I’m 23 and a lesbian. I was disowned by my family at 18. I can tell you now. This is very much so still a thing and I had to fight tooth and nail... still do for respect, care, love and a seat at the table. I turn 24 next month. I still think about it every single day. I just wanted to go to college, fall in love, etc... but it’s ok. We work for the life we want. Best to anyone else out there going through the same.
I'm so sorry that happened to you -- it really speaks to your strength that you endured what must have been an incredible difficult experience. I hope you're connected with chosen family that can support you now!
@@thetwilightzone2403 Please, there is no pressure. Do it only when you feel safe and know that even if your family disowned you, you would not suffer from hunger or homelessness or lack of sacurity.
Watching Venice Extravaganza talk about her dreams for the future, only to learn at the end of Paris is Burning that she had been murdered, really shook me. I have seen so many other documentaries that either focus on homicide, or have homicide come up as a topic, and none have upset me the way Paris is Burning did. I think it was because I had no knowledge of the documentary when I watched it, so to go from footage of someone who seemed genuinely sweet just living their life, to the prologue announcing their murder, reminded me of just how random and cruel the world can be.
It still makes me so angry that Venus didn't have a better life. She's so sweet and funny and deserved so much more. Not to mention there are so many other people like her that we just don't know about because they weren't in a documentary.
It wasn't just Venus, I can personally tell you because I was there. There was also MISS Chloe and MISS Michael and many others that suffer the same and worse fates! That was just a part of our lives! I miss the old days but I would never want me or anyone else to relive that time period in history, I'm very fortunate to make it to this point alive and well.🤷♂️
When I first saw Pb in theatre, yes Venus was a shock, she lived a life style I was familiar with and knew of many Drag Friends who where murdered, and killer never found. Brought the sadness back to me.
How she died was just so violent and heartbreaking. She suffered... and the family had to talk to her biological family because they were so estranged..
In Paris is Burning, the part where the man explains how black people strive to be the white man, was so touching, painful, well shot and well narrated. I don't quite understand how people think it's not a social commentary. Of course the desire to be like your oppressor is problematised in the movie. The whole movie is about marginalized people, so I don't know how someone would misinterpret that as a positive feat.
Frankly, the first time I watched, I couldn't remember anything but that bit. I felt like it was going on, and on, and on when it was just a couple minutes. Because it's painful. And I'm white.
@@corbanekarel3692 I noticed that too and have seen Paris Is Burning. This video is framing its topic more towards the younger generation of LGBTQIA people. People who often go with the hashtag of #nothingaboutuswithoutus-where if you have a movie about ballroom for example? The writers and directors too must have to have been part of ballroom. When Paris Is Burning was made? Just the idea that such a docu existed had a deep significance. Now today, we've had that more modern expansion of representation with Pose, which is very much based on Paris Is Burning of course. I personally have no anger at all that the people who made this docu weren't actually part of ballroom at the time. Am happy that an LGBTQIA person actually made the film. It opened the door for LGBTQIA writers, directors and actors to tell their side of the story. Which interestingly, isn't greatly different than Paris Is Burning-aside from the point of view. It isn't that different really.
Black and people of color are marginalised INSIDE their own culture. To this day. In my country white people are much more liberal about that. For decennia. It's bizarre how ignorant queer people are today.
I always knew that Gingrich was a horrible person but watching that clip of him talk about how people with aids should be “dealt with” is chilling. My uncle had aids. Instead of die of it he killed himself when I was 4 years old. He didn’t die of aids. He died of loneliness, being ostracized, and a lack of empathy.
The video isn't even about it but Crystal LaBeija's bit in The Queen is still just so wonderful. Seeing that kind of fierce outrage and bravery to demand equality within a group that was treated as less than by everyone else was amazing.
@@MattBaume Longer, really. It exists in pretty much every species that reproduces sexually in some manner. It was certainly part of the lives of our pre-human ancestors as well.
Interesting fact: The extreme and hateful responses towards the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis was part of what inspired Alan Moore to write V For Vendetta.
Sorry but no. Moore himself said that it's not based on any real world even. But recurring themes that Acura thought out history. anarchy vs fascism. Which plays a larger role in the story.
@@BloodylocksBathory oddly enough Alan Moore is not really a political writer. It's really story about everything. Even Neil Gaiman is more political than Moore is. And Gaiman is no political writer. But it's still a good story.
"If you shoot an arrow and it goes real high ...Hooray for you." I love that Dorian Corey quote! Thanks Matt for posting this video! You're an asset to the Lgbtq community. 🌈❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
I first saw the film when I was in university as part of a course on gay men in film and media. That was 25 year ago and it was already a hugely important work. It wasn't perfect but at the time it was a revelation.
It is a super important record! But it's just one time, one place, one group of people, as seen by one crew. There's lots more resources to learn from today.
True that Jennie Livingston couldn’t film all drag balls at the same time but that’s like criticizing Leonardo Da Vinci for only painting Jesus and The apostles and Mary and not the rest of the characters in the bible. Like any piece of art, we can only capture a moment and not the entire history that goes along with it. And the fact that the film happened to be entertaining AND also very well done (come on, those white text on black background moments are iconic) is a testament on the filmmakers’ artistic talent-the fact that the director happens to be white is almost non-consequential to the end product’s quality.
@@RichardHannay really bro...that's the euphemism you wanna use? I could get mad that Da Vinci painted Jesus white and not Middle Eastern So do you really wanna go there?? My friends were taken advantage of..period. The only people who feel great about it were people who weren't taken advantage of. White people never want to say "damn that was fucked up". Y'all always wanna make excuses. At this point...everything y'all have done in society is fucked up. Yes..even things y'all like. Stop trying to find a silver lining in things. Sometimes shit is just fucked up.. You started the statement knowing it was fucked up. Only white people think youre whiteness has nothing to do with shit. Mat said it at the beginning of the video. When marginalized people express that something is not a positive don't try to debate them on it. Just because you don't see a problem...not only does NOT mean that there is NOT a problem...it also NOW MEANS that you are a PART of the problem. The group of people who think "nothing is wrong"
Paris was required viewing when I came out. I accidentally came out in 90, was homeless shortly after, and lived in the world of drag bars and crash pads of queens in MI. That moment in time was at the AIds epidemic peak, and for free lunch I volunteer worked at places, including a hospice for Aids patients where a pal of mine lived (the notorious Ms Rusty Springs, a bartender and ex biker who homaged the comedy of Rusty Warren in drag. Eventually I wound up working in one of the oldest drag bars in MI (the Club 67) and it seemed like, for awhile, I knew every queen in every house, from every background imaginable, occupying every place on the spectrum of human identity, gender and sexuality. How we loved that movie...because so little in that era was frank and honest...and when there was a little publicity, it was focused on someone white...and while I and many of my friends were white...the scene we existed in was NOT monochromatic...it was lively, diverse, welcoming and better for it. Seeing a film that showed more of our culture than the bits Hollywood was comfy with was like a breath of fresh air. It looked like the people we knew, and the way we lived, leaning on each other to survive when the regular world had no use for us. Until a few years ago, I almost never spoke of the funerals, or the bedside visits at hospitals, or the friends whose names were added to the AIDS quilt one by one. It was like a wound that was sealed over so deep but with the poison still inside. Letting it out hurts almost worse than living with it quietly in memory. Mostly, just grateful so many of us did manage to live to now...chiefly owed to safe sex ed orchestrated by volunteers (with zero help from Uncle Sam...an absence we have never forgotten, or forgiven). Now it seems relevant to let it all out, to make it recorded and remembered before all those wonderful and terrible things slip away unremembered. Thats why I love your channel. It does what I see as profoundly important...an archive of a history that otherwise might be lost. Thank you!
