Directed by:
Jennie LivingstonCinematography:
Paul GibsonComposer:
Takahashi MasanoriVOD (1)
Plots(1)
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. (Criterion)
(more)Cast
![Shari Headley](http://image.pmgstatic.com/cache/resized/w88h116crop/files/images/creator/photos/000/444/444289_ea205f.jpg)
Shari Headley
USA
Best movies:
Coming to America (1988)
Towelhead (2007)
Belly 2: Millionaire Boyz Club (2008)
![Gwen Verdon](http://image.pmgstatic.com/cache/resized/w88h116crop/files/images/creator/photos/105/792/105792677_eda038.jpg)
Gwen Verdon (a.f.)
USA
Best movies:
Marvin's Room (1996)
Alice (1990)
Cotton Club (1984)
![Geoffrey Holder](http://image.pmgstatic.com/cache/resized/w88h116crop/files/images/creator/photos/000/456/456189_650077.jpg)
Geoffrey Holder (a.f.)
Best movies: