(This article is sponsored by Pacific Northwest Pictures.)

Since strutting from his humble beginnings in the segregated American South, André Leon Talley has firmly established his status as one of the most influential people in the world of fashion.

Charting his journey from the pews of the church of his childhood to the FROW of the world’s catwalks, director Kate Novack’s latest documentary The Gospel According to André, gives an intimate portrait of the man behind the icon.

From answering phones at Andy Warhol’s Interview, to his ground-breaking work at publications like Women’s Wear Daily, W, and Vogue, Talley’s story proves that even when it seems like the odds are against you, you can achieve your dreams.

During the course of his colourful career, Talley has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion including Anna Wintour, Marc Jacobs, and Tom Ford—all of whom make guest appearances in this documentary. But to this day, he credits his grandmother for teaching him the importance of having elegance and grace.

More than just a fashion documentary, The Gospel According to André delves deep into American cultural history, giving a timely and poignant look at attitudes toward people of colour.

“He [Talley] is one of the very first African American men to have a position of visible importance within the fashion industry. We have a long history of African American performers in front of the camera, but many fewer behind the camera shaping the images we see,” says Novack.

The Gospel According to André is an inspiring must-see for anyone looking to be uplifted by the unique and fascinating story of a legend.

“I’ve opened my heart and my soul and my life,” says Talley. “And I am a very private and shy person, although I come off as a very flamboyant person. I use clothes as armor, clothes are my security blanket and my clothes and outfits are my armor against the world of the chiffon trenches.”

Enter now for your chance to win tickets for you and a friend to see The Gospel According to André opening at Cineplex International Village on Friday (May 25), and a cap from Brunette the label.