Not a satire, certainly not a shitshow either, just an honest representation of how corruptive and exploitative the industry is. Its extensive, unreserved use of nudity and sexual scenes doesn't stop at being scandalous but go past it to urge the audience to avert their gaze. Showing something is not equal to being something - it can be the exact opposite. Showgirls accomplished this simply by being honest - no preaching, no evasions - the way it's handled is so succinct and effortless it's marvelous to see. And the fact that the leading actress was subsequently dropped by her agent and rejected by others - isn't that the most powerful and ironic vindication of how true the film actually is?