When Was Paris Is Burning Filmed?

By Robert Palmer

Paris is Burning is a groundbreaking documentary film that explores the vibrant ball culture of New York City’s LGBTQ+ community in the late 1980s. The film showcases the voguing phenomenon, which originated in Harlem’s ballrooms and became a symbol of self-expression and identity for queer people of color.

But when was Paris is Burning filmed? Let’s dive into the history.

The Filming of Paris is Burning

Paris is Burning was filmed throughout 1987 and 1988, primarily in New York City’s ball scene. The film was directed by Jennie Livingston, who started working on the project in 1985 after attending a few balls herself.

The Ball Scene

The ball culture in New York City was a safe haven for queer people, particularly those who were black or Latinx and faced discrimination from mainstream society. Balls were extravagant events where attendees would compete in categories such as “voguing,” “butch queen,” “femme queen,” and “face.” Participants would dress up in elaborate costumes, perform choreographed dances, and strike poses to impress the judges.

The Impact of Paris is Burning

When Paris is Burning was released in 1990, it received critical acclaim and introduced audiences to an underground world that had never been seen before. The film shed light on issues such as racism, homophobia, poverty, and HIV/AIDS that affected queer people of color during that time.

Paris is Burning also popularized voguing as a dance form and inspired Madonna’s hit song “Vogue.” However, some critics have pointed out that the film exploited its subjects by not compensating them for their participation or giving them proper credit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris is Burning was filmed between 1987-1988 in New York City’s ball scene. It became a groundbreaking documentary that brought the ball culture to mainstream audiences and shed light on the experiences of queer people of color. Despite some controversy, the film’s impact on pop culture and LGBTQ+ visibility cannot be denied.