Thursday, April 16, 2009

Valentino: The Last Emperor (Matt Tyrnauer, 2008)


date watched: April 15, 2009
location: film forum, nyc

Although a documentary, Valentino is more like a love story, with a complete narrative. And sorry, Mr. Valentino, but I think the star of this film is Giancarlo Giammetti. It goes without saying, however, that Valentino is truly the last of the era's haute couture geniuses, and one of the most entertaining personas in fashion/art history, along with Karl Lagerfeld and Salvador DalĂ­.
According to director Matt Tyrnauer, one of the reasons Valentino liked the film was because his dresses came to life, since they are "meant to move." This really is a tribute to his Valentino Reds, and documents all the hands and minds that breathe life into the flowing creations he will always be remembered for. In addition, Giammetti also comes to life, not just as Valentino's "shadow," but as a figure all on his own.

Possibly the best scene is in which Giammetti reveals his honest comment in the back of a car, post-awards celebration: "You look a little bit too tan."
The biggest understatement of the year, certo.

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