Valentino
Director: Ken Russell
Actors: Rudolf Nureyev, Leslie Caron, Michelle Phillips
PlotIn the early 1920s, a young Italian immigrant named Rudolph arrives in the United States with dreams of becoming a star. He struggles to make ends meet as a taxi dancer and takes on various odd jobs before catching the eye of influential figures in the burgeoning film industry. With charisma and good looks, he lands small roles in silent films, drawing attention for his unique screen presence. As his fame begins to rise, Rudolph encounters a variety of lovers and friends, all of whom both support and challenge him in different ways. His journey is marked by professional triumphs and personal conflicts, including a stormy relationship with actress Natasha who plays a significant role in his life. Through hard work, persistence, and undeniable talent, Rudolph climbs the ladder to stardom, eventually becoming one of Hollywood's biggest heartthrobs.
As Rudolph's career skyrockets, so does the scrutiny and pressure from the public and media. He faces intense rumors about his personal life and sexuality, and his tumultuous relationships and lavish lifestyle only add fuel to the fire. Struggling to balance his personal desires with the demands of fame, he finds himself caught in a whirlwind of scandals and emotional turmoil. The extravagant Hollywood parties, eccentric personalities, and shifting loyalties characterize both the glamour and loneliness of his life at the top. Amidst this chaos, Rudolph continually battles to define himself beyond his screen persona, seeking greater artistic fulfillment while navigating the volatile entertainment industry.
Writers: Ken Russell, Mardik Martin, Brad Steiger
Release Date: 04 Oct 1977
Runtime: 128 min
Rating: R
Country: United Kingdom, United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
While 'Valentino' stumbles in delivering a provocative narrative, Kino Lorber's Blu-ray excels with strong A/V quality and compelling extras.
Read our review of Valentino Blu-ray to find out more