Synopsis: Mike Lane takes to the stage once again when a business deal that went bust leaves him broke and bartending in Florida. Hoping for one last hurrah, Mike heads to London with a wealthy socialite who lures him with an offer he can’t refuse — and an agenda all her own. With everything on the line, he soon finds himself trying to whip a hot new roster of talented dancers into shape.
Editing: Mary Ann Bernard
Music: Season Kent
Cast: Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek Pinault, Ayub Khan Din, Juliette Motamed, Vicki Pepperdine
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Reid Carolin
Cinematography: Steven Soderbergh (as Peter Andrews)
The world was first introduced to Mike Lane in 2012’s Magic Mike, a film that took us inside the world of male strippers. Directed by Stephen Soderbergh, the film proved to be a financial and critical success, boosting star Channing Tatum’s career considerably and spawning a 2015 sequel, Magic Mike XXL, directed by frequent Soderbergh producer Gregory Jacobs. Now, eight years later, Tatum is back playing Magic Mike one last time in this film initially intended for HBO Max but now gracing cinemas.
Mike Lane (Channing Tatum) has left his stripping days behind and is working as a bartender at parties and charity events after shutting down his furniture business due to the pandemic. After one of these events, he’s summoned by organizer Maxandra Mendoza (Salma Hayek Pinault), who’s heard about Mike’s dancing past and asks him to perform to take her mind off a recent separation. The ensuing dance inspires Maxandra, and she soon whisks Mike to London to help direct a stage play at a theatre she owns, incorporating his style of dancing.
In the opening moments, Mike is recognized by a woman who once hired him for a sorority performance in the first film. She’s now grown with a stable job and relationship — a telling moment as this entry feels more grown-up and mature. Closer in tone to the original, the film is more sensual and intimate than showy and beefcake-heavy. As one character says, “there’s nothing sexier than knowing you’re the only one.”
A key part of why this film feels so intimate is the relationship between Mike and Maxandra. The romance isn’t breaking new ground, but it’s elevated by Channing Tatum and Salma Hayek Pinault, who could charm even the coldest hearts — easily the most interesting relationship Mike has had in the series. While Tatum has leaned comedic recently, this reminds you how hilarious Hayek Pinault can be, with several laugh-out-loud line deliveries. Also great are Jemelia George as Maxandra’s teenage adopted daughter Zadie, and Ayub Khan Din as Victor, Maxandra’s long-serving butler and frequent scene-stealer.
One element Dylan and I enjoyed in the first two films on our WDYWW Spoilercast is the camaraderie between Mike and his Kings of Tampa friends. This film is unfortunately void of those friendships; none of the stage-play dancers even have character names, credited only as “The Dancers.” The middle act lags because you only truly care about Mike, Maxandra, Zadie, and Victor.
For many, the movie’s success hinges on the quality (and heat) of the dances. I’m no expert, but I was impressed. The opening and closing performances are incredible, with a rain-soaked stage number that’s a series highlight. I particularly appreciated the workshopping of a routine set to “Permission” by Ro James, which showcases how subtle changes make a big difference. Note: this plays more like a modern dance film than a stripping film — most dancers come from contemporary backgrounds and keep their pants on. There’s still plenty of shirtlessness, but it reflects the film’s evolved, more mature vibe.
If this truly is Magic Mike’s Last Dance, it’s an enjoyable final chapter for Mike Lane. With a charismatic central couple and impressive set pieces, it’s sure to please fans — even if it isn’t as young or as rowdy as it once was.
Ashley Hobley attended an advance screening of Magic Mike’s Last Dance thanks to Warner Bros. Australia and Event Cinemas.
