Samsung hosts Emperor screenings

MANILA, Philippines - Samsung Electronics and Zee Lifestyle Magazine recently paid homage to revered designer Valentino Garavani with strictly-by-invitation-only screenings of Valentino: The Last Emperor, the feature-length film chronicling the life and career of the living legend, culminating in his last two years before he made his final bow in the grand and glittery world of fashion in 2008, exiting from the company he founded in Rome more than 45 years ago. Three exclusive exhibitions were scheduled in the country’s three key cities — Manila, Cebu and Davao.

Valentino: The Last Emperor, currently being screened and receiving praises from around the world, is a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion world, presenting unprecedented access to the high temples of haute couture. The larger-than-life Valentino is, of course, the star of the film, along with his long-time business partner Giancarlo Giammetti.

The film follows them in the final two years of their careers, and shows the struggles the two men faced as they confronted the final act of a nearly 50-year career at the top of the world’s most glamorous and competitive game. The struggle of art against commerce is at the center of the film. In the end, however, the story proves to be not one about money or expensive clothes, but about love, which all the more touches and captures the hearts and imaginations of audiences.

The movie event was truly one big celebration — first, of the life and brilliance of one of the most successful designers synonymous with glamour and royalty; and second, of excellence in craft and fervent adherence to originality, creativity, artistry and inventiveness.

For Samsung, taking part in hosting the chic affair is its own way of being one with the world in celebrating all these, particularly with the latter as it likewise reflects and advances these qualities in all its products, particularly in its recently-launched Samsung Jet and Samsung LED Full High Definition TV.

Prior to the actual screenings, the distinguished guests were presented and given exciting hands-on experience with the latest and hottest in Samsung’s breakthrough products.

 The guests had a wonderful time marveling at and getting their hands on the Samsung products and experiencing first-hand the technological innovations of the Jet and the LED TV.

The Manila screening was held at the Cinema 1 of Greenbelt 1 and on hand to meet and greet the VIP guests were Samsung executives Glenn Glinoga, Fe Varilla, Coco Domingo, Mylene Gabriel, Stephanie Chua and Odette Velarde. Cherie Gil, Boy Abunda and Bianca Gonzales, Project Runway hosts Teresa Herrera and Jojie Lloren were some of the stars who came.

Samsung’s collaboration with Zee Lifestyle Magazine in showing Valentino: The Last Emperor truly was a success and an event to remember.