As a (mostly) straight, white 35yo male, I have to say I really look forward to your videos to teach me things I would never have learnt otherwise. I'm doing my best to help in a world which is seemingly trying to bring down everyone except for people like me, and it hurts my soul to know that people suffered and are suffering so badly for it. I just wanna love everyone, why is that so hard for some people? Once again Matt thank you for your hard work. I love your videos and they always leave me feeling like I've learned something important.
That's a wonderful sentiment, not all that realistic but you do have your heart ❤ in the right place. But sadly you're looking at a fight that you're not in and don't know anything about.
@@RatAndRaven sorry about that. Just because I been having some trouble with everything that's been going on doesn't mean I get to take it out on anyone else. Thanks for being so sweet and kind. Like I said you have a good heart.
Yes steve canalis the creator def used a few storylines from PB since since those things actually happened during the time where pose is supposedly happening and we’re actual issues (candys murder, elektras body In the closet) etc
Dear Matt Baume, I don't know if you'll ever get the chance to read this but I just wanted to write this to say thank you for making these videos about gay culture, particularly this one. I was really hesitant to watch these videos about Paris Is Burning, so hesitant, in fact, that I literally have had them in my 'Watch Later' for a YEAR! I usually am so excited for your videos but the subject of Paris Is Burning hits very close to home. Living in Seattle, particularly in the suburbs when I was 14, this movie was introduced to me by my godmother who noticed I was obsessed with the song Vogue...well, more obsessed with Madonna having just discovered her. This movie though, made me feel so seen and understood in more ways than one. However, most white gay folks I've met, seemed trivialized it and made it more like this comedy; not understanding its significance, hence why I put off watching your video on this because these people have been apart of my everyday and make my life worth living fully as a black gay man. Whenever I have felt sad or broken even hopeless, this film has brought more joy and hope and awakened my mind to so many parts of myself I would've hidden had I not seen this film. Anyway, to see how you've researched, admitted your privilege and just overall handled the film with care makes me so happy and the fact that we are from the same city even more proud. These videos are always the highlight of my week so this LONG message is just my way of saying thank you so much for being a light in the interwebs. Sincerely, Andrew
Omg this is so random but I'm in the background in the LEGENDARY clip @ 16:02 with my green dashiki and big afro and I was just not expecting myself to see myself in a video ahah I'm GAGGINGGGG But more over, I really like your video and as some1 who is in ballroom culture AND is in the ICONIC house of Escada AND I participate in walking in balls(butch queen face and all American runway) I really like ur video and how detailed it was and the certain clips used but yes thank you on the behalf of ballroom culture!!💚🦚
Oh that's awesome! I'm so jealous that you got to be there, it must have been AMAZING. And thank you for liking the video, it really means a lot to have praise from a member of the House of Escada!!!
@@MattBaume OMG YAAAAAASSSSS I should do a video of my experience and I'm also in the next 2 episodes of LEGENDARY haha!!! And yes I love how careful and concise u are and it really means a lot!! I mean hey let's do an interview ahhhhhahaahaah🤣
Just a fun fact: C+C Music Factory's album "Gonna Make You Sweat" has an unlisted track that mixes vocals from "Paris is Burning" into a dance song. Some of the lines used are "throwing shade" and "we're not going to be shady, but fierce."
It was over ten years before I knew Madonna didn't invent vogueing. And some people still don't know it. So, no the black people from Paris is burning are still mostly unknown and really didn't leave any marks whatsoever. Unless you count helping to make Madonna famous.
I would also highly recommend the Vice series “My house”, where we see intricate and very personal stories of upcoming legendary children from different houses. And talking about “Legendary”, unfortunately that show had a great opportunity to showcase the Ballroom culture but preferred to focus on the competition and brought together a group of very untrained Jury members, with the exception of the iconic Leiomy Maldonado (the only one who actually deserved to be a Jury)
In 1991 there was a guy that liked me, and when I didn't return his affection he called my parents and outed me. I was kicked out of the house. The drag queens took me in and showed me what chosen family is all about. I reconciled with my parents shortly after, but I always appreciate my queens helping me through the rough patch.
Thanks for posting this. I remember seeing this movie when it came out in theatres and being blown away. I think bell hooks' critique is a little off the mark. Back then terms like "white privilege" weren't in common parlance and only used among a very tiny group of academics. However, Jenny Livingstone points to the white privilege throughout the entire movie. I loved the line, "In every commercial you see on TV, everyone is in their own home. The pool is in the back. They aren't in an apartment in a concrete jungle." And "Category is school: college, high school...not here."
So great to see this and really appreciate all the links to other pieces on the history of ballroom. Thanks so much. FYI - currently Paris is Burning is only streaming on iTunes and available to purchase on DVD and Blu-ray via The Criterion Collection. This newest re-release from Criterion came out a few months ago and it is incredible. It is a New 2K digital restoration, supervised by director Jennie Livingston (restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in conjunction with Sundance Institute and Outfest UCLA Legacy Project). The Blu-ray/DVD extras include a new conversation between Livingston, ball community members Sol Pendavis and Freddie Pendavis, and filmmaker Thomas Allen Harris; over an hour of never-before-seen outtakes; audio commentary from 2005, featuring Livingston, ball community members Freddie Pendavis and Willi Ninja, and film editor Jonathan Oppenheim; the episode of The Joan Rivers Show from 1991, featuring Livingston and ball community members Dorian Corey, Pepper LaBeija, Freddie Pendavis, and Ninja; an essay by filmmaker Michelle Parkerson and a 1991 review by poet Essex Hemphill; and a new interview with yours truly speaking as a queer film historian about the significance of the film. Okay, last thing I want to mention is that the 1967 short documentary, Queens at Heart (which I unearthed many years ago and which was also restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in conjunction with the Outfest UCLA Legacy Project) features amazing footage from a 1967 NYC drag ball, as well as interviews with four incredibly eloquent trans women talking about what it was like at that time. It is viewable via Kanopy for free with a library card or via my Vimeo On Demand page for $2.99. vimeo.com/ondemand/queensatheart
I think you made a great point at the end there. You're not in the particular scene, but you're still giving people an introduction with the hope that we'll do the leg work to learn more from people more involved. I think that's something a lot of people forget about, is that sometimes it's okay for people outside the scene to use their influence and reach to introduce people to something. No, the director of Paris is Burning wasn't a person of color who performed in the houses. But, she did bring her skill and ability to introduce people to a concept they weren't aware of and try to show the people she cared about as just that, people, in a time they weren't always looked at that way. It's one of the most frustrating things I hear when people try to look back at history, at pivotal moments like this, and go "but it wasn't created by the most marginalized person in the room at the time!" As a way to dismiss its value. Like yes, I agree that those people should be the ones getting the biggest spotlight and to talk the most. But change isn't made in one sudden swoop, it's done in bits and pieces by slowly getting people acclimated to a new idea. The easiest way for that to happen, sometimes, is for someone in a place of privilege or power to use their influence to introduce something new, important, or overlooked. And I think we forget that sometimes. You giving us great ways to hear from the people who truly know is the best thing you can do. I've been introduced to a piece of history I didn't know about, by you in your place of privilege, and now I can dive deeper into it through the people who are more deeply involved.
Matt's videos are always entertaining and a learning opportunity. He is always sensitive and caring about his subjects. Just love him. I've learned so much from him. I hope he is having the best life!
It's sad how the intro to this video sounded like you were talking about 2020, not 1987 - not much has changed in 33 years. Happy Pride Month to you all, much love, and stay safe! 😘❤🧡💛💚💙💜🤎🖤
Houses weren't just NYC. I was in a small house where I am right in the mid-late 80s. Though I didn't dance or "walk" in public. They knew I was trans even as I was shrinking away from the identity and wandering back in the closet. I've really been trying to think of that era's happy parts, through the sheer terror of it washes out so much of it. Though one advantage I have is passing white (I made a video on that, talking about it for the first time mere months ago.)
