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Valentino is a 1977 biographical film directed by Ken Russell, starring Rudolf Nureyev in his first and only acting role as the legendary silent film actor Rudolph Valentino. The film is loosely based on Valentino's life, from his arrival in Hollywood in 1913 to his untimely death at the age of 31 in 1926. The film starts with Rudolph Valentino (Rudolf Nureyev) as a young Italian immigrant in New York, trying to make a living as a dancer. He later moves to Hollywood, where he becomes a popular actor and a sex symbol, starring in movies such as 'The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' and 'The Sheik'.

The film explores Valentino's personal life, including his marriages to actress Jean Acker (Leslie Caron) and costume designer Natacha Rambova (Michelle Phillips), as well as his tumultuous relationship with Hollywood studios and the press.

Valentino is depicted as a complex and conflicted character, haunted by his past and struggling to find meaning in his life beyond his career and his public image. Nureyev gives a stunning performance, bringing grace and depth to the role of the iconic actor, and capturing the essence of Valentino's charisma and magnetism.

The film is also visually stunning, with Ken Russell's signature style and flamboyant cinematography accentuating the glamour and decadence of the golden age of Hollywood. The costumes, designed by Academy Award winner Shirley Russell, are a feast for the eyes, and recreate the era with elegance and attention to detail.

Valentino is not without its flaws, however, and some critics have pointed out inaccuracies in the portrayal of Valentino's life and relationships. Nevertheless, the film remains a captivating and poignant tribute to one of the most iconic figures of the silent era, and a testament to Rudolf Nureyev's versatility and talent as an artist.

In conclusion, Valentino is an engaging and stylish biopic that sheds light on the fascinating life and career of Rudolph Valentino, and showcases Rudolf Nureyev's extraordinary acting abilities. It is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood and silent cinema, and a powerful tribute to a true cinematic legend.

Valentino is a 1977 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.