I had heard this film was terrible. It isn't. I mean it has flaws but it's always interesting. Even the fact the film ends with Valentino in a box match a la Rocky and it was made by the producers of Rocky is interesting.
Rudolph Nureyev is Valentino and does okay. He's got the looks, the build, can dance, has charisma. Russell protects him - he shoots him dancing, with his clothes off, strutting around. It's effective.
As a movie buff I enjoyed seeing representations of Jean Acker, Nijinsky, June Mathis (Felicity Kendall), and various executives.
Michelle Phillips is his main wife. She's beautiful (naked in one scene) but not as effective. Slightly miscast, I felt. However the film is best when focusing on their relationship. The story loses it when she disappears.
Leslie Caron pops up as Nasimova. The last act of the film is odd. Up until then I was having a good time watching this. Ken Russell films are always interesting.
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