THE LAST SHOWGIRL (2024) – Captivating and Heartfelt: Pamela Anderson Shines as ‘The Last Showgirl’

The Last Showgirl offers an introspective character study of Shelly, an aging Las Vegas showgirl, who is compelled to confront her future when the show she has performed in for the last three decades is abruptly terminated. The casting of Pamela Anderson in the lead role is a noteworthy choice, given her fame as a 1990s sex symbol and her prominent appearances in the television series Baywatch. Despite her enduring association with this image, Anderson delivers a performance in The Last Showgirl that may well be the pinnacle of her career.

As Shelly, Anderson embodies the essence of a woman whose passion for her craft has led her to prioritize her career above all else. She adeptly conveys Shelly’s inner thoughts and character, drawing the audience into her world. As age begins to take its toll, the consequences of her life choices start to haunt her. Within this narrative framework, the film thoughtfully explores themes of aging, life’s purpose, friendship, and personal loss. Anderson is supported by a cast of compelling characters who deliver equally commendable performances.

Among these is Annette, Shelly’s best friend and a retired dancer turned cynical cocktail waitress. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a bold and memorable portrayal, unabashedly displaying her unflattering figure while dispensing worldly advice to Shelly. This character is both humorous and tragic. Dave Bautista also impresses as Eddie, the long-time producer of the show. Bautista continues to diversify his acting portfolio, offering an authentic dramatic performance that further establishes his reputation as a serious actor.

Ultimately, the film belongs to Pamela Anderson. She offers a convincing portrayal of a woman whose entire adult life has been spent in the spotlight and the “razzle-dazzle” world of showgirl performances. This art form, perhaps not widely appreciated, provides Shelly with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The visionary direction of Gia Coppola, granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola, significantly contributes to the film’s distinctiveness. Coppola’s choice to focus the camera in close-up shots of the actors’ faces enhances the engagement and emotional depth of their performances.

The film adopts a rustic, vintage aesthetic, presenting a side of Las Vegas devoid of its usual glitter and spectacle. Coppola leverages the film’s modest budget to craft a compelling narrative without the need for elaborate sets and props. This minimalist approach proves effective, particularly in the film’s final act, where the audience is treated to a glimpse of the “razzle-dazzle” showgirl performance. The beauty of the costumes and the energy of the performers transport viewers to a different world, allowing them to empathize with Shelly’s dedication to her craft.

In summary, The Last Showgirl is an engaging and heartfelt exploration of a performer’s life, elevated by Anderson’s exceptional performance and Coppola’s deft direction.