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
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
Carmen Xtravaganza
as Self
Brooke Xtravaganza
as Self
