The Toronto International Film Festival shines with ‘The Last Showgirl’
A dazzling premiere
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) kicked off its 49th edition with a bang, showcasing the world premiere of The Last Showgirl. This Vegas-set drama, directed by Gia Coppola, marks a significant moment for Pamela Anderson, who steps into the awards-season spotlight for the first time in her illustrious career.
A story of resilience and dreams
The Last Showgirl follows the life of Shelley, a veteran dancer with three decades of experience, who finds herself in the last traditional floor show in Sin City. The film stars Pamela Anderson as Shelley, with Dave Bautista playing the stage manager who delivers the devastating news that their act will close in two weeks. The cast also includes Kiernan Shipka and Brenda Song as the next-gen dancers, while Billie Lourd portrays Shelley’s estranged daughter. Adding a touch of humor, Jamie Lee Curtis plays a cocktail waitress enduring the harsh realities of working in a casino.
A heartfelt reception
Anderson received a standing ovation during the Q&A session post-screening. Dressed in black pants, a black blouse, and dark sunglasses, she shared her journey from ’90s sex symbol to embodying Shelley, a dreamer sidelined by age in the relentless Vegas churn. “I’ve been preparing my whole life for this film,” she quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience. “I never felt so strongly about something. It was do it, just be it, and I did it.”
A career renaissance
Anderson, a native Canadian who rose to fame on Baywatch, is experiencing a career resurgence. Following last year’s Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story and her best-selling memoir Love Pamela, The Last Showgirl offers a fresh perspective on the often-objectified star. 2024 has been a pivotal year for Anderson, with notable directors like Coppola seeking her out. She recently signed with CAA, which is marketing The Last Showgirl at TIFF.
Emotional reflections
Curtis, moved to tears, paid tribute to the people who keep the Vegas economy running, many of whom struggle to make ends meet. “It’s really hard for people in Vegas. A really hard life,” she said, her voice breaking. “The dreams become a really harsh reality, especially for women.” She drew parallels between Hollywood and Vegas, noting, “I’m a product of that same reality.”
Lourd reflected on how the film deepened her understanding of her relationship with her late mother, Carrie Fisher, and her grandmother, Debbie Reynolds. “I got to understand my mom on a deeper level,” she said of her role opposite Anderson. “And Pamela was an absolute gift.” The two actresses shared a heartfelt hug on stage.
A homecoming for Anderson
TIFF serves as a homecoming for Anderson, who hails from British Columbia. Despite the steady rain, the atmosphere inside the Princess of Wales Theatre was electric. In one poignant scene, Anderson’s character endures a humiliating audition where a male producer cuts her performance short, calling her by the wrong name and dismissing her as not young or sexy enough.
“I’m 57 and I’m beautiful, you son of a bitch,” she declares, drawing cheers from the audience.
Final thoughts
The Last Showgirl is more than just a film; it’s a testament to resilience, dreams, and the harsh realities faced by many in the entertainment industry. With its stellar cast and heartfelt performances, it promises to be a standout in this year’s festival circuit. For those eager to dive deeper into the world of The Last Showgirl, check out the trailer and immerse yourself in this compelling story.