The Burlesque Assassins

A visit to the enchanting world of burlesque cabaret, which became famous in the 50s, becomes the centerpiece of story-telling in the unique and daring film, The Burlesque Assassins from 2012. A movie that fuses comedy, action, and musical genres, this cinematic piece brings together a colorful and royal cast including the talented David A. Crellin, the charismatic Roxi D'lite, and the vibrant Carrie Schiffler.

The film is set in the Cold War era, where tensions build and threats mount, yet the allure of escape and joy that forms the soul of burlesque performance provides a backdrop against which our story unfolds. The plot revolves around a quartet of burlesque dancers who are more than what meets the eye, their provocative performances on stage only half their story. Employing their allure and talent, these women are silent and deadly operatives in the service of freedom, tasked to eliminate key oppressive figures in the clash of superpowers.

The film opens with David A. Crellin's character, Johnny Valentine – a world-weary and battle-hardened retired agent, who has been bestowed with the daunting task of assembling a group of extraordinary women. These women will not just captivate audiences with their sultry performances, but will also be instrumental in changing the tide of the Cold War. As the world stands on the edge of nuclear annihilation, the stakes could not be higher.

Roxi D'lite, renown as the queen of burlesque, brings an enticing level of authenticity, juxtaposing glamour and danger as one of these lethal agents. She presents her graceful moves and the power of seduction as weapons just as deadly as a sniper's bullet. Coming from a background of real-life burlesque, Roxi brings a veritable credence to her role, skillfully layering her character with depth and versatility.

Carrie Schiffler brings an additional star power to the ensemble with an astounding and memorable performance. Her character is a fascinating mix of deadly grace and raw emotional agility which adds a different hue to the colorful tapestry of the film. Just like her competent co-stars, she presents a multi-faceted character that breaks the trope of the typical femme fatale.

Desirous to not just entertain but educate the viewers on the historic and artistic richness of burlesque, the film makes significant headway into encapsulating the spirit of the era. Director Jonathan Joffe has done an impressive job combining the elements of an espionage thriller with the positive female empowerment found in burlesque. The film exponentially balances the sense of vintage nostalgia and high-octane action sequences creating a rare blend of Burlesque and James Bond themes.

The film successfully delivers a variety of captivating performances, from tantalizing dance routines to heart-stopping moments of tension. The heart and soul of the burlesque community are laid out for viewers to appreciate, in all its glitzy, glamorous, yet scholarly historical glory. While the film thrills with its espionage angle, it's the careful, heartfelt homage to the art of burlesque that forms the bedrock of this movie.

While the film’s storyline might sound unconventional, it's this unorthodox approach that makes it wonderfully refreshing. The Burlesque Assassins is a salute to a golden era, drawing its viewers into the seductive world of burlesque and lacing it with moments of spy-themed suspense and comic relief.

The brilliant performances from the entire cast, the sight of the suspiciously beautiful agents carrying out their deadly missions, and the vigorous burlesque performances are guaranteed to keep viewers hooked throughout the duration of the film. From the luxurious costumes to the ambient set designs reminiscent of the period, everything about this movie is aesthetically pleasing.

In the end, The Burlesque Assassins shines not simply as a period piece or spy-thriller but as a celebration of a treasured art form. It's a must-watch for those who enjoy a different take on historical events as much as for fans of the craft of burlesque. So, get ready to delve into a world where glamour meets suspense, history meets mystery, and where the stage becomes a battleground in the most seductive way possible. The Burlesque Assassins is ready to take your breath away with its electrifying fusion of thrill and tease.