Paris Is Burning

Paris Is Burning (1991)

Having a ball… Wish you were here

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.

star 8 8.2 82 98%
  • Release Date: 1991-03-13
  • Runtime: 1h 18min
  • Director: Jennie Livingston

Where to Watch Paris Is Burning Online

You can now watch Paris Is Burning online on the following streaming services in the United States.

  • Trailer

    Cast

    • 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

    • Kim Pendavis

      Self

    • Sandy Ninja

      Self

    • Avis Pendavis

      Self

    • Andre Christian

      Self

    • Stevie St. Laurent

      Self

    • Bianca Xtravaganza

      Self

    • Danny Xtravaganza

      Self

    • David Xtravaganza

      Self

    • David Ian Xtravaganza

      Self

    • David the Father Xtravaganza

      Self

    • Fran Lebowitz

      Self (archive footage)

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