VALENTINO: THE LAST EMPEROR (USA 2008) **
Directed by Matt Tyrnauer

VALENTINO: THE LAST EMPEROR as the film is titled would be expected to reveal the life or at least the works of Valentino Garavani, the legendary designer in the wake of his retirement from the company he founded 45 years back.

But director Matt Tyrnauer, a special correspondent for Vanity Fair magazine concentrates instead of Valentino’s last act - his retirement from the company and the elaborate celebration with all his loyal staff doting over him like a God.  Though the footage is claimed to be taken from over 250 hours of film, the glamour appears to be the only element deemed important in this one-sided documentary.

Nothing much is uncovered of the man’s early life, except the fact that he loves the wardrobe of Hollywood stars in the old movies.  Unsurprisingly, the most interesting parts of the film are the segments that hint of problems with his long term business partner, Giancarlo Giammetti and the politics of the business.  Of course, the gorgeous people are great to look at, but ultimately a hollow feeling is left when nothing solid is revealed.  Tyrnauer’s film runs out of steam fast with a long boring middle.  The climax of the film is beautifully shot models wearing luscious gowns and suspended in mid-air but for no apparent reason for such a lengthy segment.  Those interested in or are in the haute couture industry will definitely find this film more bearable than others.

When interviewed on the reason of his profession, Valentino Garavani confesses that people, like himself just want to be beautiful.  Just as the star designer celebrity has surrounded himself with beautiful people and beautiful things, Tyrnauer has filled his film with beautiful people, beautiful sets, beautiful wardrobe and other beautiful things.  Unfortunately, these things do not necessarily make a beautiful film.