The Scene: Fashion's Last Emperor

If you're looking to watch something chic this Thanksgiving weekend, check out the fashion documentary film about the life of the designer of Valentino. 

Filmed just before he left the label in 2008, the documentary film boasts drama, drama and, dare I say it, more drama. Called Valentino – The Last Emperor, it takes a look at the colourful and dramatic closing act of his celebrated career and capturing the end of an era in global fashion.

However, at the heart of the film is a love story - the unique relationship between Valentino and his business partner and companion of 50 years, Giancarlo Giammetti. It captures intimate moments in the lives of two of Italy's richest and most famous men and lifts the curtain on the final act of a nearly 50-year reign at the top of the glamorous and fiercely competitive world of fashion.

For the uninitiated, Valentino is one of the last designers whose couture was handmade. It was reported that his many assistants and seamstresses never touched a sewing machine. Basically, Valentino designs, they make the dresses. In the film, Valentino is the creative wellspring, the man whose intricate demands have to be satisfied. And he is not easily satisfied. Watch how Antonietta de Angelis, the head seamstress of the house, work her magic on the individual pieces. She also has some of her boss's imperious temperament and knows that anything less than perfection is unacceptable. 

So, do yourself a favour this weekend. Go out and rent Valentino: The Last Emperor. Or watch it online.