Paris Is Burning
United States • 1990
Director
#1018Criterion Collection →Synopsis
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.
Synopsis
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.
Criterion Closet Picks
(9)
Credits
Crew
DirectorJennie Livingston
CinematographerPaul Gibson
ComposerLynn Geller
EditorJonathan Oppenheim
ProducerJennie Livingston, Barry Swimar
Cast
Pepper LaBeijaas Self
Octavia St. Laurentas Self
Venus Xtravaganzaas Self
Dorian Coreyas Self
Willi Ninjaas Self
