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Paris Is Burning (1991)

R03/13/1991Documentary1h 18m
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Having a ball… Wish you were here

Overview

Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is throwing shade? This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City's African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene. Made over seven years, PARIS IS BURNING offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion "houses," from fierce contests for trophies to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women — including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza.

Top Billed Cast

  1. Cast 1

    Pepper LaBeija

    Self

  2. Cast 1

    Octavia St. Laurent

    Self

  3. Cast 1

    Venus Xtravaganza

    Self

  4. Cast 1

    Dorian Corey

    Self

  5. Cast 1

    Willi Ninja

    Self

  6. Cast 1

    Paris Dupree

    Self

  7. Cast 1

    Freddie Pendavis

    Self

  8. Sol Williams Pendavis

    Self

  9. Cast 1

    Junior LaBeija

    Self

Set over a seven year period, this follows not just the evolution of a group of 1980s New York African-American and Latino drag artists, but it also shines quite a light on changing societal attitudes as these lively, strong and characterful folk try to assert their own identity amidst a city not always accepting or willing. It’s all about balls - literally and metaphorically, and showcases a community determined not to be ground down by using their exuberant fashions, dancing, extroversion, competitive spirit and overwhelming sense of community to provide each other with strength and inspirat...