The lawyers among us recognized the name of Bowers. He was the named defendant, after prosecuting Hardwick, in the case that decided it was constitutional to outlaw gay sex in the 1980s, a ruling not overturned until 2003 with Lawrence v. Texas.
Yes indeed -- Newt Gingrich comes right after him, but I was startled to see Bowers in the mix as well. A complicated guy who many years later lent his talents to advancing equality.
Madonna wasn't the first one who promoted vogue in main stream, in 1989. Malcolm McLaren had record "Waltz Darling" dedicated to ball room culture, and lyrics of songs were directly referencing whole subculture
This is a truly excellent Culture Cruise. I love the ballroom scene and I’ve always been an outsider looking in; but I’ve been very inspired, emotionally and artistically. I think you did an extraordinary job of giving a good overview of the past and present as well as it’s relevance and greater meaning. I’d never thought about how Crystal Labeija set about a revolution that would save lives. I think that’s the most beautiful and important legacy a person can leave.
Not sure if you write your own scripts, but your delivery is truly spectacular. I'm not even 3 minutes in and lost count of the number of double entendre, snapping my attention back to video.
Willie Ninja was a legend & always will be. This was the first LGBTQIA+ film I saw when I was 14 & closeted as a Pansexual. This film helped me & inspired me to find myself.
Wow! Your documentaries are so packed with information, you're like an encyclopedia. I hope you're earning a lot of money for this, you deserve it! Back in the days before social media you could easily have a job in a prestigious station, like the BBC. All the best!
I appreciate you making these videos I recognize that I am EXTREMELY fortunate. I came out as bisexual to my mother at 16, to which, surprise, she said she was too. I've since recognized that I'm pansexual, but still, I think back to how INSANELY lucky I was that I had a family that supported me, a network of friends that were supportive, and a community that didn't cast me out for being who I am... To all of you out there, run out by family, disowned by community, abandoned by friends for loving who you love, or trying to express who you are, just know that we love you. We will never abandon you, and we accept you for who you are.
What I cannot comprehend is how Crystal La Beija disappeared so completely that her death date isn't identified on her Wkipedia page to the year, not even to the decade. Where are all the people who knew and loved her to share her story more completely?
it's important to talk about the movie's problems, so thank you for this essay! i think it has way less problems than other early mainstream representations and it's definitely better than nothing, but yeah, we need to address the issues too
Brilliant work Matt. I fell in love with POSE and was thinking it's some of the best streaming ever then YT recommended Paris is burning and watched it and was blown away. What I found upsetting is the POSE producers never acknowledged the fact they sourced their material from Paris is burning 🔥. Loving all the historical view points. Brilliant work everyone ❤❤❤❤ from Australia 🇦🇺
I mean they had hours and hours and hours of footage that just couldn't fit into one documentary -- a lot of those "deleted" scenes appear on the Criterion blu-ray.
Good job on this video! I watched Paris Is Burning while in H.S. with my voguing friends. I learned how to vogue in the clubs and was delighted for any exposure at all - regardless of who it came from. It's easy to look back at complain about Ms. Livingston not being from the community etc. These type of ppl will complain about anything- I didn't see them putting anything together for future generations. P.I.B. was Ms. Livingston's college thesis, she didn't get rich off of it. Nobody did- that's how most documentaries work. They're made to bring subjects to a broader audience. This doc excelled in doing just that!
Culture Cruise is the most underrated series. Every episode is always amazing, you do such a terrific job narrating/writing/storytelling. Honestly this should be required viewing. So so good.
Wonderful work, Matt. Very informative and self-critical of your standpoint is a big plus to make the video educational. I will screen the video for my students to talk about our watching of Paris Is Burning.
What an amazing video. I love how you educate on the history of the LGBTQ community and remind us of what came before and how it shaped the way the community is now. And, as a side note, seeing Joan Rivers in this video made me really sentimental. I miss her. She's a voice that we would need these days and she was such a fierce ally. Also, it's great that you say "Don't stop here" because that is so damn important.
Yeah I miss her too. Did you see the documentary about her right before she passed? It's so great. Not particularly gay but I want to talk about it anyway!
Oh God, yes! Please please do! That documentary actually had me in tears in places. I only found out about her about three years before her passing (she isn't a big thing in Germany, sadly) and that documentary was wonderful. I religiously watched Fashion Police and "Joan and Melissa" just for her. And I'm so happy to know that she was in Spaceballs. I had no idea since I only knew the German dub.
One thing that is missing is the acknowledgement that the documentary did give back. It made the scene legendary. In fact Madonna’s vogue blew it up. Both have contributed to the global awareness of the scene. I not not sure we would be still taking about it today if both hadn’t happened. I know there was bitterness about financial gain but sometimes a lasting legacy is more important. Madonna took two dancers from the scene and featured black and Latino dancers in the video and following tour. They received global attention and she even sang on backing vocals for a single to launch their careers. For many worldwide she made it ok to be gay at a time when it wasn’t. She did that in the middle of the aids epidemic. It was brave.
I agree with you. I can understand the criticism. But, at the time, it was eye opening for a small-town southerner like me. I thought NYC was the most wonderful place on the planet.
I find this weird "no, actually, Madonna not good for the gays" line of thinking I have seen bumbling up lately - mostly from people too young to crock, apparently, what made her so special to queer culture) - to be rather tragic and historically atrocious. Madonna did not just take from the community, she felt a part of it, and AIDS was devastating for her as she watched several close friends die, most famously, Keith Haring. She felt as though she was one of us, and didn't just rely on gay men to steel from, but was perfectly happy to "shove" gay men "down the throats of America". When she did casting for Blond Ambition, the wording on what types of dancers she was looking for made it very clear she wanted gay men, and then she ended 'overloading' the dan troupe with men of color. In the associated Truth Or Dare 'documentary", gay men and specifically gay men of culture, are put front and center. Also, Madonna was the first big celebrity to not just wink over at us, but to point at us, shout about us, and then bring us up on stage for all to see, whether they liked it of not. also - Madonna most certainly did perform cultural appropriation, but she was handed permission on a silver platter. Madonna bad? No sweety - she is an important part of queer history, and she was really rather great.
Yes...I knew I was different at age 10...used to love watching the Lone Ranger.!! White and from a privileged background, I waited until age 31 to come out, but when I did, the closet door was incinerated!! My major regret is not coming out until then..but those times were difficult. Husband and I have proudly been together 40 years. May you all.have a happy and strong life!!🐱🐱🐱
Love the movie (am old enough to have seen it in the theater, Foxchase in Alexandria, VA) and love this video. As much of a "student" I think I am of the film, I learned SO MUCH from Matt B. I will follow up with suggested viewing/reading. Thank you.
5:42 “before it becomes a serious public health problem” meanwhile thousands of gay men had already passed away in abject horror, whilst being demonised by society. It makes me so angry hearing that especially after seeing, first hand, what aids does to a person. I’m so thankful I managed to meet and help some of those people with aids during the 90s. Here in England during the 90s it wasn’t as prevelant but unfortunately still as deadly. I send love regularly to those who we have lost due to aids. I just read Rock Hudson autobiography which was incredibly moving and definitely reminded me of the medical and sociological growth since that time.
What would you call the opposite of shade. Like.. Matt, what you do isn't just entertaining. What you do is essential but I don't have to tell you that because you know you're essential.
Took a course on Performance Narrative and Identity a few years ago. Our proff had us watch "Paris Is Burning". It was unlike anything I had experienced before. There was so much to know, understand and analyze. It was an eye-opener in many ways. Don't know but maybe everyone should take a few Anthropology classes in college.
