The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has long been a stage for remarkable comebacks and unexpected triumphs. Just two years ago, Brendan Fraser won hearts and accolades for his role in “The Whale,” marking a memorable comeback in his career. This year, it’s Pamela Anderson who might just steal the spotlight with a surprising revival of her own.
This past Friday, Gia Coppola unveiled her indie drama, “The Last Showgirl,” at TIFF, featuring Anderson in a role that could redefine her career. In this film, Anderson plays Shelley, a once-glamorous Las Vegas showgirl whose star power is starting to dim. Shelley is the centerpiece of a long-running casino dance show, filled with scantily clad performers and feathered costumes. But as audience numbers dwindle and the show faces its final curtain call, Shelley, played by the 57-year-old Anderson, is left grappling with her future and her deep-rooted belief in the show.
The film, which is currently on the market in Toronto, has generated a spectrum of reviews but received particularly warm applause for Anderson's performance. The enthusiasm for her comeback was palpable, especially given her previous roles in iconic projects like “Baywatch” and “Borat.” This kind of recognition at TIFF is a new and exciting chapter for Anderson, who has spent years in the public eye but not always in the spotlight of critical acclaim.
Following the premiere at the Princess of Wales Theatre, Anderson shared her excitement with the audience, revealing how pivotal this role was for her. “I’ve been getting ready my whole life for this role,” Anderson told the crowd, underscoring the personal significance of her performance in “The Last Showgirl.”
For Anderson, who is perhaps best known for her work on “Baywatch” and her memorable appearance in “Borat,” the warm reception at TIFF was a fresh and exhilarating experience. She admitted that receiving a script like “The Last Showgirl” was a first for her. “It’s the first time I've read a good script, first of all,” Anderson said. “I’ve never had a script come to me that was coherent. I was like: I’m the only one that can do this. I’ve never felt that strongly about something.”
“The Last Showgirl” is part of a wave of recent successes for Anderson, who has also enjoyed acclaim for her 2023 memoir “Love, Pamela” and the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary “Pamela, A Love Story.” Her new film taps into similar themes of personal struggle and transformation, echoing another TIFF entry, “The Substance,” a body horror film starring Demi Moore. Both films tackle the challenges of aging and the harsh realities faced by female entertainers.
Jamie Lee Curtis, who co-stars in “The Last Showgirl” as a bronzed casino waitress, also brought a heartfelt touch to the TIFF discussion. Curtis, known for her own impressive career, reflected on the essence of her character and the broader themes of the film. “I’m just a product of that same reality,” Curtis shared. “You know who Annette is. Every single one of you know an Annette. It’s a movie about dreams and going after your dreams. But of course, the dreams become a really harsh reality. And for women, it’s a really harsh reality that men don’t have as much.”
Curtis, with her characteristic charm, added a lighthearted touch to her commentary: “And a spray tan helps.”
The buzz surrounding “The Last Showgirl” at TIFF is a testament to its emotional depth and the powerful performances by its cast. Anderson's role as Shelley is not just a comeback but a statement of her enduring talent and passion for acting. The film’s exploration of themes like the fleeting nature of fame and the perseverance of those who chase their dreams resonates deeply, offering audiences a compelling narrative wrapped in a glamorous, yet gritty, setting.
As TIFF continues to showcase diverse and inspiring stories, “The Last Showgirl” stands out as a highlight of the festival. Anderson’s performance, coupled with the film’s poignant themes, provides a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by aging performers and the enduring allure of the showbiz world. Whether or not you’re a fan of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, this film offers a heartfelt look at the sacrifices and triumphs of those who make the stage their home.
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