The Toronto International Film Festival is known for its history of hosting many comeback stories. Two years ago, Brendan Fraser was applauded for his performance in “The Whale.” This year, a surprising comeback story is unfolding with Pamela Anderson. Gia Coppola premiered her indie drama film “The Last Showgirl” at the festival, with Anderson playing the role of Shelley, an aging Las Vegas showgirl. Shelley is the main attraction in a casino dance show that is struggling in attendance, leading her to contemplate her future when the show’s closure is announced by the stage manager, played by Dave Bautista.
Anderson, 57, received a mix of reviews for her performance in the film but was met with warm applause from the audience. Speaking after the premiere at the Princess of Wales Theatre, Anderson expressed that she has been preparing for this role her entire life and felt a strong connection to the character of Shelley.
For Pamela Anderson, known for roles in “Baywatch” and “Borat,” the positive reception at the festival was a new and gratifying experience. She mentioned that receiving a well-written script like “The Last Showgirl” was a first for her, and she felt uniquely suited for the role.
The film continues Anderson’s recent success, following her 2023 memoir “Love, Pamela” and the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary “Pamela, A Love Story.” “The Last Showgirl” shares similar themes with another TIFF entry, “The Substance,” starring Demi Moore, which explores ageism among female entertainers.
In “The Last Showgirl,” Jamie Lee Curtis co-stars as a casino waitress named Annette. Curtis emotionally discussed her character, noting that the movie reflects the harsh reality women face in pursuing their dreams, a reality that men do not experience to the same extent. She also humorously added that a spray tan can be helpful in such roles.
