Valentino is one of the most iconic and influential women’s fashion designers of the last fifty years. This year the world was honored with the release of the first documentary delving behind the scenes into the life of a legend, and “the man behind the throne”. Valentino: The Last Emporer will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you want to get a pug.
Director Matt Tyrnauer, Giancarlo Giammetti, and Valentino at the premiere.
The director, Matt Tyrnauer, was gracious enough to come to the Academy and discuss the blood and sweat that went into making his first film. Tyrnauer has been a journalist with Vanity Fair for 17 years, and first became intrigued by Valentino when he was dispatched to Rome to do a story on him in 2004. The Last Emperor has been a project almost two and a half years in the making, with over 270 hours of footage that was shot. First premiering at the Venice Film Festival, it is an independent film, and as Tyranuer puts it, “an observational film…into the greatest partnership in fashion history.”
"The 5 M's" always travel in style.
And, no I’m not talking about the dogs, although they are as much a part of Valentino’s life, and the film, as is fashion. I’m referring to Giancarlo Giammetti, Valentino’s business partner and companion for over 45 years. Truly a patient and loyal man, Giancarlo is the bread to Valentino’s glamorous apple butter. And as much as Valentino hates to admit, he is not the sole star of the film, as Giancarlo emerges as the rock behind the empire. As Oprah stated, this film is “a love story,” a passionate and emotional look into what it takes to make a relationship last the test of time.
Valentino and Giancarlo debating over the infamous "white dress"
Valentino: The Last Emperor is now showing in over 30 cities around the globe, and soon to be released on DVD with loads of hilarious extra footage. The ultimate diva himself, a genius of “couture royalty,” Valentino finally takes center stage, just where he belongs.
Watch the trailer and clips at www.valentinomovie.com
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