Elizabeth Berkley, known for her role in the 1995 film Showgirls, expressed her gratitude towards the LGBTQ community for the newfound appreciation the movie has received.
Initially panned by critics and a box office failure, Showgirls has since gained a cult following, largely due to the support from the queer community, as acknowledged by Berkley.
During a special screening of the film at the Academy Museum’s David Geffen Theater, Berkley conveyed her heartfelt thanks, stating, “You always believed as did I and for that I’m eternally grateful.” She also mentioned how certain aspects of the film that were once controversial have now been embraced rather than misunderstood.
Showgirls, which was the first major studio release to receive an NC-17 rating for its explicit content, follows the journey of Berkley’s character Nomi as she navigates the world of Las Vegas in pursuit of her dream to become an erotic dancer.
The storyline delves into themes of s**, money, and drugs, intertwining Nomi with unsavory characters along the way.
Securing the lead role in a film directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas, who previously worked on the successful 1992 film Basic Instinct, Berkley had high hopes for her career trajectory post-Showgirls.
However, the movie failed to meet financial expectations, resulting in a string of Razzie Awards and scathing reviews, especially targeting Berkley’s performance.
Reflecting on the harsh criticism she faced in 1995, Berkley recalled the personal attacks and negative press coverage that affected her deeply.
She shared her struggles with the public backlash, including being labeled a “bimbo” in a film that was criticized for making explicit scenes tediously uninteresting, ultimately impacting her professional prospects.
Despite the setbacks and challenges she encountered, Berkley emphasized her gratitude for the film’s resurgence, crediting the LGBTQ community for their unwavering support.
While Showgirls may not have propelled her career as anticipated, Berkley views the experience as enriching, stating, “My soul is deeper and richer for playing her,” expressing her affection towards her fans.
