Paris Is Burning

Paris Is Burning

Released on
Documentary
Runtime
78 mins
(464 votes)

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

  • Pepper LaBeija
  • Octavia St. Laurent
  • Venus Xtravaganza
  • Dorian Corey
  • Willi Ninja
  • Paris Dupree
  • Freddie Pendavis
  • Sol Williams Pendavis
  • Junior LaBeija
  • Angie Xtravaganza
  • Carmen Xtravaganza
  • Brooke Xtravaganza
  • Kim Pendavis
  • Sandy Ninja
  • Avis Pendavis
  • Andre Christian
  • Stevie St. Laurent
  • Bianca Xtravaganza
  • Danny Xtravaganza
  • David Xtravaganza
  • David Ian Xtravaganza
  • David the Father Xtravaganza
  • Fran Lebowitz

Director

  • Jennie Livingston

Producers

  • Jennie Livingston
  • Barry Swimar

Screenwriter

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