Fashion Movie Nights: Valentino the Last Emperor

Valentino The Last Emperor (2008) is a behind the scenes documentary about one of the most prestigious fashion designers in the world. 

Truly a must-see for any fashion addict, the documentary is an intimate portrait of couturier Valentino Garavani's extraordinarily glamorous world and an exclusive look at the last collection of his prolific career.

Anyone who is anyone, from Jackie O to Gwyneth Paltrow, has worn one of his exquisite gowns. His signature red designs are aggressively hunted by the well-heeled and fashion-frenzied all over the world.
 

 Above: Acrobats dance in the air in front of the Colosseum at the pre-show before Valentino's last fashion show in 2008.

High Fashion Cred: Valentino's last fashion show, which also celebrated his 40th anniversary as a designer, was a magnificent finale to his respected career.  The larger than life Colosseum, glowing Valentino's signature red, served as the background of the show and the guest list glittered with royals and A-list celebrities.  A beyond opulent exit that other designers will have an impossible time trying to top.  Well done, sir. Well done.

Best Dress: The precise process of couture is revealed in a scene outlining the creation of a pleated white gown.  Valentino's eye for detail is spot-on and the seamstresses adhere to his every whim. The painstakingly perfected dress receives a fleeting moment of glory when a model sashays down the runway wearing the creation during Valentino's finale show.

Most visually stunning scene:  TIE. The finale of models parading down the runway in identical red gowns for Valentino's last show (above).  The pre-show of acrobats dancing in the sky swathed in Valentino crimson while the Colosseum changed colors in the background was not too shabby either (second picture from top).

Above: Valentino cuddling with Maggie, his favorite pug (obviously)

Most unexpected scene stealers: Valentino's six pugs Molly, Minton, Monty, Margot, Maude, and yes, Maggie.  These lovable little furballs run rampant through Valentino's pristine French estate, trampling on couture gowns and generally getting in the way wherever they go.  They have their own butler, only fly private, and have fun little harnesses that allow them to be picked up like purses whenever need be.

 

Substance Score: 7.  Anyone with an appreciation for the arts will enjoy this film.  Valentino also spouts some hilarious soundbites.  "The sand dunes look like two tits," was a gem of a response upon seeing the backdrop for his fashion show (above).






Here's the link to buy Valentino the Last Emperor on Amazon

 FMN celebrates both iconic films that have shaped fashion in a significant way and documentaries offering a behind the scenes look into the fashion industry. In a series of blog posts following our FMN viewing parties, I analyze the impact of each film on fashion.  

If you live in the Indianapolis area and would like information about or an invite to our next Fashion Movie Night please email me at thehautehoosier@gmail.com