Paris Is Burning

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.

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

Carmen Xtravaganza

Self

Brooke Xtravaganza

Self