"Striptease" is a film that has been marred by controversy and criticism since its release in 1996, and for good reason. The movie, which stars Demi Moore as Erin Grant, a single mother who turns to stripping to make ends meet, has been panned by critics and audiences alike for its convoluted plot, lackluster characters, and mishandling of sensitive themes. Despite its promising premise, "Striptease" falls flat in its execution, relying on cheap thrills and exploitative content to drive its narrative forward. The film's attempt to balance comedy, crime, and drama genres results in a jarring viewing experience that fails to resonate with its audience.

The movie's biggest problem lies in its treatment of Erin Grant, a character who is supposed to be a strong and independent woman but is instead reduced to a mere object of desire. Demi Moore's performance is lackluster, and her character's motivations are unclear and often contradictory. The film's portrayal of the stripping industry is also problematic, relying on stereotypes and cliches to drive its plot forward. The supporting cast, which includes Burt Reynolds and Armand Assante, is equally underwhelming, with characters that feel more like caricatures than fully fleshed-out people. The film's tone is also inconsistent, veering wildly from comedy to drama to crime thriller without ever finding a consistent rhythm.

Despite its many flaws, "Striptease" does attempt to tackle some interesting themes, including the objectification of women and the struggles of single motherhood. However, these themes are handled heavy-handedly and without much nuance, resulting in a film that feels more like a shallow exploration of these issues rather than a thoughtful commentary. The film's climax, which involves a convoluted plot twist and a healthy dose of melodrama, is particularly egregious, feeling like a desperate attempt to inject some excitement into an otherwise dull narrative. Overall, "Striptease" is a messy and problematic film that fails to deliver on its promise, and its controversy is more a result of its own shortcomings rather than any bold or daring statement it attempts to make.