The Last Showgirl Film

2024 - 9 - 7

Pamela Anderson's Glittery Comeback: Is 'The Last Showgirl' a Showstopper or a Flop?

the last showgirl Gia Coppola - Hollywood comebacks - Pamela Anderson - The Last Showgirl - Toronto International Film Festival - Vegas showgirls - the last showgirl

After years away from the spotlight, Pamela Anderson steps back into the limelight with ‘The Last Showgirl’; but does she glide gracefully or stumble on stage?

Pamela Anderson has made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival with her performance in the indie drama "The Last Showgirl." Directed by Gia Coppola, this film attempts to capture the heart and soul of aging showgirls on the Las Vegas Strip, a role that Anderson embodies with a surprising depth. Critics have been polarized in their reviews, with some calling her a "revelation" while others suggest her performance falls flat. Regardless of the divided opinions, one thing is for sure: this marks Anderson's major return to the acting world, and she's ready to take a bow.

The film offers a glimpse into the life of Shelley, an aging showgirl holding onto her dreams. Many reviews highlight the atmospheric qualities of the film and the sharply drawn characters that surround Anderson, enhancing her performance. In an industry driven by youth and beauty, her portrayal brings a refreshing perspective, as audiences witness the trials and tribulations faced by those who once commanded the spotlight in all its glittery glory. And, of course, leave it to Gondola to adorn the tale with emotional depth, showcasing both the fun and loneliness that often lurks behind the scenes of such a glamorous life.

But let's face it: Anderson's much-anticipated comeback generates a buzz that arguably overshadows the film itself. Hype surrounding a TIFF premiere can spark hope, and some are eager for "The Last Showgirl" to be the comeback story every viewer loves to cheer for. Others remain skeptical, pointing out that while the film has moments of brilliance, it lacks the transformative impact needed to elevate it to cult classic status. The audience will have to determine if this effort is a true reflection of Anderson’s talent or merely an attempt to rekindle the flames of bygone fame.

As Anderson takes her final bow, the heartwarming yet critical responses prove that she possesses the potential for a second act, if anyone has the grace and drive to pivot their career, it’s this former “Baywatch” star. While it's uncertain where her future lies, it's evident that her tenacious spirit is alive and well.

In the world of cinema, several stars have experienced spectacular comebacks, filtering tales of resilience through a lens of nostalgia and pride. Anderson's portrayal of an aging showgirl resonates with many who have cherished her earlier career—her dedication to the role might just pave the way for more heartfelt performances ahead. We'll surely be watching to see what she does next!

Post cover
Image courtesy of "The Guardian"

The Last Showgirl review - Pamela Anderson's big comeback is a ... (The Guardian)

Toronto film festival: an empty-headed attempt to give the star her version of The Wrestler is a regrettable misfire. Benjamin Lee in Toronto.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "TIME"

The Rich History Behind Pamela Anderson's Tender Performance in ... (TIME)

Anderson plays an aging Vegas showgirl in the new movie from Gia Coppola. For so many reasons, it's a role only she could meaningfully deliver.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "BBC News"

The Last Showgirl review: Pamela Anderson is 'a revelation' in ... (BBC News)

Gia Coppola's atmospheric and sympathetic drama about the showgirls on the Vegas strip features "sharply drawn characters" and outstanding performances.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "USA TODAY"

Pamela Anderson on her 'Last Showgirl' dream role: 'I have nothing ... (USA TODAY)

And that's about how long Shelley, the role the former “Baywatch” star plays in director Gia Coppola's ensemble drama “The Last Showgirl,” has been performing ...

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Barrie 360"

Pamela Anderson takes a bow at TIFF for 'The Last Showgirl' (Barrie 360)

The Toronto International Film Festival has played host to many comeback stories - and this year's might be Pamela Anderson.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "New York Post"

Pamela Anderson's red-hot second act continues with 'Last Showgirl' (New York Post)

In “The Last Showgirl,” which had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, Pamela Anderson stars as a 57-year-old Las Vegas revue ...

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Jordan Ruimy"

Pamela Anderson Fails 'The Last Showgirl' [TIFF] — World of Reel (Jordan Ruimy)

Just a quick note on Gia Coppola's “The Last Showgirl,” which just screened at TIFF. Don't listen to some of the more positive takes on the film.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "CHEK"

Pamela Anderson takes a bow at TIFF for 'The Last Showgirl' (CHEK)

On Friday, Gia Coppola premiered her film “The Last Showgirl,” an indie drama starring Anderson as an aging Las Vegas showgirl.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Variety"

Pamela Anderson on Being Underestimated by Hollywood (Variety)

The 'Baywatch' icon talks about her career-changing role as in 'The Last Showgirl,' which made its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Daily Beast"

'The Last Showgirl' Review: Not the Acting Comeback Pam ... (Daily Beast)

All eyes were on the former “Baywatch” star, in her meta return to the acting spotlight, at the Toronto International Film Festival. Did she pull it off?

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Hollywood Reporter"

'The Last Showgirl' Review: Pamela Anderson Mines Pathos as an ... (Hollywood Reporter)

Pamela Anderson plays a Las Vegas dancer confronted with her expiration date in Gia Coppola's 'The Last Showgirl,' also featuring Jamie Lee Curtis.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Deadline"

'The Last Showgirl': Pamela Anderson Says “This Feels Like Just ... (Deadline)

On Friday night at the Toronto Film Festival, Pamela Anderson's dramatic lead in Gia Coppola's The Last Showgirl was met with rapturous applause.

Explore the last week