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
Octavia St. Laurent
Venus Xtravaganza
Dorian Corey
Willi Ninja
Paris Dupree
Freddie Pendavis
Sol Williams Pendavis
Junior LaBeija
Angie Xtravaganza
Carmen Xtravaganza
Brooke Xtravaganza
Kim Pendavis
Sandy Ninja
Avis Pendavis
Andre Christian
Stevie St. Laurent
Bianca Xtravaganza
Danny Xtravaganza
David Xtravaganza
David Ian Xtravaganza
David the Father Xtravaganza
Fran Lebowitz