I first saw it in college too. I wish I could remember what class -- I think it was maybe a semiotics seminar? Anyway, yes, it's such a rich text, especially when studied alongside other primary sources!
I remember those times. I had wonderful experiences in the club scene and it was a magical time. I did aerobic exercises 5 times a week back then, so I could dance all night. I discovered house music and couldn't get enough of the dance clubs. Back then, the kids would vogue like elegant runway models. Even butch guys would strut and pose like masculine models. It waa all so awesome.
Dorian Corey reminds me of one of my aunts. Dorian was beautiful and wise. People said bad things about Dorian having a dead body in his house. I feel bad for him and he might have been attacked. Dorian could not risk going to prison. So many of the people in the film have transitioned. I hope that they went to a peaceful place without hate, poverty, or violence. RIH to all of the hereos in this film that have passed on.
I disagree with the director not being directly from the community is a bad thing. Thats how most documentaries are made, and provides an outside perspective that you wouldn't get directly from someone in the community, who might gloss over less desirable or presentable aspects of the community if given compete control.
I saw Paris is Burning for the first time a year ago, with my bi/pan sister, last year at a small local movie theater. It was the most entrancing two hours of my life: every frame is a painting. I cried so much when they explained in the end on how Venus was murdered, I hated having leave the microcosm depicted in the movie and wanted to find out what happened to everyone afterwards.... I also suggest watching Lindsay Ellis’s video on Rent and how she explains how little was done for the LGBTQ+ community during the Aids crisis
Well done 👍🏾 I really appreciated the transparency, love and sensitivity around this content. Can you consider doing a review of the iconic series Noah’s ARC?
What other movies should I watch if I'm not familiar with they LGBTQ community? Edit: just got to point in the video where you linked to other info sorry.
Oh gosh so many, and it depends on what aspect of the community you want to know more about. Paris is Burning and The Queen are good places to start. I also recommend Pride, Moonlight, My Beautiful Launderette, Pink Flamingos, The Celluloid Closet, Milk, How to Survive a Plague, and Gay Sex in the 70s just to start. Other folks should chime in with their recommendations as well!
@@Bane_Diesel I would add "Portrait of Jason" to the mix. In this documentary from 1967, Jason tells many stories that provide insight into what life was like for a gay black man at the time (mid 20th Century). And I am convinced that Pepper LaBeija is "quoting" Jason when she introduced herself at the beginning of Paris is Burning. There is a scene in Portrait of Jason where Jason introduces himself that is very similar to how Pepper introduces herself in Paris is Burning. I have no idea if Pepper saw "Jason" but I like to think that she is referring to him with her introduction. It's possible an 18 year old Pepper LaBeija saw "Portrait of Jason" at New Cinema Playhouse at 120 West 42nd Street or Cinema 50 at 236 West 50th Street when it was shown at those theaters in the fall of 1967. Update: There's a video on here titled "Paris is Burning Deleted Scenes Outtakes" and in it you can hear Jennie Livingstone (the director) guiding Pepper to say something like "I am the mother..." so it's less likely that Pepper was impersonating Jason.
@@Bane_Diesel Jeffrey is a good one, it focus on the impact of HIV in gay relationships in the mid-90s. If for no other reason, watch it for Patrick Stewart playing one of Jeffrey's gay best friends. Pink Flamingos is one of my favorite movies, but it is not for the faint of heart or stomach! John Waters went hard in the 70s!
I would add the movies We Were Here, Parting Glances, The Living End, Silverlake Life, Sex Positive, Together Alone for a peek at life during the AIDS era. As ugly and scary as it was, it was an amazing time of empowerment. For the look at regular gay life during the 1970s, try A Very Natural Thing. It was supposed to be the gay version of A Love Story. There is also the documentary Word is Out from that time. Cruising is also a very influential yet controversial film from that time. I hope @Matt Baume reviews that some day.
10:04 Did anyone notice that Corey looked directly at JENNIE LIVINGSTON and called the filmmaker ugly in that part VERY OBVIOUSLY, but it went over her head?! If she can mummify a body in home and successfully hide it until well after she was dead, she can indeed call you ugly to your face...AND you don't catch it til YEARS LATER !
Its honestly wonderful that now we can look back at Paris is Burning and realize its just one moment, in one city, taken by one person's perspective. While we still have a long way to go for true equality, there's at least so much more media showing our stories now than there has ever been.
I realised I was gay late in life (my 30s), and I knew nothing about any of this (although living in the U.K. would not have helped). Thank you for all this history!
Never seen your videos before, just a random recommend, but thank you for reminding me of a song i really loved that i lost when grooveshark kicked the bucket. There's probably no connection to the documentary you're discussing, but thanks all the same! Song is "paris is burning" by st Vincent, btw, in case anyone's interested
I’m 23 and a lesbian. I was disowned by my family at 18. I can tell you now. This is very much so still a thing and I had to fight tooth and nail... still do for respect, care, love and a seat at the table. I turn 24 next month. I still think about it every single day. I just wanted to go to college, fall in love, etc... but it’s ok. We work for the life we want. Best to anyone else out there going through the same.
I'm so sorry that happened to you -- it really speaks to your strength that you endured what must have been an incredible difficult experience. I hope you're connected with chosen family that can support you now!
I hope you are in a better place now, and all your dreams will come true.
You're brave for coming out to your family, I'm 22 and I could never come out to them. Good luck to you!
@@thetwilightzone2403 Please, there is no pressure. Do it only when you feel safe and know that even if your family disowned you, you would not suffer from hunger or homelessness or lack of sacurity.
Sending you hugs and kisses 💖💖💖From Sara in London England 🖑💂
Watching Venice Extravaganza talk about her dreams for the future, only to learn at the end of Paris is Burning that she had been murdered, really shook me. I have seen so many other documentaries that either focus on homicide, or have homicide come up as a topic, and none have upset me the way Paris is Burning did. I think it was because I had no knowledge of the documentary when I watched it, so to go from footage of someone who seemed genuinely sweet just living their life, to the prologue announcing their murder, reminded me of just how random and cruel the world can be.
It still makes me so angry that Venus didn't have a better life. She's so sweet and funny and deserved so much more. Not to mention there are so many other people like her that we just don't know about because they weren't in a documentary.
It wasn't just Venus, I can personally tell you because I was there. There was also MISS Chloe and MISS Michael and many others that suffer the same and worse fates! That was just a part of our lives! I miss the old days but I would never want me or anyone else to relive that time period in history, I'm very fortunate to make it to this point alive and well.🤷♂️
When I first saw Pb in theatre, yes Venus was a shock, she lived a life style I was familiar with and knew of many Drag Friends who where murdered, and killer never found. Brought the sadness back to me.
How she died was just so violent and heartbreaking. She suffered... and the family had to talk to her biological family because they were so estranged..
Shouldn't we acknowledge that drug addiction and prostitution are inherently dangerous?
In Paris is Burning, the part where the man explains how black people strive to be the white man, was so touching, painful, well shot and well narrated. I don't quite understand how people think it's not a social commentary. Of course the desire to be like your oppressor is problematised in the movie. The whole movie is about marginalized people, so I don't know how someone would misinterpret that as a positive feat.
Frankly, the first time I watched, I couldn't remember anything but that bit. I felt like it was going on, and on, and on when it was just a couple minutes. Because it's painful. And I'm white.
@@corbanekarel3692 I noticed that too and have seen Paris Is Burning. This video is framing its topic more towards the younger generation of LGBTQIA people. People who often go with the hashtag of #nothingaboutuswithoutus-where if you have a movie about ballroom for example? The writers and directors too must have to have been part of ballroom. When Paris Is Burning was made? Just the idea that such a docu existed had a deep significance.
