Men of the Cloth

Watching Men of the Cloth is like watching genius in action. The mastery of the art of tailoring is so ingrained to the three featured tailors that they literally live the art. The film is emotional as we realize the tremendous sacrifice each makes to become a master and how total dedication was required to achieve mastery. While we admire the results of the years it takes to acquire the knowledge and skills, we are reminded that there will be a growing loss of this as the masters retire and pass on. A young man who desires to become a tailor is given the opportunity to work with a master, and spends four years learning and watching, but eventually leaves to pursue a more commercial approach to tailoring because that allows him the freedom to attempt what he watched. A small handful of young men are enrolled in a tailoring school in Italy that brings them in while still teenagers, similar to the traditional model of beginning training while very young. The gap isn't being filled in educational institutions who are limited to offering programs from 2-4 years in length and that have to meet student and market demand. What will become of the art of tailoring?

Who would want to see a film about three custom tailors? Those who themselves are tailors or sewists, certainly. But people who have never picked up a needle and thread will enjoy the film as well. This is not a film about bespoke suits; it is is a film about character, craftsmanship and artistry. It is a film about perseverance and patience. It is, above all, a film about excellence. The viewer will take away a new appreciation for what we are losing in our quest for the new, the cheap, the fast. The pride that these tailors take in their creations is well-earned. The joy that their customers take in their investment in fine clothing is evident. There is beauty in this film, and it brought tears to my eyes.

Men of the Cloth is the moving story of the unfortunately disappearing art of tailoring. I come from an entirely not fashion/tailor/clothes-anything related background and I have to say this film held my attention throughout every single minute.

I was moved to tears following the stories of these committed, hardworking, and talented gentlemen as they discussed their passion for the craft and their stories of growing up with a needle and thread in their hands.

On another note (I come from a filmmaking background) I was impressed with the direction of the film, watching the men talk about their passion with a garment in hand or while fixing a suit so delicately. I understand how difficult it can be to interview "regular" people about their passion, while putting them in front of the camera. Not only did they seem comfortable on film, but even as English as a second language, everything they had to say was clear and kept me as an audience member on the edge of my seat. I felt for them, and cared about them, and cared for the tailors' clients and felt pride watching as the clients walked away from their shops in beautiful hand tailored suits.

As a professor of historic dress for over 25 years, I must admit that "Men of the Cloth" has opened my eyes to the art and craft of tailoring. The passions and incredible talents exhibited in the film, by each master, is both moving and completely inspiring. The film also brings to life the rich history associated with developing design skills that go beyond ordinary into extraordinary. The relationship between tailoring and artistic drive is well documented and adds another dimension to this wonderful and important film that celebrates a threatened art within the field of design. The content is warm, engaging, informative and provides a thread of hope that the master craft of traditional tailoring will continue in the future. Be sure to have tissue on hand when viewing "Men of the Cloth" as it is impossible not to shed tears.

The preservation of craft and the stories around it are both relevant and fascinating. this film tells the story of several master tailors, separated geographically, but united in mastery of the craft. It honors the dedication and skill required to be a master tailor, and highlights both the loss and in some cases the resurgence of the craft. The film breaks down the complex series of steps required to produce a custom made suit of high quality. Following the practice of three master tailors who eloquently express their fear for the future of the craft, and the loss of skills in a generation not interested in taking the time to apprentice. A thoroughly worthy film, and an enjoyable watch.