The Last Showgirl review by Bobby Blakey
For years Pamela Anderson was everywhere with hit shows like Home Improvement, Baywatch and V.I.P. and cult hit films like Barb Wire, not to mention her modeling career and fights for animal rights through PETA. Then suddenly she was gone from the spotlight with only popping up from time to time in various projects. Now she is taking center stage once again for her new film The Last Showgirl from director Gia Coppola. Could this be a career defining performance or should it be the curtain call?
The Last Showgirl follows Shelly, a glamorous showgirl who must plan for her future when her show abruptly closes after a 30-year run. The film co-stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Billie Lourd, Kiernan Shipka, and Brenda Song.
I love when movies like this come along that not only serve as some sort of possible career resurgence but comes through in a way that is unexpected and powerful. Despite her iconic nature Anderson wasn’t one that you would normally have looked at in the vein of heavy drama, but this role not only gives her the chance to shine but showcase the true talent that she has. She steps into this role and gives it everything she has emotionally and physically to deliver easily the best performance of her career.
I have to say that this isn’t an upbeat film or anything overexciting. As a matter of fact, it is kind of a downer, but that’s also thanks to the strong performances across the board. While Anderson is carrying the film on her shoulders all around, the supporting cast all get their moment to shine as well. There is an engaging performance from Curtis who is almost a mirror to the nature of what Shelly is going through after already experiencing it and still finding her own place of acceptance.
In a much smaller, but powerful role is Dave Bautista who once again showcases a wider range than just being the strong action guy. He doesn’t have a lot of screen time, but brings a powerful emotional presence to the role that serves as a different level for Anderson to play off of and what she is missing in the bigger picture. He clearly relishes his part and injects true growth as an actor bringing go much to such a small role.
This is a gritty film that doesn’t try to be anything other than the real-life essence it is showcasing. The unrealistic voice of the entertainment industry and view of age and beauty is something that will sadly always be an issue but has handled it in a powerful way. This film won’t work for everyone as it is slow, but if you let the message and performances shine then the stars shine as bright as they do on stage.
Decide for yourself and check out The Last Showgirl in theaters now from Roadside Attractions.