In recent weeks, the term 'last showgirl' has been steadily climbing the ranks of trending topics online, and with good reason. At the heart of this trend is the much-anticipated movie The Last Showgirl, starring Pamela Anderson, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2024. The film, directed by Gia Coppola, marks Anderson's major return to the big screen, drawing both excitement and criticism. Here's an in-depth look at why The Last Showgirl is making waves, the context behind this role, and how it has been received by critics and audiences alike.
Pamela Anderson as 'The Last Showgirl'
The central reason behind the 'last showgirl' trend is Pamela Anderson's casting in the titular role of The Last Showgirl, a film that explores the life of an aging Las Vegas showgirl grappling with her fading fame. For Anderson, this role is deeply personal and significant, as it mirrors her own experience navigating the highs and lows of public life.
In an article from TIME, the film is described as a reflection of Anderson's own journey through the world of show business, making it a role that "only she could meaningfully deliver." Much like the character she portrays, Anderson has experienced the pressures of being in the limelight for decades, enduring scrutiny, objectification, and the challenges of maintaining relevance in an ever-changing entertainment industry.
According to the TIME article, Gia Coppola's vision for the film was to offer a poignant look at the spectacle and tragedy behind the glitz of Las Vegas showbiz. The film's thematic elements bear some resemblance to The Wrestler, which followed a similar narrative of a performer past their prime. However, while The Last Showgirl aimed to pay homage to the trials and tribulations of aging stars, it has received mixed reviews for its execution.
Jamie Lee Curtis Praises Pamela Anderson's Resilience
Adding to the buzz surrounding The Last Showgirl is the support Pamela Anderson has received from her co-stars, including veteran actress Jamie Lee Curtis. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Curtis expressed her "deep respect" for Anderson, highlighting her ability to navigate the challenges and "B.S. of show business."
Curtis, who has had her own decades-long career in Hollywood, emphasized her admiration for Anderson's refusal to conform to the industry's often unrealistic expectations. "I love the way she is walking through the B.S. of show business and saying, ‘I do not need to play your game,'" Curtis said. Anderson's decision to take on a role that directly confronts the harsh realities of fading fame is seen by many, including Curtis, as a bold and empowering move. This mutual respect between the two actresses has helped fuel public interest in the film, as their combined star power has drawn attention to its premiere at TIFF.
Mixed Reception at TIFF: A Disappointing Comeback?
Despite the initial excitement surrounding The Last Showgirl, the film's reception has been less than stellar among critics. In a review by The Guardian, the film was labeled a "regrettable misfire" that failed to live up to expectations. The review criticized the film for being an "empty-headed" attempt to give Anderson her version of The Wrestler, ultimately concluding that it lacked depth and meaning.
The Guardian's review went on to describe Anderson's comeback as underwhelming, expressing disappointment in both the film's narrative structure and Anderson's performance. While the movie sought to offer a deeper commentary on the struggles of aging women in the entertainment industry, it was seen by some critics as a missed opportunity to fully explore these themes in a meaningful way.
However, it's important to note that not all feedback has been negative. Many fans and supporters of Anderson have praised her for the vulnerability and courage she displayed in taking on such a personal role. Even though the film itself has divided opinions, Anderson's willingness to confront her own public persona has resonated with many, offering a glimpse into the real-life challenges she has faced.
The Broader Conversation: Aging and Representation in Show Business
One of the reasons why The Last Showgirl has struck a chord with audiences is its focus on the broader issue of aging in show business—a topic that has been gaining traction in recent years. As more actresses like Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis, and others speak openly about the difficulties of maintaining a career in a youth-obsessed industry, the conversation around representation and ageism continues to grow.
For Anderson, The Last Showgirl serves as a vehicle for exploring these issues head-on. While the film may not have hit the mark for all viewers, its thematic relevance has contributed to its trending status. The dialogue surrounding Anderson's role in the film, and the wider implications for other women in entertainment, has kept the movie in the public eye despite its mixed reviews.
Conclusion: A Comeback with Mixed Reactions
Pamela Anderson's return to the screen in The Last Showgirl has certainly made an impact, even if the film itself hasn't lived up to the lofty expectations set by its premise. With praise from figures like Jamie Lee Curtis and criticism from some reviewers, the movie has sparked a broader conversation about fame, aging, and the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry.
Ultimately, the story of The Last Showgirl is more than just the plot of a film—it's a reflection of Pamela Anderson's own journey and a call to examine the often harsh realities of show business. Whether the movie stands the test of time or fades into the background, its trending status shows that these themes resonate deeply with audiences today.