Paris Is Burning poster

Paris Is Burning (1991)

"Having a ball… Wish you were here"

8.019911h 18mEN
Documentary

Directed by Jennie Livingston

Rating

8.0/10

Runtime

1h 18m

Language

EN

Release

March 13, 1991

Director

Jennie Livingston

Official Trailer

Trailer thumbnail

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 ...

Cast

Pepper LaBeija

Pepper LaBeija

Self

Octavia St. Laurent

Octavia St. Laurent

Self

Venus Xtravaganza

Venus Xtravaganza

Self

Dorian Corey

Dorian Corey

Self

Willi Ninja

Willi Ninja

Self

Paris Dupree

Paris Dupree

Self

Freddie Pendavis

Freddie Pendavis

Self

Sol Williams Pendavis

Sol Williams Pendavis

Self

Junior LaBeija

Junior LaBeija

Self

Angie Xtravaganza

Angie Xtravaganza

Self

Carmen Xtravaganza

Carmen Xtravaganza

Self

Brooke Xtravaganza

Brooke Xtravaganza

Self

Introduction

In this latest movie review, we dive deep into Paris Is Burning (1991), exploring its intricate plot and standout performances that have everyone talking.

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.

🛑 Story ExplainedSpoiler Warning

Our story explained section breaks down the complex narrative of Paris Is Burning. The full story follows a progression that challenges typical tropes, leading to a climax that requires careful analysis.

🏆 Final Verdict

5 / 5 Stars

A triumphant piece of cinema that blends gripping narrative with breathtaking visuals.

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