On Saturday evening, Elizabeth Berkley made a delightful and unexpected appearance at an LGBTQ Pride screening of her iconic cult film, "Showgirls," as part of Cinespia's grand 30th-anniversary celebration held at the historic Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles.
"Happy Pride! I adore you all beyond measure," Berkley exclaimed, garnering thunderous applause and joyous cheers from the audience. "You have no concept of how deeply I cherish this incredible, fearless, audacious, magical, sensuous, formidable, and resilient LGBTQ+ community."
She went on to say, "You were the first to witness my portrayal before anyone else. You believed in me and in this film long before others did, finding a piece of yourselves in Nomi."
In the film, Berkley portrays Nomi, a hopeful dancer in Las Vegas who initially befriends but is ultimately betrayed by Crystal (played by Gina Gershon), the aging star of the upscale strip show "Goddess." Directed by Paul Verhoeven from a screenplay by Joe Eszterhas, the movie boasts a stellar cast including Kyle MacLachlan, Gina Ravara, Rena Riffel, Glenn Plummer, Robert Davi, and Patrick Bristow.
"Showgirls" was the first NC-17 film to receive a widespread theatrical release. Although it received scathing reviews upon its 1995 premiere and is frequently cited as one of the worst films ever created, it has developed a loyal cult following.
"Honestly, if I had to revisit my role as Nomi and endure everything I did in 1995 to bring her to life, I would do it repeatedly, without hesitation," Berkley declared. "Here we are, an astonishing 30 years later, and you not only embraced but rescued and elevated this film. You transformed it into what it was meant to be, and for that, I am eternally grateful."
Berkley offered insights into why she believes "Showgirls" resonates so deeply with the queer community. "It's a tale of vindication, reclamation, embracing our truths and stories without waiting for validation from others. It's about owning who you are, like Nomi, with bravery and boldness," she said. "I will always support you, just as you supported me. I am thrilled that this film has brought you joy too. It was far ahead of its time—way, way ahead. But I am profoundly thankful for you."
Following the screening, Berkley signed autographs, with the proceeds benefiting The Los Angeles LGBT Center and The Trevor Project. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios, Cinespia's upcoming screenings include "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," "Casablanca," "Top Gun," and more.