Now today, we've had that more modern expansion of representation with Pose, which is very much based on Paris Is Burning of course. I personally have no anger at all that the people who made this docu weren't actually part of ballroom at the time. Am happy that an LGBTQIA person actually made the film. It opened the door for LGBTQIA writers, directors and actors to tell their side of the story. Which interestingly, isn't greatly different than Paris Is Burning-aside from the point of view. It isn't that different really.
The realness part, too. To not appear gay but look like a hetero man or like a woman
Black and people of color are marginalised INSIDE their own culture. To this day. In my country white people are much more liberal about that. For decennia. It's bizarre how ignorant queer people are today.
I always knew that Gingrich was a horrible person but watching that clip of him talk about how people with aids should be “dealt with” is chilling. My uncle had aids. Instead of die of it he killed himself when I was 4 years old. He didn’t die of aids. He died of loneliness, being ostracized, and a lack of empathy.
BLESS
He wasn't alone😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢
The video isn't even about it but Crystal LaBeija's bit in The Queen is still just so wonderful. Seeing that kind of fierce outrage and bravery to demand equality within a group that was treated as less than by everyone else was amazing.
Exactly 💯🎯
I love how you educate that LGBTQ culture has been around for much longer than people think. Thank you for these videos
@@MattBaume Longer, really. It exists in pretty much every species that reproduces sexually in some manner. It was certainly part of the lives of our pre-human ancestors as well.
It's existed forever. We care for eachother when those put in place to care don't.
Yeah, thousands of years longer. Maybe read a 📖?
Even during the time of the Romans ...
If you think that the 1980's were a long time ago then you are really,really young
Interesting fact: The extreme and hateful responses towards the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis was part of what inspired Alan Moore to write V For Vendetta.
KING SHIT
Sorry but no. Moore himself said that it's not based on any real world even. But recurring themes that Acura thought out history. anarchy vs fascism. Which plays a larger role in the story.
@@eliselianaboyd2547 Weird, I could've sworn he brought it up in the foreward of the graphic novel.
@@BloodylocksBathory oddly enough Alan Moore is not really a political writer. It's really story about everything. Even Neil Gaiman is more political than Moore is. And Gaiman is no political writer. But it's still a good story.
@@eliselianaboyd2547 I guess it's the concepts he often explores in his stories that implies it. Yes, still a good story.
"If you shoot an arrow and it goes real high ...Hooray for you." I love that Dorian Corey quote!
Thanks Matt for posting this video! You're an asset to the Lgbtq community. 🌈❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Thank you! I think about that "hooray for you" so much.
yes, that quote is everything.
That one had wisdom🌷🌹🌷🌹
People can criticize Paris Is Burning to the ground but the movie immortalized its performers to be remembered by future audiences.
White culture always capitalizes off of black culture so why should we criticize or complain about it now?? We should just accept it.
I first saw the film when I was in university as part of a course on gay men in film and media. That was 25 year ago and it was already a hugely important work. It wasn't perfect but at the time it was a revelation.
It is a super important record! But it's just one time, one place, one group of people, as seen by one crew. There's lots more resources to learn from today.
True that Jennie Livingston couldn’t film all drag balls at the same time but that’s like criticizing Leonardo Da Vinci for only painting Jesus and The apostles and Mary and not the rest of the characters in the bible. Like any piece of art, we can only capture a moment and not the entire history that goes along with it. And the fact that the film happened to be entertaining AND also very well done (come on, those white text on black background moments are iconic) is a testament on the filmmakers’ artistic talent-the fact that the director happens to be white is almost non-consequential to the end product’s quality.
@@RichardHannay really bro...that's the euphemism you wanna use? I could get mad that Da Vinci painted Jesus white and not Middle Eastern So do you really wanna go there?? My friends were taken advantage of..period. The only people who feel great about it were people who weren't taken advantage of. White people never want to say "damn that was fucked up". Y'all always wanna make excuses. At this point...everything y'all have done in society is fucked up. Yes..even things y'all like. Stop trying to find a silver lining in things. Sometimes shit is just fucked up.. You started the statement knowing it was fucked up. Only white people think youre whiteness has nothing to do with shit. Mat said it at the beginning of the video. When marginalized people express that something is not a positive don't try to debate them on it. Just because you don't see a problem...not only does NOT mean that there is NOT a problem...it also NOW MEANS that you are a PART of the problem. The group of people who think "nothing is wrong"
Paris was required viewing when I came out. I accidentally came out in 90, was homeless shortly after, and lived in the world of drag bars and crash pads of queens in MI. That moment in time was at the AIds epidemic peak, and for free lunch I volunteer worked at places, including a hospice for Aids patients where a pal of mine lived (the notorious Ms Rusty Springs, a bartender and ex biker who homaged the comedy of Rusty Warren in drag. Eventually I wound up working in one of the oldest drag bars in MI (the Club 67) and it seemed like, for awhile, I knew every queen in every house, from every background imaginable, occupying every place on the spectrum of human identity, gender and sexuality. How we loved that movie...because so little in that era was frank and honest...and when there was a little publicity, it was focused on someone white...and while I and many of my friends were white...the scene we existed in was NOT monochromatic...it was lively, diverse, welcoming and better for it. Seeing a film that showed more of our culture than the bits Hollywood was comfy with was like a breath of fresh air. It looked like the people we knew, and the way we lived, leaning on each other to survive when the regular world had no use for us. Until a few years ago, I almost never spoke of the funerals, or the bedside visits at hospitals, or the friends whose names were added to the AIDS quilt one by one. It was like a wound that was sealed over so deep but with the poison still inside. Letting it out hurts almost worse than living with it quietly in memory. Mostly, just grateful so many of us did manage to live to now...chiefly owed to safe sex ed orchestrated by volunteers (with zero help from Uncle Sam...an absence we have never forgotten, or forgiven). Now it seems relevant to let it all out, to make it recorded and remembered before all those wonderful and terrible things slip away unremembered. Thats why I love your channel. It does what I see as profoundly important...an archive of a history that otherwise might be lost. Thank you!
Those first 25 seconds seem eerily similar to what’s going on today. Same political party, same problems.
It's wild, isn't it? That's one of the reasons I make these videos, to point out the mistakes of the past and how they were dealt with then.
When you said "Drag and ballroom scene", I heard it as "Dragonball Room Scene". Now i'm imaging Vegeta reading Goku to filth.
I absolutely want to make that happen in a Queens of Adventure show!
And now I can’t unsee it
As a (mostly) straight, white 35yo male, I have to say I really look forward to your videos to teach me things I would never have learnt otherwise. I'm doing my best to help in a world which is seemingly trying to bring down everyone except for people like me, and it hurts my soul to know that people suffered and are suffering so badly for it. I just wanna love everyone, why is that so hard for some people?
Once again Matt thank you for your hard work. I love your videos and they always leave me feeling like I've learned something important.
Glad I can bring you stuff to enjoy! And let me know if there are topics you want to see me cover in the future!
This warms my heart!
That's a wonderful sentiment, not all that realistic but you do have your heart ❤ in the right place. But sadly you're looking at a fight that you're not in and don't know anything about.
@@eliselianaboyd2547 uh thanks, I guess? I'm not sure what I said to offend you
@@RatAndRaven sorry about that. Just because I been having some trouble with everything that's been going on doesn't mean I get to take it out on anyone else. Thanks for being so sweet and kind. Like I said you have a good heart.
I swear I can't get through any of your last few videos with crying, but if anything that shows how wonderful everything you do here is.
Aww thank you! Glad you find them moving.
Omg I thought I was the only one! I cried heavily at the end of The Queen.
Ah, that's where "Pose" got the body-in-the-closet storyline!
Yes! Such a weird thing for them to adapt but then again how could anyone resist such a mystery?
