Overview
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.
Cast
- Pepper LaBeija as Self
- Octavia St. Laurent as Self
- Venus Xtravaganza as Self
- Dorian Corey as Self
- Willi Ninja as Self
- Paris Dupree as Self
- Freddie Pendavis as Self
- Sol Williams Pendavis as Self
- Junior LaBeija as Self
- Angie Xtravaganza as Self