Paris Is Burning
“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
- PPepper LaBeija
- OOctavia St. Laurent
- VVenus Xtravaganza
- DDorian Corey
- WWilli Ninja
- PParis Dupree
- FFreddie Pendavis
- SSol Williams Pendavis
- JJunior LaBeija
- AAngie Xtravaganza
Crew
- Director
- Jennie Livingston
- Producers
- Jennie Livingston, Barry Swimar, Madison Davis Lacy, Nigel Finch
- Production
- Off White Productions
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Frequently asked questions
What is Paris Is Burning rated?
Paris Is Burning has an audience rating of 8.0 out of 10 from 559 votes.
Who directed Paris Is Burning?
Paris Is Burning was directed by Jennie Livingston.
When was Paris Is Burning released?
Paris Is Burning was released in 1991.