The Toronto International Film Festival has seen many comeback stories over the years, including Brendan Fraser’s performance in “The Whale” and this year’s unlikely comeback by Pamela Anderson. Anderson stars in Gia Coppola’s film “The Last Showgirl,” playing an aging Las Vegas showgirl named Shelley. As the show’s attendance dwindles, Shelley is faced with the decision to continue on or move on from the show she believes in. The film, which premiered at the festival, received mixed reviews but warm applause for Anderson, who expressed her readiness for the role and the novelty of receiving a coherent script like this.
Anderson, known for her roles in “Baywatch” and “Borat,” has experienced a run of good fortune including her memoir “Love, Pamela” and the Netflix documentary “Pamela, A Love Story.” “The Last Showgirl” shares themes with another TIFF entry, the body horror film “The Substance,” which stars Demi Moore and confronts ageism in the entertainment industry. Jamie Lee Curtis, who also stars in “The Last Showgirl,” expressed emotion discussing her character and how the film reflects the harsh reality faced by women pursuing their dreams, compared to men.
The film explores the struggles faced by female entertainers in a male-dominated industry, with themes of dreams and reality colliding. Curtis highlighted the character of Annette, a casino waitress, as a representation of the challenges women face in pursuing their dreams. She emphasized the harsh reality that women encounter, compared to men, and humorously added that a spray tan may help in the pursuit of those dreams. The film’s exploration of ageism and harsh realities for female performers resonated with audiences and critics alike at the festival.
Anderson’s performance in “The Last Showgirl” marks a significant milestone in her career, as she tackles a complex role that showcases her talent and versatility as an actress. The film’s premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival has garnered attention and praise for Anderson and the rest of the cast, including Curtis. The themes of aging, dreams, and harsh realities depicted in the film have struck a chord with audiences, prompting discussions about the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry and society as a whole.
As the film continues its run at the festival, Anderson’s portrayal of Shelley in “The Last Showgirl” serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity. The story of an aging showgirl navigating the difficult realities of her career resonates with audiences who appreciate the depth and complexity of female characters. Anderson’s performance, alongside the rest of the cast, has received positive reviews and applause at the festival, solidifying her place as a talented and captivating actress in the industry. The success of “The Last Showgirl” underscores the importance of telling diverse and empowering stories that reflect the experiences and struggles of women in society.
