Kyle MacLachlan Embraces ‘Showgirls’ Resurgence on 30th Anniversary
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As Showgirls celebrates its 30th anniversary, Kyle MacLachlan reflects on the newfound appreciation for the 1995 erotic drama and praises his co-star Elizabeth Berkley for the recognition she is now receiving for her role in the film.
Directed by Paul Verhoeven, Showgirls tells the story of a young woman, Nomi Malone, portrayed by Berkley, who travels to Las Vegas with dreams of becoming a showgirl and dancer. MacLachlan starred alongside Berkley as the seedy casino director, Zack Carey, with Gina Gershon playing the manipulative lead dancer, Cristal Connors.
Initially met with critical backlash and an NC-17 rating, Showgirls struggled at the box office upon its release on September 22, 1995. Berkley, in particular, faced harsh criticism following the film’s debut. However, as the years have passed, opinions on the movie have shifted, resulting in a cult following and newfound appreciation.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE while promoting season 2 of the Prime Video series, MacLachlan expressed his delight in seeing Berkley finally receive credit for her performance in Showgirls. The actor acknowledges that Berkley had faced significant challenges following the initial negative reception of the film.
Despite disassociating himself from Showgirls in the past, MacLachlan now recognises the movie’s impact and the humour it unintentionally evokes, contrary to its original intentions. The film has since gained a dedicated fan base, with memorable scenes becoming iconic in pop culture.
Berkley has taken ownership of her narrative surrounding Showgirls, leading national screening tours and embracing the supportive fan base that has developed around the film. She has boldly declared that she is not a victim and has found empowerment through the love shown by fans despite the film’s initial harsh critiques.
Reflecting on Berkley’s journey since Showgirls, MacLachlan acknowledges the resilience she has shown in overcoming the challenges she faced in the aftermath of the film’s release. He commends her for finding comfort and acceptance in her connection to Showgirls, highlighting her growth and positive outlook on the experience.
Both Berkley and MacLachlan have moved on to new projects post-Showgirls, with Berkley recently appearing as a guest star on the Ryan Murphy-led legal drama, All’s Fair. MacLachlan, on the other hand, has been involved in various ventures, including the successful video game adaptation, Fallout.
As Fallout’s second season unfolds, MacLachlan reveals his excitement for the rich storytelling and immersive world created by the series. He appreciates the complexities of his character and the challenges of portraying a multi-faceted personality within the context of the show.
In conclusion, as Showgirls reaches a milestone anniversary, the journey of its stars, particularly Elizabeth Berkley and Kyle MacLachlan, serves as a testament to resilience and growth in the face of adversity. The film’s revival as a cult classic showcases the enduring impact of storytelling and the power of reclaiming one’s narrative in the entertainment industry.