Yes steve canalis the creator def used a few storylines from PB since since those things actually happened during the time where pose is supposedly happening and we’re actual issues (candys murder, elektras body In the closet) etc
Its still depicted in a predominantly white
I can be very very shady ...im cold
Dorean left a dead body.. she shot an arrow and it went into her man
Dear Matt Baume,
I don't know if you'll ever get the chance to read this but I just wanted to write this to say thank you for making these videos about gay culture, particularly this one. I was really hesitant to watch these videos about Paris Is Burning, so hesitant, in fact, that I literally have had them in my 'Watch Later' for a YEAR! I usually am so excited for your videos but the subject of Paris Is Burning hits very close to home. Living in Seattle, particularly in the suburbs when I was 14, this movie was introduced to me by my godmother who noticed I was obsessed with the song Vogue...well, more obsessed with Madonna having just discovered her. This movie though, made me feel so seen and understood in more ways than one. However, most white gay folks I've met, seemed trivialized it and made it more like this comedy; not understanding its significance, hence why I put off watching your video on this because these people have been apart of my everyday and make my life worth living fully as a black gay man. Whenever I have felt sad or broken even hopeless, this film has brought more joy and hope and awakened my mind to so many parts of myself I would've hidden had I not seen this film. Anyway, to see how you've researched, admitted your privilege and just overall handled the film with care makes me so happy and the fact that we are from the same city even more proud. These videos are always the highlight of my week so this LONG message is just my way of saying thank you so much for being a light in the interwebs.
Sincerely,
Andrew
This is how you talk about content and history that is not your own. This is how you pay respect to the people it reflects. Big hat tip to you!
Omg this is so random but I'm in the background in the LEGENDARY clip @ 16:02 with my green dashiki and big afro and I was just not expecting myself to see myself in a video ahah I'm GAGGINGGGG
But more over, I really like your video and as some1 who is in ballroom culture AND is in the ICONIC house of Escada AND I participate in walking in balls(butch queen face and all American runway) I really like ur video and how detailed it was and the certain clips used but yes thank you on the behalf of ballroom culture!!💚🦚
Oh that's awesome! I'm so jealous that you got to be there, it must have been AMAZING. And thank you for liking the video, it really means a lot to have praise from a member of the House of Escada!!!
@@MattBaume OMG YAAAAAASSSSS I should do a video of my experience and I'm also in the next 2 episodes of LEGENDARY haha!!! And yes I love how careful and concise u are and it really means a lot!! I mean hey let's do an interview ahhhhhahaahaah🤣
The escadas are late AF
Love Pepper LaBeija’s voice. I could listen to him talk all day long. A calming voice that exudes wisdom. RIP.
Just a fun fact: C+C Music Factory's album "Gonna Make You Sweat" has an unlisted track that mixes vocals from "Paris is Burning" into a dance song. Some of the lines used are "throwing shade" and "we're not going to be shady, but fierce."
Oh I didn't know that! I'll have to look it up. Thank you!
What's the name of the track?
@@sandra-jones The cassette case cover, if I remember correctly, listed it as simply as "?". iTunes has it as '? (Hidden Track)."
Heartbreaking that she didn’t know the mark she made on many lives, and the hearts she touched.
It was over ten years before I knew Madonna didn't invent vogueing. And some people still don't know it. So, no the black people from Paris is burning are still mostly unknown and really didn't leave any marks whatsoever. Unless you count helping to make Madonna famous.
Dorian Corey was my favorite in the film. Her knowledge and her words were so real and deep! She was the backbone of Paris is Burning.
She was mine as well, I memorized her snippets and have used them so many times, sometimes just to educate other gay fam.
I would also highly recommend the Vice series “My house”, where we see intricate and very personal stories of upcoming legendary children from different houses. And talking about “Legendary”, unfortunately that show had a great opportunity to showcase the Ballroom culture but preferred to focus on the competition and brought together a group of very untrained Jury members, with the exception of the iconic Leiomy Maldonado (the only one who actually deserved to be a Jury)
In 1991 there was a guy that liked me, and when I didn't return his affection he called my parents and outed me. I was kicked out of the house. The drag queens took me in and showed me what chosen family is all about. I reconciled with my parents shortly after, but I always appreciate my queens helping me through the rough patch.
That line at the end that Dorian Corey says about leaving a mark is one of my favorite quotes of all time. Creepily realistic & hauntingly beautiful.
Thanks for posting this. I remember seeing this movie when it came out in theatres and being blown away. I think bell hooks' critique is a little off the mark. Back then terms like "white privilege" weren't in common parlance and only used among a very tiny group of academics. However, Jenny Livingstone points to the white privilege throughout the entire movie. I loved the line, "In every commercial you see on TV, everyone is in their own home. The pool is in the back. They aren't in an apartment in a concrete jungle." And "Category is school: college, high school...not here."
So great to see this and really appreciate all the links to other pieces on the history of ballroom. Thanks so much. FYI - currently Paris is Burning is only streaming on iTunes and available to purchase on DVD and Blu-ray via The Criterion Collection. This newest re-release from Criterion came out a few months ago and it is incredible. It is a New 2K digital restoration, supervised by director Jennie Livingston (restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in conjunction with Sundance Institute and Outfest UCLA Legacy Project). The Blu-ray/DVD extras include a new conversation between Livingston, ball community members Sol Pendavis and Freddie Pendavis, and filmmaker Thomas Allen Harris; over an hour of never-before-seen outtakes; audio commentary from 2005, featuring Livingston, ball community members Freddie Pendavis and Willi Ninja, and film editor Jonathan Oppenheim; the episode of The Joan Rivers Show from 1991, featuring Livingston and ball community members Dorian Corey, Pepper LaBeija, Freddie Pendavis, and Ninja; an essay by filmmaker Michelle Parkerson and a 1991 review by poet Essex Hemphill; and a new interview with yours truly speaking as a queer film historian about the significance of the film. Okay, last thing I want to mention is that the 1967 short documentary, Queens at Heart (which I unearthed many years ago and which was also restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in conjunction with the Outfest UCLA Legacy Project) features amazing footage from a 1967 NYC drag ball, as well as interviews with four incredibly eloquent trans women talking about what it was like at that time. It is viewable via Kanopy for free with a library card or via my Vimeo On Demand page for $2.99. vimeo.com/ondemand/queensatheart
This is all so helpful -- thank you for this info and thank you for all the work you do!!!
Jenni, thank you for sharing this info =D
it's on Netflix in Australia
wow, that is an amazing part of history, I hope to watch this.
@@SleepMeditationandAffirmations probably not the extended version that Jenni is speaking of......
Dorian Corey : everybody wants to leave something behind
Also Dorian Corey : *leaves a mummy in her closet
I think you made a great point at the end there. You're not in the particular scene, but you're still giving people an introduction with the hope that we'll do the leg work to learn more from people more involved. I think that's something a lot of people forget about, is that sometimes it's okay for people outside the scene to use their influence and reach to introduce people to something. No, the director of Paris is Burning wasn't a person of color who performed in the houses. But, she did bring her skill and ability to introduce people to a concept they weren't aware of and try to show the people she cared about as just that, people, in a time they weren't always looked at that way.
It's one of the most frustrating things I hear when people try to look back at history, at pivotal moments like this, and go "but it wasn't created by the most marginalized person in the room at the time!" As a way to dismiss its value. Like yes, I agree that those people should be the ones getting the biggest spotlight and to talk the most. But change isn't made in one sudden swoop, it's done in bits and pieces by slowly getting people acclimated to a new idea. The easiest way for that to happen, sometimes, is for someone in a place of privilege or power to use their influence to introduce something new, important, or overlooked. And I think we forget that sometimes. You giving us great ways to hear from the people who truly know is the best thing you can do. I've been introduced to a piece of history I didn't know about, by you in your place of privilege, and now I can dive deeper into it through the people who are more deeply involved.
