. Shelly’s journey is a testament to the resilience of performers who, despite facing an industry that often discards its veterans, continue to find purpose and passion in their craft. The film’s pacing allows for a contemplative exploration of these themes, inviting audiences to reflect on their own perceptions of success and fulfillment.
In The Last Showgirl, Pamela Anderson delivers a performance that not only redefines her career but also offers a heartfelt homage to performers whose stories often remain untold. Gia Coppola’s direction, combined with a compelling narrative and strong supporting cast, crafts a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. For those seeking a cinematic experience that delves into the complexities of identity and the human spirit, The Last Showgirl is a must-watch.
Image: MadMan Films
