Paris Is Burning

Documentary

1991, Movie, 1h 18min

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—PARIS IS BURNING brings it, celebrating the joy of movement, the force of eloquence, and the draw of community.

Country: United States

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Ratings

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IMDb rating

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8.2

Critic rating

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6.0

Reviews

Critic Patrick Peters

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...a sobering insight into the aspirations of a doubly excluded sub-class...

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Frequently asked questions

What is Paris Is Burning about? Toggle content

Paris Is Burning is a documentary that delves into the 1980s drag scene in Harlem, New York, spotlighting the vibrant community of African American and Latinx drag queens, trans women, and voguers. The film offers an intimate portrait of the lives of these individuals, exploring their struggles and triumphs amidst a world filled with homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Through fierce fashion competitions and house mothers offering support, the documentary shines a light on the resilience and creativity of this marginalized community. Featuring legendary figures such as Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza, Paris Is Burning provides a snapshot of a unique and extraordinary culture that continues to inspire generations.

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You can stream Paris Is Burning on: Mubi

What movies are similar to Paris Is Burning? Toggle content

Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as Paris Is Burning include Louvre City, Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse, Stormchasers, The Diary of Jack the Ripper: Beyond Reasonable Doubt?, The Reconstruction, Powaqqatsi.