Entertainment
Showgirls: A Glittery Dive into the 90s
Elizabeth Berkley: From Teen Idol to Showgirl
Before diving into the neon lights of “Showgirls”, let’s talk about its star, Elizabeth Berkley. Known to many as the sweet, smart Jessie Spano on the teen sitcom “Saved by the Bell”, Berkley’s leap into the role of Nomi Malone was nothing short of bold. Swapping her teen idol image for the risqué and raw world of Las Vegas showgirls, Berkley took a gamble that stunned her fans and critics alike. This transition marked a significant turn in her career, shedding her squeaky-clean image for a much more mature and controversial role. It was a move that had everyone talking, and still does to this day.
As for her career – this film tanked it. The movie was such a box office bomb it was like an imploding star – turning into a massive black hole that ruined all it could gobble up. It took many years for Berkley to eek out primarily minor tv roles.
The Plot: A Tale of Ambition and Betrayal
“Showgirls” takes us into the glittery yet gritty world of Las Vegas showbiz. We follow Nomi Malone (Berkley), a young woman with big dreams and a mysterious past. She’s determined to rise to the top as a showgirl, but the path is anything but straightforward. Think backstabbing, fierce competition, and a dash of romance – it’s a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
Kyle MacLachlan’s Performance: A Missed Step
Kyle MacLachlan, known for his roles in “Twin Peaks” and “Dune”, steps into the glitzy world of “Showgirls” as Zack Carey, the entertainment director of the Stardust Resort and Casino. However, his performance in this film is, to put it mildly, a bit off the mark. It’s almost as if the charm and subtlety he brought to his other roles decided to take a vacation. His portrayal of Zack often feels stiff and unintentionally comical, making some of his scenes more cringe-worthy than captivating.
Still Sassy and Shocking?
When “Showgirls” first hit the screens, it was all about the shock value. With an NC-17 rating, it was bold, daring, and unapologetically sexual. But here’s the tea: in today’s world, where we’ve seen everything from “Game of Thrones” to “Euphoria,” “Showgirls” feels almost tame in comparison. Sure, it’s still risqué, but it’s not quite the scandalous sensation it was back in the day.
Who’s Going to Love It?
This movie is a must-watch for those who love a good dose of 90s nostalgia. It’s perfect for a girls’ night in, especially if you’re into movies that mix drama with a hint of campiness. And let’s not forget the fashion – those costumes are a glittery dream! If you’re someone who appreciates a film that’s so bad it’s good, “Showgirls” won’t disappoint.
Critics vs. Cult Classic
Let’s be real: “Showgirls” was shredded by critics. But here’s the twist – it’s become a cult classic. It even became one of MGM movies top selling home videos. It’s one of those films that’s so over-the-top, it’s become beloved for its very flaws. And that’s the magic of “Showgirls” – it’s a film that’s unafraid to be bold, brash, and utterly outrageous.
Rating: Does It Deserve the Hate?
So, here we are, at the end of our glittery journey. Was the NC-17 rating fair? In the 90s, maybe. Now? It’s a bit much. Does it still shock? Not really, but it entertains. Did it deserve to be panned? Perhaps not as harshly. “Showgirls” is a time capsule of the 90s, a film that captures the excess and ambition of the era. It’s not Oscar-worthy, not even close, but it’s a fun, nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Till next movie night, Kelly.