What's Happening?
NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour revisits the film 'Showgirls' on its 30th anniversary. The movie, starring Elizabeth Berkley as a Vegas dancer, was initially released as an NC-17 film and was considered a commercial failure. Directed by Paul Verhoeven, 'Showgirls' has since gained a cult following and is viewed as a camp classic. The film's narrative follows Berkley's character as she attempts to transition from performing in a seedy club to a prestigious hotel show. Despite its initial reception, 'Showgirls' is now recognized for its commentary on the entertainment industry and the moral panic it incited at the time of its release.
Why It's Important?
The retrospective on 'Showgirls' underscores the evolving perceptions of media and cultural artifacts over time. Initially dismissed, the film's re-evaluation highlights how societal values and artistic interpretations can shift, allowing for a broader understanding of its themes. This shift in perception reflects broader trends in how audiences engage with controversial media, offering insights into the changing landscape of film criticism and cultural discourse. The film's journey from flop to cult classic exemplifies the potential for media to be reinterpreted and appreciated in new contexts, impacting how future works might be received.
