I actually studied documentary-making as part of my Master of Arts degree many moons ago and a love for that medium has stayed with me. When a documentary is done well it can be just, if not more, rivetting and entertaining than a fictional feature film. (And one day I hope to make another documentary - yes, it's on the long list of my to-do list.)
This weekend I watched Valentino: The Last Emperor and laughed at the so-honest-advice-it-could-only-come-from-a-partner by Giammetti. I cried when Valentino took his last bow. I marvelled that the seamstresses in his atelier had once received a sewing machine but NEVER used it, and so stiched every single haute couture garment by hand. I picked my jaw up off the floor when seeing Valentino's numerous homes in Paris, Rome, London, New York and Gstaad. I was saddened that finance has taken over fashion, and that the skills that went into making Valentino's gowns will be lost. And I felt resolved to work harder and be as focussed as this legendary designer.
I was also blown away that this was the first feature by Matt Tyrnauer, whose words I've read many times in Vanity Fair. It is a must-see film.
images courtesy of valentino: the last emperor
5 comments:
sounds fantastic, natalie. i will definitely go based on your recommendation. and i couldn't agree more about documentaries, when done well they are a rivetting medium. i can still conjure images or ideas from many i have watched over the years. be well. x
Well I am normally not in the business of promoting my place of employment on blogs, but I do feel the need to share this with you! The Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane will be holding an Australian exclusive Valentino exhibition from August this year.
The exhibition was designed by Les Arts Decoratifs, Paris, directly with the Valentino fashion house. I'm sure it will be worth a trip to Queensland for fashion enthusiasts!
http://qag.qld.gov.au/exhibitions/coming_soon/valentino_retrospective
I agree. I was fortunate enough to see this screened at our local college with the film maker present for a question/answer session. It was amazing.
Will definetly have to watch that Natalie, I love documentaries, & Valentino will definetly be an inspiration! Elaine :)
So any of you had a chance to watch it yet???? You must!
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