Cult Classics: Showgirls
Kitsch classic of jagged choreography and gendered power from the maker of Basic Instinct
Arc Cinema
8:00PM
$19.50 Full / $16.50 Concession (+$1.50 booking fee)
11 December, 2026
Cult Classics: Showgirls 11 December, 2026
1995 | R18+ | DCP | USA | D: Paul Verhoeven
The NFSA presents a series of irreverent, Friday night filmic feasts, curated and hosted by drag artist and culture warrior Venus Mantrap.
Cult Classics with Venus Mantrap dives into the world of sharp, edgy films and beloved fan favourites. Each event features a pre-screening live performance by Venus in our beautiful art deco Arc Cinema.
Our Cult Classics screenings are often interactive and always full of laughs and surprises. Leave your serious side at home and enjoy a movie night with a twist. And probably a shimmy.
A young drifter arrives in Vegas dreaming of becoming a showgirl, but she must face fierce competition as she manoeuvers her way into the glamourous Moulin Rouge revue.
A flop on release, Paul Verhoeven’s campy tale of vulgar Vegas has attracted a cult following and praise for its critique of class and gender norms under a trashy veneer.
‘If Showgirls has a message, it’s that the game is rigged for women like Nomi. She thinks she’s climbing the pole but really she’s just spinning round it.’ – The Guardian
Includes pre-screening introduction and live performance by Venus Mantrap.
Arc Cinema
We are situated in the heart of Canberra on McCoy Circuit, Acton, between the shores of Lake Burley Griffin and the grounds of the Australian National University. Just a 10-minute walk from the city and state bus interchanges.
1 McCoy Circuit, Acton, ACT 2601
Film Details
Year
1995
Details
DCP 131 mins R 18+
Director
Paul Verhoeven
Countries
USA