
Plot
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
Cast

Pepper LaBeija
Self

Octavia St. Laurent
Self

Venus Xtravaganza
Self

Dorian Corey
Self

Willi Ninja
Self

Paris Dupree
Self

Freddie Pendavis
Self

Sol Williams Pendavis
Self

Junior LaBeija
Self

Angie Xtravaganza
Self

Carmen Xtravaganza
Self

Brooke Xtravaganza
Self

Kim Pendavis
Self

Sandy Ninja
Self

Avis Pendavis
Self

Andre Christian
Self

Stevie St. Laurent
Self

Bianca Xtravaganza
Self

Danny Xtravaganza
Self

David Xtravaganza
Self

David Ian Xtravaganza
Self

David the Father Xtravaganza
Self

Fran Lebowitz
Self (archive footage)