I love Coco Before Chanel, the new film by Anne Fontaine. Audrey Tatou brings new life to this legendary heroine of modern fashion. How fascinating to witness her early years as she effortlessly rewrites her history to insure her future. Alessandro Nivola, as Boy Capel, the debonaire Englishman who sweeps Coco away to Deauville for her first glimpse of the sea, is the picture of "tall, dark and handsome". He steals her heart and bankrolls her empire. The climactic fashion show is a breathtaking couture lover's fantasy. The stunning tableau of the models descending the famous staircase at Rue Cambon with the smoking Coco perched atop is unforgettable. A must see.

Website here.

Playing now: Valentino: The Last Emperor. I was enthralled. This documentary truly gives you a view of the life of Valentino and the dying art of Haute Couture. Valentino is among the last of an exclusive breed of couturiers, whose career has spanned an incredible 45 years. This film follows his day to day life and the production of his 45th Anniversary Haute Couture collection. The viewer is afforded a peek into the extravagant lifestyle of the legendary designer. I loved watching the seamstresses in his couture atelier produce ethereal dresses with his effortless direction. I felt like I was in attendance at his 45th Anniversary celebration at the Temple of Venus in Rome.

My favorite element of the film is the relationship between Valentino Garavani and his partner Giancarlo Giammetti. They have been together as lovers, friends and business partners over the course of 45 years and in Mr. Giammetti's estimation, they have spent no more than two months apart in total. That is an amazing story in and of itself. They chat and fight like any friends or lovers, at one point, Giancarlo tells Valentino that he is "too tan". Really? ;)

I also loved watching Valentino's five pugs get the star treatment wherever Valentino finds himself: Rome, Paris, Gstaad, Venice, etc.

Please don't miss this film.

The movie website.