“The Last Showgirl” is a 2024 American drama directed by Gia Coppola, featuring Pamela Anderson in a career-defining role as Shelly Gardner, a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl confronting the end of an era. The film delves into themes of aging, identity, and resilience within the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment.

Plot Summary

Shelly Gardner has dedicated over three decades to performing in “Le Razzle Dazzle,” a classic French-style revue at a prominent Las Vegas casino. As the oldest showgirl on the Strip, she takes pride in her work and serves as a mentor to younger performers like Mary-Anne (Brenda Song) and Jodie (Kiernan Shipka), who regard her as a maternal figure. Her closest confidante, Annette (Jamie Lee Curtis), a former showgirl turned cocktail waitress, provides a glimpse into the potential future awaiting aging performers.

The stability of Shelly’s world is shattered when Eddie (Dave Bautista), the show’s producer and father of her estranged daughter Hannah (Billie Lourd), announces that “Le Razzle Dazzle” will close in two weeks due to declining ticket sales. The production is set to be replaced by a contemporary, neo-burlesque circus act, which Shelly views as a garish departure from traditional artistry. Facing financial insecurity and an uncertain future, she grapples with the harsh realities of an industry that favors youth and novelty over experience.

In a bid to reconnect with her semi-estranged daughter, Shelly reaches out to Hannah, who is now a student in Arizona. Their reunion is strained, marred by years of emotional distance and Shelly’s preoccupation with her career. Hannah attends one of Shelly’s performances, leading to a confrontation that forces Shelly to confront her past choices and the impact they’ve had on her personal life.

As the final performance of “Le Razzle Dazzle” approaches, Shelly faces additional challenges, including a humiliating audition for a new show where she is bluntly dismissed due to her age and perceived lack of talent. Her friendship with Annette also reaches a turning point when Annette loses her job and seeks shelter with Shelly, highlighting the precariousness faced by aging women in the entertainment industry.

Despite these setbacks, Shelly finds solace in her relationships with Mary-Anne and Jodie, who offer support and understanding. She contemplates relocating to Arizona to be present for Hannah’s graduation, signaling a desire to mend their fractured relationship and redefine her sense of purpose beyond the stage.

Critical Reception

“The Last Showgirl” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024 and received widespread acclaim for its poignant exploration of aging and identity. Pamela Anderson’s portrayal of Shelly Gardner has been lauded as a transformative performance, with critics highlighting her ability to channel her own experiences into the role. The film has garnered nominations at the Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards, particularly recognizing Anderson’s compelling lead performance and Jamie Lee Curtis’s supporting role.

Through its intimate character study, “The Last Showgirl” offers a heartfelt reflection on the challenges faced by women in entertainment as they navigate the intersection of personal ambition and societal expectations.

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