Matt's videos are always entertaining and a learning opportunity. He is always sensitive and caring about his subjects. Just love him. I've learned so much from him. I hope he is having the best life!
It's sad how the intro to this video sounded like you were talking about 2020, not 1987 - not much has changed in 33 years. Happy Pride Month to you all, much love, and stay safe! 😘❤🧡💛💚💙💜🤎🖤
Houses weren't just NYC. I was in a small house where I am right in the mid-late 80s. Though I didn't dance or "walk" in public. They knew I was trans even as I was shrinking away from the identity and wandering back in the closet. I've really been trying to think of that era's happy parts, through the sheer terror of it washes out so much of it. Though one advantage I have is passing white (I made a video on that, talking about it for the first time mere months ago.)
The lawyers among us recognized the name of Bowers. He was the named defendant, after prosecuting Hardwick, in the case that decided it was constitutional to outlaw gay sex in the 1980s, a ruling not overturned until 2003 with Lawrence v. Texas.
Yes indeed -- Newt Gingrich comes right after him, but I was startled to see Bowers in the mix as well. A complicated guy who many years later lent his talents to advancing equality.
@@MattBaume Really. I didn't know that. I know him only from the case name. Thanks.
Watched Paris is Burning for the first time last night. Good timing Matt.
It was meant to be!
I saw this in an art house movie theater in 1991. I was blown away by their stories.
Madonna wasn't the first one who promoted vogue in main stream, in 1989. Malcolm McLaren had record "Waltz Darling" dedicated to ball room culture, and lyrics of songs were directly referencing whole subculture
It really annoys me that she gets so much credit and Malcolm is glossed over.
This is a truly excellent Culture Cruise. I love the ballroom scene and I’ve always been an outsider looking in; but I’ve been very inspired, emotionally and artistically. I think you did an extraordinary job of giving a good overview of the past and present as well as it’s relevance and greater meaning. I’d never thought about how Crystal Labeija set about a revolution that would save lives. I think that’s the most beautiful and important legacy a person can leave.
Not sure if you write your own scripts, but your delivery is truly spectacular. I'm not even 3 minutes in and lost count of the number of double entendre, snapping my attention back to video.
Willie Ninja was a legend & always will be. This was the first LGBTQIA+ film I saw when I was 14 & closeted as a Pansexual. This film helped me & inspired me to find myself.
Wow! Your documentaries are so packed with information, you're like an encyclopedia. I hope you're earning a lot of money for this, you deserve it!
Back in the days before social media you could easily have a job in a prestigious station, like the BBC. All the best!
I appreciate you making these videos
I recognize that I am EXTREMELY fortunate. I came out as bisexual to my mother at 16, to which, surprise, she said she was too.
I've since recognized that I'm pansexual, but still, I think back to how INSANELY lucky I was that I had a family that supported me, a network of friends that were supportive, and a community that didn't cast me out for being who I am...
To all of you out there, run out by family, disowned by community, abandoned by friends for loving who you love, or trying to express who you are, just know that we love you. We will never abandon you, and we accept you for who you are.
What I cannot comprehend is how Crystal La Beija disappeared so completely that her death date isn't identified on her Wkipedia page to the year, not even to the decade. Where are all the people who knew and loved her to share her story more completely?
it's important to talk about the movie's problems, so thank you for this essay!
i think it has way less problems than other early mainstream representations and it's definitely better than nothing, but yeah, we need to address the issues too
The “Mummy in the Closet” story deserves its own six-part, true crime podcast.
Like I said in the chat, another wonderful dive into a incredible important slice of our history and life. 🖤🖤🖤
Aw thank you, so glad you liked this one!
@@MattBaume loved it!! 👍🏼😀
Your videos have been not only entraining but also educational. Thank you for your knowledge and kindness
Brilliant work Matt. I fell in love with POSE and was thinking it's some of the best streaming ever then YT recommended Paris is burning and watched it and was blown away. What I found upsetting is the POSE producers never acknowledged the fact they sourced their material from Paris is burning 🔥. Loving all the historical view points. Brilliant work everyone ❤❤❤❤ from Australia 🇦🇺
I heard that there were too many ball scenes to edit.
I mean they had hours and hours and hours of footage that just couldn't fit into one documentary -- a lot of those "deleted" scenes appear on the Criterion blu-ray.
the story telling is very well delivered I like the format keep it up!
Matt, your synopsis was incredible! You (is) a marvel?
I always get super giddy seeing you in your sailor outfit when a new video comes out!
Haha thank you. All aboard!
I know doesn't he look so cute and adorable you better work it out Me Sailor! 😍❤️💋🥰🙏🏼💯
@mattbaum
Good job on this video! I watched Paris Is Burning while in H.S. with my voguing friends. I learned how to vogue in the clubs and was delighted for any exposure at all - regardless of who it came from. It's easy to look back at complain about Ms. Livingston not being from the community etc. These type of ppl will complain about anything- I didn't see them putting anything together for future generations. P.I.B. was Ms. Livingston's college thesis, she didn't get rich off of it. Nobody did- that's how most documentaries work. They're made to bring subjects to a broader audience. This doc excelled in doing just that!
Exactly!!! 👏
Culture Cruise is the most underrated series. Every episode is always amazing, you do such a terrific job narrating/writing/storytelling. Honestly this should be required viewing. So so good.
Wonderful work, Matt. Very informative and self-critical of your standpoint is a big plus to make the video educational. I will screen the video for my students to talk about our watching of Paris Is Burning.
The algorithm did me a solid for once! Great video
What an amazing video. I love how you educate on the history of the LGBTQ community and remind us of what came before and how it shaped the way the community is now. And, as a side note, seeing Joan Rivers in this video made me really sentimental. I miss her. She's a voice that we would need these days and she was such a fierce ally.
Also, it's great that you say "Don't stop here" because that is so damn important.
Yeah I miss her too. Did you see the documentary about her right before she passed? It's so great. Not particularly gay but I want to talk about it anyway!
Oh God, yes! Please please do! That documentary actually had me in tears in places. I only found out about her about three years before her passing (she isn't a big thing in Germany, sadly) and that documentary was wonderful. I religiously watched Fashion Police and "Joan and Melissa" just for her. And I'm so happy to know that she was in Spaceballs. I had no idea since I only knew the German dub.
One thing that is missing is the acknowledgement that the documentary did give back. It made the scene legendary. In fact Madonna’s vogue blew it up. Both have contributed to the global awareness of the scene. I not not sure we would be still taking about it today if both hadn’t happened. I know there was bitterness about financial gain but sometimes a lasting legacy is more important. Madonna took two dancers from the scene and featured black and Latino dancers in the video and following tour. They received global attention and she even sang on backing vocals for a single to launch their careers. For many worldwide she made it ok to be gay at a time when it wasn’t. She did that in the middle of the aids epidemic. It was brave.
And no one was paying documentary participants, Livington did actually!
I agree with you. I can understand the criticism. But, at the time, it was eye opening for a small-town southerner like me. I thought NYC was the most wonderful place on the planet.
Malcolm McLaren released the single Deep In Vogue about a year before Madonna
@@greenbeard.affliction& failed but then it was re-released in 1990 AFTER Madonna's "Vogue" became a worldwide hit
I find this weird "no, actually, Madonna not good for the gays" line of thinking I have seen bumbling up lately - mostly from people too young to crock, apparently, what made her so special to queer culture) - to be rather tragic and historically atrocious. Madonna did not just take from the community, she felt a part of it, and AIDS was devastating for her as she watched several close friends die, most famously, Keith Haring. She felt as though she was one of us, and didn't just rely on gay men to steel from, but was perfectly happy to "shove" gay men "down the throats of America". When she did casting for Blond Ambition, the wording on what types of dancers she was looking for made it very clear she wanted gay men, and then she ended 'overloading' the dan troupe with men of color. In the associated Truth Or Dare 'documentary", gay men and specifically gay men of culture, are put front and center.
