COUNTERPUNCH LETTERS : Reactions to ‘Showgirls’ Ignore Some Fine Acting
Regarding the three reactions to “Showgirls” (Counterpunch, Oct. 2), one point seems to have escaped many observers: Elizabeth Berkley gives a cutting-edge performance in this film. In a time when actresses are best advised to play it safe and ensure their earning ability, she has chosen to commit to her character with every fiber of her being, taking emotional chances that are scary to watch. The volatile insanity portrayed just under that beautiful skin is terrible. Her search for truth and life in her character shows this actress as a real artist in a world of nose jobs. Plus, she’s running around naked the whole time!
That’s courage, folks! I couldn’t do it, could you? She’s been criticized as unsympathetic, but she obviously didn’t care to “make nice-nice.” Her character comes off as a psycho because that’s what she is! There’s an actress for you. Can you imagine the problems on the set with agents, managers, phone calls if another actress had the role and wanted to look good or appear sympathetic?
It’s tough to make it in this business and once there, tough to stay. It takes courage and she’s got it. I salute her.
MADISON MASON
Hollywood
Only good movies
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