The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has long been a stage where many stars reignite their careers, showcasing performances that remind audiences of their talent. In previous years, festival attendees have cheered for the likes of Brendan Fraser for his standout role in The Whale. This year, the festival’s spotlight landed on a perhaps unexpected comeback: Pamela Anderson.
On a memorable Friday evening, director Gia Coppola premiered her latest film, The Last Showgirl, an independent drama featuring Pamela Anderson as an aging Las Vegas showgirl. In the film, Anderson portrays Shelley, the enduring star of a casino dance production characterized by scantily clad, feather-adorned performers that has seen more glamorous days. As audience attendance wanes, the show’s stage manager, played by Dave Bautista, informs the troupe that their final performance is imminent. The announcement leaves Shelley, who holds a deep belief in the significance of the show, in a contemplative state about her future choices and the essence of her existence.
The Last Showgirl, currently for sale in Toronto, sparked a wave of mixed critical reviews. However, Anderson herself received warm applause and a standing ovation from the audience gathered at the Princess of Wales Theatre. For the 57-year-old actress, whose career has been largely defined by roles in iconic series like Baywatch and comedic performances such as in Borat, this moment of acclaim represented a turning point.
“I’ve been getting ready my whole life for this role,” Anderson shared with the crowd during a Q&A session post-premiere. Her palpable enthusiasm was clear as she described her experience working on the film. “It’s the first time I’ve read a good script, first of all. I’ve never had a script come to me that was coherent,” she admitted candidly. “I was like: I’m the only one that can do this. I’ve never felt that strongly about something.”
The accolades for The Last Showgirl contribute to a streak of successes for Anderson. Earlier this year, she released her memoir, “Love, Pamela,” which received favorable reviews, as did the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary, Pamela, A Love Story.
. Both projects allowed Anderson to share her life’s journey with the public in her own words, shedding light on her complexities and vulnerabilities.
Interestingly, The Last Showgirl shares thematic connections with another film showcased at TIFF this year. The Substance, a body horror film starring Demi Moore, also delves into the often harsh realities of aging, especially within the realm of female entertainers. Both films highlight the societal pressures and ageism that women in the entertainment industry face, offering a sharp commentary on the double standards that persist.
Joining Anderson in The Last Showgirl is Jamie Lee Curtis, who takes on the role of a highly bronzed casino waitress. Curtis, another Hollywood veteran, resonated deeply with her character. In an emotional moment whilst discussing her role, she expressed, “I’m just a product of that same reality. You know who Annette is. Every single one of you knows an Annette. It’s a movie about dreams and going after your dreams. But of course, the dreams become a really (expletive) harsh reality. And for women, it’s a really harsh reality that men don’t have as much.” Curtis, with a characteristic grin, then added, “And a spray tan helps.”
The film, laden with reflective themes and poignant performances, has undeniably set the stage for Pamela Anderson’s renewed chapter in Hollywood. While it’s apparent that Anderson’s journey has been fraught with public scrutiny and challenges, her role in The Last Showgirl serves as a testament to her resilience and capacity for reinvention.
As Toronto’s cinephiles continue to buzz over this year’s lineup, the festival’s rich tapestry of stories reflects the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. The Last Showgirl, with its introspective take on showbiz’s shimmer and the grit beneath, adds a meaningful layer to TIFF 2024’s narrative. For Anderson, it’s a moment of resurgence, affirming her place in the cinematic world and perhaps hinting at more compelling performances to come.
Published – September 07, 2024 11:45 am IST
World cinema
English cinema
