Burlesque

Burlesque is a 2010 American backstage musical film written and directed by Steven Antin. It stars Cher, Christina Aguilera, Kristen Bell, Cam Gigandet, Stanley Tucci, Julianne Hough, Alan Cumming, and Peter Gallagher, and features cameos from Dianna Agron, and James Brolin. The film tells the story of Ali (Aguilera), an aspiring singer who leaves her small hometown for Los Angeles, where she becomes a dancer at a struggling burlesque lounge owned by Tess (Cher). After a performance is sabotaged by her rival, Nikki (Bell), Ali sings the song herself, impressing Tess and leading to her becoming the main attraction of the lounge. Burlesque marks Aguilera's first leading role, as well as Cher's first musical performance on screen. Burlesque was released in the United States on November 24, 2010 by Screen Gems. Its jazz-inspired soundtrack was released ahead of the film's release on November 19, 2010 by RCA Records and Screen Gems. Aguilera and Cher both contributed to the album. The film received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the cast's performance and the soundtrack but criticized the cliche writing. Despite its mixed reception, the film did modestly at the box office, grossing $91 million worldwide and earning an additional $42 million in domestic video sales. The film earned a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the 68th Golden Globe Awards, where Cher's performance of "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me", written by Diane Warren won the for Best Original Song. The soundtrack received a nomination at the 54th Grammy Awards for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media. Plot Alice "Ali" Marilyn Rose (Christina Aguilera) is a young waitress from Iowa who has dreams of becoming a professional dancer ever since losing her mother in her childhood. After her selfish boss refuses to pay her salary, Ali steals from him and moves to Los Angeles, where she attends many auditions with little success. One night, Ali comes across a burlesque club where its owner Tess Scali (Cher) and an entourage of dancers perform an opening number. Ali also meets songwriter Jack Miller (Cam Gigandet) at the club's bar. Jack refers her to Tess for an audition, but Tess tells her to return another time and her assistant Sean (Stanley Tucci) ushers her out. Upon seeing the waitress shortage, Ali picks up a tray and begins serving.