Valentino was a 1977 American biographical drama directed by Ken Russell, co-written with Mardik Martin, and starring Rudolf Nureyev, Leslie Caron, Michelle Phillips, and Carol Kane. Loosely inspired by the life of silent film star Rudolph Valentino, it drew on the book Valentino, an Intimate Exposé of the Sheik by Chaw Mank and Brad Steiger. Among its highlights were sequences filmed at the Blackpool Tower Circus and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
The project began in 1975 when producers Irwin Winkler and Robert Chartoff set it in motion, eventually turning to Russell to direct. The narrative was told through flashbacks following Valentino’s death in 1926, focusing on his relationships, particularly with his second wife, Natacha Rambova, and touching upon persistent rumours about his sexuality. Though filming had first been planned for Los Angeles, Russell opted for Spain, Blackpool and Elstree Studios in England to reduce costs. Shooting ran for twenty-one weeks between August 1976 and January 1977. The production was marked by disputes, with clashes between Nureyev and Michelle Phillips over interpretation of the roles, and frequent tension between Nureyev and Russell.
Released in October 1977, the film drew a divided response. Some critics attacked its sharp and sometimes satirical portrait of Hollywood and the studio system, while others praised its visual style and performances. It went on to secure three BAFTA Award nominations, for Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, and Best Production Design.
Apparently, this boxing scene was shot at Blackpool Tower Circus – while the Blackpool Tower Ballroom was used for the audience watching the boxing match. © Alamy
VALENTINO, Rudolf Nureyev, 1977. © Alamy
