Resilience Rings True in Vegas

Read Time:4 Minute, 1 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Last Showgirl
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Gia Coppola
Writer(s): Kate Gersten
Cast: Pamela Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, Billie Lourd, John Clofine, Jason Schwartzman, Patrick Hilgart, Jesse Phillips, David Avne, Sean Patrick Bryan
Where To Watch: in theaters nationwide on January 10, 2025

RAVING REVIEW: Director Gia Coppola explores the often-overlooked depths of a Las Vegas performer's life after “fame” in THE LAST SHOWGIRL. This film strips away the city’s sparkling facade to spotlight the realities of those who dazzle us onstage. Led by a powerhouse performance from Pamela Anderson as Shelly, the film invites us into the world of a longtime showgirl facing the twilight of her career. With a cast featuring the talents of Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Kiernan Shipka, Billie Lourd, and Brenda Song, Coppola crafts a tale rich with themes of perseverance, aging, and the price of artistic dedication.

THE LAST SHOWGIRL is not just another fantastical drama; it explores the personal costs associated with a life in the spotlight. Anderson shines, bringing depth and nuance to Shelly. Her portrayal goes beyond the glitz, touching on raw, unglamorous truths about the entertainment industry. Shelly grapples with her fading career and strained relationships, especially with her daughter, played by Billie Lourd. Their complicated relationship adds to the storyline, highlighting the personal sacrifices that often accompany public success.

In a departure from her comedic, Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a gritty performance as veteran dancer Annette. Her character journies through the unforgiving terrain of aging in a youth-obsessed industry. Her character's raw depiction of resilience in the face of “obscurity” contrasts with Las Vegas showbiz's glittering, ephemeral world.

The film also benefits from the fresh-faced performances of Kiernan Shipka and Brenda Song, who play emerging young talents within the volatile industry. Shipka’s Jodie brings a touch of innocence and ambition, while Song's Mary-Anne offers a jaded yet realistic portrayal of the disillusionment that can follow years of chasing dreams. Together, they encapsulate the broader spectrum of experiences behind the city's scenes.

THE LAST SHOWGIRL captures the dualities of Las Vegas with stark realism, thanks to Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s handling of the 16mm film medium. This visual approach enhances the authenticity, emphasizing the contrast between the city’s bright lights and the personal shadows they cast.

The screenplay, adapted from Kate Gersten’s play ‘Body of Work,’ reveals a script that tackles significant themes such as the disposability of talent and society's harsh vision of people as disposable. The film is sensitive yet unflinching, offering a panoramic view of the personal and professional turmoil endured by those who live for the applause.

A vital part of the film's immersive experience is its soundtrack, which features a poignant score by Andrew Wyatt and a captivating new song by Miley Cyrus. Their contributions echo the film's overarching themes of loss and hope, resonating deeply with the audience and enriching the emotional landscape of the narrative.

Dave Bautista’s subtle portrayal of Eddie, the stage manager, introduces a nuanced male perspective within the predominantly female-centric story. His performance underscores the, at times, family-like bonds that sustain those working behind the curtains, providing stability amidst the chaos of this life.

THE LAST SHOWGIRL illuminates the lesser-known aspects of Las Vegas entertainment. Through stellar performances and insightful direction, the film offers a moving commentary on the realities of show business. It celebrates the human spirit's enduring quest for expression and connection in the face of adversity.

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[photo courtesy of ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS]

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