VALENTINO: THE LAST EMPEROR
Starring: Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti
Directed by: Matt Tyrnauer
Unrated
By John Delia
Interestingly enough this documentary peaked my interest with some excellent footage of the great designer. Valentino: The Last Emperor follows the life of the most prolific fashion designer in Italy who built himself an empire; and because it is more like a reality show than a boring biopic, I was captivated by the content. If you enjoy documentaries that get to the heart of the subject, then this flamboyant film is for you.
The documentary was made as a feature-length movie that takes the viewer inside the singular world of one of Italy’s most famous designers, Valentino Garavani. The film documents the colorful and dramatic closing act of Valentino’s celebrated career, tells the story of his extraordinary life, and explores the larger themes affecting the fashion business today. In production from June 2005 to July 2007, the filmmakers shot over 250 hours of footage with exclusive, unprecedented access to Valentino and his entourage.
The film touches on Valentino’s personal love life with his friend and partner Giancarlo Giammetti who helped him build the empire. In a very touching moment, Valentino singles Giancarlo out as the power behind his success. Several scenes show Valentino’s closeness and conflicts, with Giancarlo being the peacemaker for most of Valentino’s unconventional behavior with the documenters and the Valentino line franchise owners.
The flamboyance of the shows, the passion for designing of the clothing, the hand sewing of each piece, the six dogs that travel with him everywhere, his amazing chateau, apartments and opulent villas throughout the world are all depicted in the hour and half film.
You don’t have to be a female or into fashion shows to enjoy this film, but it helps. The dresses are superb, the runway shows are luxurious and the back stage prep amazing.
FINAL ANALYSIS: A fairly good entertaining look at one of the kings of fashion. (2.5 of 5 Palm Trees)