Paris Is Burning
Director: Jennie Livingston Run Time: 71 min. Release Year: 1991
Starring: André Christian, Brooke Xtravaganza, Carmen Xtravaganza, Dorian Corey, Paris Duprée
Happy Valentine’s from your Revival Series hosts!
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.
Curated by Janine and Axel of Guermantes Vintage and Strange Desires.
The Revival Series will feature a variety of films from modern selections to obscure, cult and classic cinema with dark themes and strong aesthetics.