‘Showgirls’ Star Elizabeth Berkley Says Cult Classic Was ‘Way Ahead of Its Time’

It was the first NC-17 film to be given a wide release in theaters. While it was critically panned when it premiered in 1995 and is often named as one of the worst films ever made, “Showgirls” maintains a cult following.

“Honestly if I had to play Nomi and go through what I went through in 1995 to give you Nomi I would do it again, again and again,” Berkley said, adding, “Here’s the thing, we are here 30 years later – which is crazy – and you guys didn’t just embrace it, you rescued it. You have elevated it. You’ve made this movie what it is and what it was intended to be and I’m forever grateful.”

Berkley spoke about why she thinks “Showgirls” resonates with so many queer people.

“It’s about vindication, reclamation and it’s about owning our truths and owning our stories and not waiting for someone else to approve it, get it, to validate it, to just own who you are like Nomi and be brave and bold,” Berkley said. “I will forever have your back the way you had mine and I love that this film has brought you joy, too. It was way ahead of its time. Way, way, way ahead of its time. But I am so grateful for you.”

Berkley signed autographs after the screening, with proceeds benefiting The Los Angeles LGBT Center and The Trevor Project.

I'm glad she appreciates the fame it brought her.