'Almost Human: Madonna on Film' festival celebrates bad acting

She's made it big in music, but acting is not her strong point. After a promising start with "Desperately Seeking Susan," music diva Madonna's acting career took a nose dive. "Almost Human: Madonna on Film" is a comedic tribute to the five-time Golden Raspberry Award winner for worst actress.

The festival, tonight through Jan. 4, will highlight Madonna's atrocious acting each Monday at Central Cinema. Film introductions and a running commentary will be provided by host and local writer and performer David Schmader.

Films earning Madonna a Golden Raspberry Award that are featured in the festival are:

"Shanghai Surprise," tonight. A romantic comedy and adventure set in 1930s China starring Madonna and Sean Penn.

"Who's That Girl," Dec. 14. A slapstick comedy about a parolee who sets out to clear her name.

"Body of Evidence." Dec. 21. An erotic thriller starring Madonna, Willem Dafoe, Anne Archer and Julianne Moore.

"The Next Best Thing," Dec. 28. A gay-parenting drama turned courtroom thriller earned Madonna her fourth Golden Raspberry award for worst actress.

"Swept Away," Jan. 4. A remake of an Italian art film about a well-to-do woman on a cruise ship who is marooned on an island with a crew member she had been feuding with.

Laurie Dunlap: ldunlap@seattletimes.com