Paris Is Burning

United States of America

• R
• 1991-03-13(US)
• ▪

  Documentary
• ▪ 1h-18m

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.

• Jonathan OppenheimEditor

  Jennie LivingstonProducer

  Barry SwimarProducer

  Natalie G. HillProduction Manager

  Lynn GellerMusic

  Jennie LivingstonDirector