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80% Critic Match
Paris Is Burning
“Having a ball… Wish you were here”
8.0 / 10• 1991• 1h 18m•R• English
DocumentaryHistory
Storyline
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.
Cast & Crew
Pepper LaBeija
Self
Lead
Octavia St. Laurent
Self
Venus Xtravaganza
Self
Dorian Corey
Self
Willi Ninja
Self
Paris Dupree
Self
Freddie Pendavis
Self
SW
Sol Williams Pendavis
Self
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Jennie Livingston's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
4.0
“Every frame feels alive. Paris Is Burning is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
