Backdrop image for movie Paris Is Burning

Paris Is Burning (1991)

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.

  • Documentary

Top billed cast

  • Photo of Pepper LaBeijaPepper LaBeijaSelf
  • Photo of Octavia St. LaurentOctavia St. LaurentSelf
  • Photo of Venus XtravaganzaVenus XtravaganzaSelf
  • Photo of Dorian CoreyDorian CoreySelf
  • Photo of Willi NinjaWilli NinjaSelf
  • Photo of Paris DupreeParis DupreeSelf
  • Photo of Freddie PendavisFreddie PendavisSelf
  • Photo of Sol Williams PendavisSol Williams PendavisSelf
  • Photo of Junior LaBeijaJunior LaBeijaSelf
  • Photo of Angie XtravaganzaAngie XtravaganzaSelf

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