Cher Drops Bombshell: ‘Burlesque’ Was a ‘Not a Good Movie’

In a candid revelation that adds to the growing trend of stars criticizing their own work, Cher has openly shared her disdain for the 2010 musical film Burlesque. The legendary singer and actress did not mince words when discussing her experience with the movie in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

A Disappointing Performance

Cher, who played the role of veteran burlesque dancer Tess, the owner of a Los Angeles club, expressed her dissatisfaction with the film. “It wasn’t a good film,” admitted the 67-year-old icon. “It had a few good moments, but I didn’t even like my performance that much. What, I don’t have a brain? I’m old but I’m still pretty on top of everything.”

This blunt assessment might come as a surprise to fans of the movie, which rode the wave of the burlesque revival in popular culture. Despite its star-studded cast, including Christina Aguilera, Julianne Hough, Kristen Bell, Eric Dane, Alan Cumming, and Stanley Tucci, Burlesque did not live up to Cher’s expectations.

Critics Echo Cher’s Sentiments

Critics at the time of the film’s release echoed Cher’s disappointment. Michael Phillips of the Chicago Tribune remarked, “The choicest dialogue in Burlesque provokes the sort of laughter that other, intentionally funny films only dream of generating.” Meanwhile, the late Roger Ebert offered a more generous perspective, stating, “Burlesque shows Cher and Christina Aguilera being all that they can be, and that’s more than enough.”

Despite these mixed reviews, the film did have its moments of charm and spectacle, largely due to the performances of its leading ladies. Cher’s portrayal of Tess, while not her favorite, showcased her enduring talent and charisma, while Christina Aguilera’s role as the small-town girl Ali brought a fresh, youthful energy to the screen.

Joining the Chorus of Criticism

Cher is not alone in her recent self-criticism. This week, Sandra Bullock also made headlines by denouncing two of her film sequels, Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous and Speed 2: Cruise Control, labeling them as ‘horrible’. This trend of stars critiquing their past work offers a refreshing honesty and perhaps a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in filmmaking.

The Legacy of ‘Burlesque’

Despite Cher’s harsh critique, Burlesque holds a unique place in the hearts of many fans. The film’s vibrant musical numbers and the dynamic between Cher and Aguilera remain memorable highlights. The movie also contributed to the resurgence of interest in burlesque performance art, bringing it back into mainstream conversation.

Cher’s comments serve as a reminder that even the most seasoned performers can be critical of their work. It highlights the ever-present challenge in the entertainment industry to meet personal and public expectations. While Burlesque may not have been the critical success Cher had hoped for, it remains a testament to her willingness to take risks and explore new creative avenues.