Paris Is Burning

1991 78 min ★ 8.0 Documentary

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.

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Cast

Pepper LaBeija

Self

Octavia St. Laurent

Self

Venus Xtravaganza

Self

Dorian Corey

Self

Willi Ninja

Self

Paris Dupree

Self

Freddie Pendavis

Self

Sol Williams Pendavis

Self

Junior LaBeija

Self

Angie Xtravaganza

Self

Details

Director

Jennie Livingston

Tagline

"Having a ball… Wish you were here"

Status

Released

Original Language

EN

Budget

$500,000

Revenue

$3,906,006

Production

Off White Productions

Reviews

C

CinemaSerf

May 8, 2025

★ 7/10

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 comm...