If you’re a fan of documentaries and LGBTQ+ culture, chances are you’ve heard of “Paris Is Burning”. This iconic film explores the ball culture of New York City in the 1980s and has been credited with bringing the underground world of drag balls and voguing to mainstream attention. But the question remains: is “Paris Is Burning” available on Netflix?
The Short Answer: No, “Paris Is Burning” is not currently available to stream on Netflix.
While this may be disappointing news for some, there are still plenty of ways to watch this groundbreaking documentary. Let’s take a closer look at what “Paris Is Burning” is all about and where you can find it.
What is “Paris Is Burning”?
“Paris Is Burning” was directed by Jennie Livingston and released in 1990. The film takes viewers inside the world of New York City’s drag ball scene, where participants compete in a variety of categories such as Vogue Fem, Butch Realness, and Executive Realness. The balls provided a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves and showcase their creativity through fashion, dance, and performance.
Through interviews with participants and footage from the balls themselves, “Paris Is Burning” offers a poignant look at what life was like for marginalized communities during this time period. The film also explores themes such as racism, homophobia, poverty, and gender identity.
Where Can You Watch “Paris Is Burning”?
While “Paris Is Burning” may not be available on Netflix at the moment, there are still several ways to watch this classic documentary:
- Amazon Prime Video: If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, you can stream “Paris Is Burning” for free.
- iTunes/Apple TV: You can rent or buy “Paris Is Burning” on iTunes or Apple TV.
- Google Play: Similar to iTunes, you can rent or buy “Paris Is Burning” on Google Play.
- DVD/Blu-ray: If you prefer physical media, you can buy “Paris Is Burning” on DVD or Blu-ray from various retailers.
Why Isn’t “Paris Is Burning” on Netflix?
Unfortunately, there’s no clear answer as to why “Paris Is Burning” isn’t currently available on Netflix. Licensing agreements and streaming rights can be complicated, and it’s possible that the film’s distribution company simply hasn’t made a deal with Netflix at this time.
However, it’s worth noting that “Paris Is Burning” has been the subject of controversy in recent years. Some critics have accused the film of appropriating and exploiting ball culture without properly compensating or crediting its participants. Others have pointed out that Livingston is a white woman who may not have had a full understanding of the cultural implications of her documentary.
Despite these criticisms, “Paris Is Burning” remains an important historical document and a powerful piece of filmmaking. Whether you stream it online or purchase a physical copy, this documentary is definitely worth watching if you’re interested in LGBTQ+ history and culture.