Paris Is Burning

Synopsis

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.

Trailer

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Cast

• 

  Pepper LaBeija
  Self

• 

  Octavia St. Laurent
  Self

• 

  Venus Xtravaganza
  Self

• 

  Dorian Corey
  Self

• 

  Willi Ninja
  Self

• 

  Paris Dupree
  Self

• 

  Freddie Pendavis
  Self

• S

  Sol Williams Pendavis
  Self

• 

  Junior LaBeija
  Self

• 

  Angie Xtravaganza
  Self

• 

  Carmen Xtravaganza
  Self

• 

  Brooke Xtravaganza
  Self

• 

  Kim Pendavis
  Self

• S

  Sandy Ninja
  Self

• 

  Avis Pendavis
  Self

• A

  Andre Christian
  Self

• S

  Stevie St. Laurent
  Self

• B

  Bianca Xtravaganza
  Self