Review of Paris Is Burning (1991) by Furqan S — 27 Aug 2007
10 points for exuberance! This movie is a pointed look into a subculture in gay ghetto. Funny, irreverent yet sad at the same time, this documentary follows impoverished black and hispanic gay men whom transcend their place in this world (being a minority within a minority) by the power of their own imagination with their grace, "fierce" meter and general fabulousness.
Instead of street gangs, they have their own houses (ie the House of Xtravaganza/the House of Ninja). Instead of fighting, they have 'vogueing balls,' where the houses gather to have a dance off, called the vogue, emulating poses of high fashion models in spreads. Madonna, the ever ready cultural plunderer and pillager, takes this new dance form and introduces it to the world. Whether homage or exploitation, the characters of this documentary have become stars in their own right. This is a must- watch for those interested not only in the evolution of gay life but of humanity itself. Respect.
This review of Paris Is Burning (1991) was written by Furqan S on 27 Aug 2007.
Paris Is Burning has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
