This documentary offers a fond look at world-renowned fashion designer Valentino Garavani. Vanity Fair writer Matt Tyrnauer sits in the director's chair, pulling back the curtains for an all-access tour of haute-couture culture, recording the corporate struggles and runway-set hilarity as Valentino prepares to retire from his clothing empire.
Review 1:
3.5 stars out of 5 -- "Beautifully organized, the film moves seamlessly from Valentino as 'the celebrity,' into the business behind his brand name, the encroaching threat of his company's new owner and the ultimate end of the professional and creative freedom that made it possible for Valentino to 'assume the throne' from which he famously reigned."
Source: Box Office
03/20/2009
Review 2:
3 stars out of 4 -- "VALENTINO: THE LAST EMPEROR is a documentary with privileged access to the legendary designer in his studio, workshop, backstage, his homes, even aboard his yacht and private jet..."
Source: Chicago Sun-Times
03/25/2009
Review 3:
"Some documentaries stick doggedly to their subjects until they find something meaningful. This one, beautifully photographed by Tom Hurwitz, sparkles with significant details from the start."
Source: Wall Street Journal
04/03/2009
Review 4:
"The ceremony and process of the designer's farewell is genuinely moving..."
Source: A.V. Club
04/09/2009