I just went to see this documentary tonight, and I have to say I was blown away. And I'm never blown away by anything or anyone. Valentino has always come across to me as just this overly tanned, overly glamourized creature but in this movie when they describe him as the last couturier, they are absolutely right. Nothing about a Valentino gown is "factory" or "commercial". It's 100% human labor; every last sequin.
In this doc, Valentino reminded me of any elderly man, nevermind whether he's devastatingly rich or just a regular joe; he had the temper of any (European) old man you've ever known but also the sweetness and vulnerability of your very own grandfather.
I have to say that, besides the incredible fashion, the highlight of this film for me was the relationship between Valentino and his partner Giancarlo Giammetti. Their relationship is portrayed in a realistic manner; fighting, ignoring, ridiculing, insulting and all. It's not censored and I found that very refreshing. For a couple who has been together 50+ years, I was expecting to see some harsh reality, some tough love. But also some sweet love.
Every time Valentino teared up in the film, I did too. When I saw the final product of the white gown he was designing, the one he dreamt of and said it would be the collection's best piece, I teared up. When I saw the final fashion show, with guests ranging from Sarah Jessica Parker to Karl Lagerfeld to Diane Von Furstenburg, I cried. It was very moving to me.
Every step of the way in this documentary, I fell harder and faster in love with Valentino Garavani. His mark will be left on the world forever.
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