Paris Is Burning

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.

• Jennie LivingstonDirector

• Pepper LaBeijaSelf
• Octavia St. LaurentSelf
• Venus XtravaganzaSelf
• Dorian CoreySelf
• Willi NinjaSelf
• Paris DupreeSelf
• Freddie PendavisSelf
• Sol Williams PendavisSelf
• Junior LaBeijaSelf
• Angie XtravaganzaSelf
• Carmen XtravaganzaSelf
• Brooke XtravaganzaSelf