Paris Is Burning Movie Review 1991

Livingston's documentary portrayal of New York City's transvestite balls where men dress up, dance, and compete in various categories. Filmed between 1985 and 1989, this is a compelling look at a subculture of primarily black and Hispanic men and the one place they can truly be themselves. Madonna noted this look and attitude (much watered down) in her song "Vogue."

Distribution

Facets Multimedia, Inc., 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614, Phone: (773)281-9075, Toll-free: 800-331-6197, Fax: (773)929-5437, Email: sales@facets.org, URL: http://www.facets.org

Available on VHS
Running time 71 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Documentary, Gender Bending, Dance Fever, Gays, African America, New York, New York

Cast

Dorian Corey, Pepper Labeija, Venus Xtravaganza, Octavia St. Laurant, Willi Ninja, Anji Xtravaganza, Freddie Pendavis, Junior Labeija

Cinematography

Paul Gibson

Director

Jennie Livingston

Producer

Prestige Pictures Releasing Corporation, Off White Productions, Jennie Livingston

Awards

Natl. Soc. Film Critics 1991: Feature Doc.; Sundance 1991: Grand Jury Prize.