Channel 4 (UK) Documentaries

Elizabeth Taylor: Auction of a Lifetime (2012x14)

Air date: Apr 18, 2012

This feature-length documentary explores Elizabeth Taylor's extraordinary life story through some of her most precious possessions, which feature in landmark auctions in New York and London. With exclusive access to Christie's, the film brings to life the excitement and frenetic bidding at the auctions as millions of pounds are bid for the 'Crown Jewels of Hollywood', some of which sell for 50 times their pre-sale estimates. Each item of jewellery, art and haute couture provides a springboard into a key period of Hollywood legend Taylor's life. The documentary opens a fascinating window into her character and her relationship with jewellery. Interviews with the people central to Taylor's life bring into focus what motivated her, her obsession with diamonds, and the fabulous and tumultuous lifestyle she had on and off screen. Interviewees include Joan Collins, Liza Minnelli and Mickey Rooney, and also her favourite jewellery and fashion designers - Bulgari, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Dior and Valentino - who created many of her extraordinary outfits. Filmed in London, Paris, Rome, New York and Los Angeles, the film visits locations synonymous with Taylor, including The Dorchester in London and The Ritz in Paris. Interviewing people who have never before spoken about their relationship with Taylor, this documentary tells the definitive story of her life and why diamonds really were one of her best friends.