HOLLYWOOD—“Burlesque” is a film of fantasy and Cher is the star of it! In today’s entertainment industry, reality blends in with fantasy. However, when it comes to singer and actress Cher, she’s a genuine star. For almost five decades now this lady has enchanted fans who have watched her grow from a lanky singer on stage to a genuine movie star. This film cements her credentials as a unique entertainer with a blend of sex appeal, which shows no signs of lessening. Christina Aguilera soars in this film as well. She may not be Cher, but she looks beautiful and performs eloquently in the role.
I wasn’t very excited about the film when I first heard about it. After all, what an odd pairing on screen, was my initial impression. Then by the first 30 minutes of the film you are taken into the world of two divas who prove critics wrong. This film is not going to win any Academy awards, but it is a fun-filled spectacular, filled with beautiful images and songs. It’s a holiday film that picks up your spirits and the storyline isn’t bad either. The story picks up as Ali (Christina Aguilera), a small-town girl with a big voice who escapes hardship and an uncertain future to follow her dreams to LA.
Of course it’s no surprise that Cher shows up and she steals the film. Cher showcases her talents as an actress, and perhaps I’m in love with insider stories of Hollywood: what makes the entertainment industry so captivating to young people who come to Hollywood to make their dreams come true. Perhaps it is the dream that Cher embodies from her real life and Aguilera’s singing performance in “Burlesque” that saves the film from mediocre writing? Whatever it is, I wanted to see it again, and maybe I’m in the minority. However, this is a smaller version of “Chicago” or “Moulin Rouge.”
When you are stuffed from Thanksgiving turkey leftovers this weekend, my suggestion is to go to the theater and enjoy a little dessert, Cher style. The film receives Three of Five Stars from this reviewer.
“Burlesque” opened on Wednesday, November 24.
