Review of Valentino: The Last Emperor (2008) by David B — 22 Jan 2010

Valentino. The name brings to mind his gorgeous creations, his celebrity clients, and that tanned, serene face. This documentary goes beyond the image into not only who is Valentino, but what he represents.

It starts off with his show in Paris, which many believe is his last. From that point, the film goes back and shows what really goes into making a couture collection. Not just the sketches, and high-flying ideas.

The sweat, the tears and the egos that go hand-and-hand with high fashion. You also see the personal side of Valentino, and his relationship with his partner and lover Giancarlo Giametti. The drama comes from when business clashes with ideas.

The films ends with the retrospective of Valentino's 45-year career. This movie is a must for any fashion follower, and it's quite fun identifying not only the celebrities, but the other fashion designers who make appearances in this film.

Valentino is not only influential, he's inspirational. He's known as the Sun King for a reason: he brings light and beauty to everything he touches.