Films We Like presents PARIS IS BURNING
Iconic and influential, Paris Is Burning returns to theatres just in time for Pride with a new restoration supervised by director Jennie Livingston, beginning Monday, June 17 at Toronto’s TIFF Bell Lightbox.
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 and 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.
Digitally remastered by the UCLA Film and Television Archive in conjunction with Sundance Institute and Outfest UCLA Legacy Project. Preservation funded by Sundance Institute, Outfest and the Andrew J. Kuehn Jr. Foundation.
About Jennie Livingstone – Director
Jennie Livingston is a groundbreaking filmmaker known for her lively storytelling, nuanced character portraits, and thoughtful explorations of identity, class, race, death, sex, and gender. She works in both fiction and nonfiction. In addition to directing and producing her own films—including the award-winning documentary Paris Is Burning (1990), the shorts Who’s the Top? (2005) and Through the Ice (2006), and the work-in-progress memoir/essay film Earth Camp One—she is a writer, photographer, draftsman and educator.
Films We Like
Founded by award-winning documentary filmmaker Ron Mann (Grass, Comic Book Confidential, Altman) Films We Like is a boutique distributor of documentary, independent and international films in Canada. Recent releases include Nico, 1988, Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood.
Running time: 71 minutes
Download press notes, hi-res photos, trailer
Media Contact
Virginia Kelly - V Kelly & Associates