Film Review | Valentino: The Last Emperor

On the way home from New York yesterday I was browsing Neflix trying to figure out what to watch during the journey. I stumbled upon a documentary, Valentino: The Last Emperor; directed by Matt Tyrnauer. 

The film its self takes place in 2007 to 2008, the Haute Couture designer Valentino is approaching his 45th year with the company. There is to be a huge celebration honoring his work, but with that comes speculation of retirement for the 70-something Italian designer. Also looming is the threat of hostile take-over from the company Permira.

Much of the film was very comical. Weather it was fashion show goers crying over the beautiful collection, his five matching pugs causing mischief, or the seamstresses fighting while hand sewing each gown completely.

 Some of the funniest parts of the movie was with the five little pugs running around. It's funny to see them causing mischief around +10,000 dollar Couture dresses in the studio.

 The juvenile fighting between Valentino and Giancarlo also added to the comical side of the film.

To balance out the comic relief, a serious element was added with the depleting market for Haute Couture gowns and the take-over threat. Also, with rumors buzzing about Valentinos retirement approaching.

The relationship with Valentino's right-hand-man, Giancarlo Giametti is interesting. I'm assuming they started off as business partners, became lovers, and broke things off- yet still keeping work ties.








It was said repeatedly that they spend almost everyday together, so they did fight a bicker through much of the film. However, some moments you could see how close of friends they were and how they built this empire up together.

The last section of the film was dedicated to the extravagant party in Rome held for Valentino's 45th anniversary.

The in house seamstresses should have gotten way more credit for their hard work. Every original piece made by Valentino for a show is hand sewn, every stitch, every sequin, everything. Valentino does not do the sewing, he sketches what is to be done and gives it to the seamstresses. It's incredible how hard they work and for so many years.

Following his party was the very last Valentino collection with Valentino still there as a designer, but the audience doesn't find that out until later.

The most beautiful part was at the end of the film, floating dancers were suspended near they Colosseum  with magnificent lights shone on them. This scene was followed by the end credits which explained that two months later Valentino retired from the company.

Seriously, If you love fashion and want to learn more about an amazing designer, I would watch this film.