While “Burlesque” isn’t lacking in sparkles, sequins or sexy ensembles, it is missing two things that are considered more important than the dazzling frills: good acting and a compelling plot line.
Christina Aguilera’s debut performance on the silver screen leaves viewers wanting something more. Her stage persona fluctuates from overly soft-spoken to unconvincingly emotional.
The worst part about watching “Burlesque” is hearing Aguilera’s obnoxiously fake, cringe-inspiring laughter. This, combined with the forced sweetness in her voice, makes her seem phony.
Nevertheless, her voice is strong and flawless as usual, and a few of her songs are catchy and captivating.
“Burlesque” follows the story of spotlight-seeking Ali (Aguilera), who leaves her job as a waitress in Iowa to seek success in Los Angeles.  On her hunt for a more exciting job, Ali falls upon a burlesque club owned by Tess (Cher).
Though at first she is turned away, Ali is desperate for a stage job. So desperate, in fact, that she picks up a tray and starts taking customers’ orders before being hired.
After impressing Tess with her fabulous dance moves and bodacious voice, Ali moves her way up to a position as the main showgirl on stage.
Ali’s newfound fame garners extra attention from the men at the club, throwing her love life into a predicament.
Her choice is between a well-intentioned bartender, Jack (Cam Gigandet), and a wealthy real estate investor, Marcus (Eric Dane), who wants to buy the club and replace it with condos.
Unfortunately, the story line is predictable, overly cliche and reminiscent of a similar movie: “Coyote Ugly.”
Watching Ali wander around Los Angeles for the first time is like witnessing a confused Barbie doll come alive and open her eyes for the first time.
While the cast includes a host of talented actors, including Stanley Tucci, Kristen Bell and Peter Gallagher, they don’t seem to fit well when combined together for this movie.
For having two well-known singers in the film, the song selection is hit or miss. The film offers some worthy ballads that accurately portray the bold, powerful voice of Aguilera as well as Cher’s coarse, booming vocals. But other songs fall flat.
Far from the sultry, energetic performances in other musicals such as “Chicago” and “Moulin Rouge,” the dance routines in “Burlesque” are too tame and could use a revamping.
The movie does offer a few humorous lines and you’ll probably enjoy it if you’re a big fan of Aguilera or Cher. But if their music isn’t your thing, definitely skip it.
Cher’s acting abilities fit well for the movie. Xtina, on the other hand, should probably stay clear of leading roles and stick to what she does best — singing, dancing and all things dirrty.
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