The Final Curtain on an Iconic Era of Las Vegas Entertainment
Photography and written by Hollie “HollieWood Vegas” Cardinal
The city of neon lights, thrilling entertainment, and larger-than-life personalities recently welcomed an equally dazzling icon: Pamela Anderson. Best known for her iconic television roles and activism, Anderson’s latest project, The Last Showgirl, tells a deeply personal and poignant story about the life of a Las Vegas showgirl facing the end of her career. Her compelling performance in the film has earned her a Golden Globe nomination, adding another chapter to her already legendary career.
Pamela Anderson, whose unmistakable presence has made her a pop culture legend, takes on a role that is as heartbreaking as it is captivating. Her upcoming film, set against the backdrop of the present-day Las Vegas Strip, tells the story of Shelly. Still performing on stage, this former star showgirl has to confront the harsh reality that her decades-long career—one to which she has dedicated her life to sacrificing everything—will come to a close. This poignant tale explores the emotional and psychological struggles of a performer who gave her all, only to watch the world she built slip away. The role deeply moved Anderson herself. During a press junket, she shared that, reflecting on Shelly’s journey, “There’s something profoundly human about Shelly’s story—the dreams she chased, the sacrifices she made, and the identity she clings to even as the world around her changes. It’s a story about resilience and the beauty of reinvention, even in the face of loss.”
This sentiment is echoed in the narrative, which explores the evolving landscape of Las Vegas entertainment. Iconic shows on the Strip are giving way to trendier, edgier residencies and productions that cater to modern audiences. The film brilliantly pushes the notion of “out with the old” by juxtaposing Shelly’s crumbling world with imagery like the torn-down Tropicana, subtly reinforcing the theme of inevitable change.
Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a standout performance as a washed-up, has-been showgirl whose career ended long before Shelly’s. Curtis’ character is more advanced, which is in stark contrast to Shelly’s journey. While Anderson’s Shelly clings to the remnants of her dream, Curtis’ character embodies the reality of what emerges after the spotlight fades. Her unflinching portrayal is raw and unapologetic, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those whose dreams didn’t unfold as planned.
The production of The Last Showgirl was a heartfelt family endeavor, with the Coppola legacy playing a pivotal role in bringing the story to life. Gia Coppola, the film’s director and granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola, led the project with her signature blend of intimacy and emotional depth. Known for her work on films like Palo Alto and Mainstream, Gia’s vision for this film captures the unvarnished reality of performers grappling with the end of their dreams.
Gia wasn’t alone in this journey. Her cousins, Robert Schwartzman and Michael Shire, served as producers, offering unwavering support and ensuring the project retained its authenticity. The collaborative effort extended across the family, each member bringing unique talents. From the film’s direction to its production, the Coppolas created a nurturing environment that allowed Gia’s vision to flourish. This shared commitment to storytelling is a hallmark of their legendary family legacy.
The intimate nature of the project reflects the depth of their collaboration. Shot on 16mm film to evoke a sense of nostalgia and realism, the production unfolded over an intense 18-day schedule. Gia and her team navigated the challenges of filming in vibrant Las Vegas locations, including active theaters and casinos, to capture the city's rich history authentically.
Schwartzman, reflecting on the process, described his role as protecting Gia’s creative vision, saying, “The job of a producer is to protect the director, and I’m proud Gia got to make the movie she wanted to make.”
This seamless family collaboration gave The Last Showgirl a deeply personal touch, resulting in a film that is as much a tribute to its characters' sacrifices as it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
The Beverly Theater hosted an exclusive screening, and Rachel Smith moderated the after-show Q&A session with Anderson and Schwartzman. This intimate event offered a deeper look into the film’s creation and the personal connections that shaped it. Set to premiere in theaters on Friday, January 10, The Last Showgirl is a must-see for anyone who has lived in, still lives in, or visited Las Vegas. With its compelling narrative and powerful performances, the film is poised to resonate deeply with audiences far beyond the Strip.
For more info and theaters, visit thelastshowgirl.com.