Paris Is Burning (1991)

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.

Watch the trailer

Where to watch

Stream

• HBO Max Amazon Channel
• Criterion Channel
• HBO Max

Rent

• Apple TV Store
• Fandango At Home

Buy

• Apple TV Store
• Fandango At Home

Streaming availability via JustWatch

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

If you liked Paris Is Burning, try

• JFK
• John Candy: I Like Me
• Obi-Wan Kenobi: A Jedi's Return
• The Perfect Neighbor
• Whitney
• I Am Not Your Negro
• Hunger
• Sidney