Also, Madonna was the first big celebrity to not just wink over at us, but to point at us, shout about us, and then bring us up on stage for all to see, whether they liked it of not.
also - Madonna most certainly did perform cultural appropriation, but she was handed permission on a silver platter.
Madonna bad? No sweety - she is an important part of queer history, and she was really rather great.
Loved this! Thank you. Also cute outfit 😘
Haha thank you, the sailor costume was, alas, rather uncomfortable but I do miss dressing up sometimes!
I’m not sure if I heard him mention the 2016 documentary ‘Kiki’, but it’s a great sort of follow-up to ‘Paris is Burning’.
"Opulence! You own EVERYTHING!" is one of the most 80's statements I've ever heard.
And that's why the 80's was known as the "Me Decade" So much excess & self absorbence!!!
I love your videos! You’re teaching the children about our history!
Yes...I knew I was different at age 10...used to love watching the Lone Ranger.!!
White and from a privileged background, I waited until age 31 to come out, but
when I did, the closet door was incinerated!! My major regret is not coming
out until then..but those times were difficult. Husband and I have proudly been together 40 years. May you all.have a happy and strong life!!🐱🐱🐱
Love the movie (am old enough to have seen it in the theater, Foxchase in Alexandria, VA) and love this video. As much of a "student" I think I am of the film, I learned SO MUCH from Matt B. I will follow up with suggested viewing/reading. Thank you.
You really did this documentary justice in the way you spoke about it. Truly a superb job.
5:42 “before it becomes a serious public health problem” meanwhile thousands of gay men had already passed away in abject horror, whilst being demonised by society. It makes me so angry hearing that especially after seeing, first hand, what aids does to a person. I’m so thankful I managed to meet and help some of those people with aids during the 90s. Here in England during the 90s it wasn’t as prevelant but unfortunately still as deadly. I send love regularly to those who we have lost due to aids. I just read Rock Hudson autobiography which was incredibly moving and definitely reminded me of the medical and sociological growth since that time.
What would you call the opposite of shade. Like.. Matt, what you do isn't just entertaining. What you do is essential but I don't have to tell you that because you know you're essential.
Aw thank you! I guess the opposite of shade is sunlight? Or maybe a rainbow? I would accept a rainbow.
This was so good. Thanks Matt
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this "Historical" Doc. I 1st saw this Doc. in early 2000's. From the Houses, Dancing, Vogueing, to the back stories.
Took a course on Performance Narrative and Identity a few years ago. Our proff had us watch "Paris Is Burning". It was unlike anything I had experienced before. There was so much to know, understand and analyze. It was an eye-opener in many ways. Don't know but maybe everyone should take a few Anthropology classes in college.
I first saw it in college too. I wish I could remember what class -- I think it was maybe a semiotics seminar? Anyway, yes, it's such a rich text, especially when studied alongside other primary sources!
Paris is Burning is one the greatest documentaries I've ever seen.
I remember those times. I had wonderful experiences in the club scene and it was a magical time. I did aerobic exercises 5 times a week back then, so I could dance all night. I discovered house music and couldn't get enough of the dance clubs. Back then, the kids would vogue like elegant runway models. Even butch guys would strut and pose like masculine models. It waa all so awesome.
Love how you did this vid. Thank you👏🏾
“I’ve heard of skeletons in the closet, but this is ridiculous!” - Police going through Dorian’s belongings (probably).
Dorian Corey reminds me of one of my aunts. Dorian was beautiful and wise. People said bad things about Dorian having a dead body in his house. I feel bad for him and he might have been attacked. Dorian could not risk going to prison. So many of the people in the film have transitioned. I hope that they went to a peaceful place without hate, poverty, or violence. RIH to all of the hereos in this film that have passed on.
thank you for taking your time to educate us :)
My pleasure! That's my deal.
The sad part is that you STILL cannot purchase Paris Is Burning. Poor kid’s didn’t know they needed a lawyer.
Let’s not forget Malcolm Mclarens Deep in Vogue proceeded Madonna by a year
I disagree with the director not being directly from the community is a bad thing. Thats how most documentaries are made, and provides an outside perspective that you wouldn't get directly from someone in the community, who might gloss over less desirable or presentable aspects of the community if given compete control.
Another amazing video! Thanks so much for your hard work. I knew a bit about this but it's great to get more perspective and more resources.
I saw Paris is Burning for the first time a year ago, with my bi/pan sister, last year at a small local movie theater. It was the most entrancing two hours of my life: every frame is a painting. I cried so much when they explained in the end on how Venus was murdered, I hated having leave the microcosm depicted in the movie and wanted to find out what happened to everyone afterwards....
I also suggest watching Lindsay Ellis’s video on Rent and how she explains how little was done for the LGBTQ+ community during the Aids crisis
Well done 👍🏾 I really appreciated the transparency, love and sensitivity around this content. Can you consider doing a review of the iconic series Noah’s ARC?
That's on my list!
Matt Baume ❤️thank you❤️
I've been accepted by the LGBT community ever since I've entered college. I've been bisexual for 40 years. I miss NYC drag scenes. 😢
Thank you for providing links to some more resources!
You bet! I'm always looking for more stuff to recommend.
Matt Baume the Vice show “‘my house” is here on RUclips and follows 6 people in the ballroom scene and tells their stories..it’s an amazing show
I was surprised upon viewing Paris is Burning that there are no "thank you" credits. It ends so abruptly.
What other movies should I watch if I'm not familiar with they LGBTQ community?
Edit: just got to point in the video where you linked to other info sorry.
Oh gosh so many, and it depends on what aspect of the community you want to know more about. Paris is Burning and The Queen are good places to start. I also recommend Pride, Moonlight, My Beautiful Launderette, Pink Flamingos, The Celluloid Closet, Milk, How to Survive a Plague, and Gay Sex in the 70s just to start. Other folks should chime in with their recommendations as well!
@@MattBaume I'm proud to say that I have seen some on that list but the others I will check out thanks!
@@Bane_Diesel I would add "Portrait of Jason" to the mix. In this documentary from 1967, Jason tells many stories that provide insight into what life was like for a gay black man at the time (mid 20th Century). And I am convinced that Pepper LaBeija is "quoting" Jason when she introduced herself at the beginning of Paris is Burning. There is a scene in Portrait of Jason where Jason introduces himself that is very similar to how Pepper introduces herself in Paris is Burning. I have no idea if Pepper saw "Jason" but I like to think that she is referring to him with her introduction. It's possible an 18 year old Pepper LaBeija saw "Portrait of Jason" at New Cinema Playhouse at 120 West 42nd Street or Cinema 50 at 236 West 50th Street when it was shown at those theaters in the fall of 1967. Update: There's a video on here titled "Paris is Burning Deleted Scenes Outtakes" and in it you can hear Jennie Livingstone (the director) guiding Pepper to say something like "I am the mother..." so it's less likely that Pepper was impersonating Jason.
@@Bane_Diesel Jeffrey is a good one, it focus on the impact of HIV in gay relationships in the mid-90s. If for no other reason, watch it for Patrick Stewart playing one of Jeffrey's gay best friends.
Pink Flamingos is one of my favorite movies, but it is not for the faint of heart or stomach! John Waters went hard in the 70s!
I would add the movies We Were Here, Parting Glances, The Living End, Silverlake Life, Sex Positive, Together Alone for a peek at life during the AIDS era. As ugly and scary as it was, it was an amazing time of empowerment. For the look at regular gay life during the 1970s, try A Very Natural Thing. It was supposed to be the gay version of A Love Story. There is also the documentary Word is Out from that time. Cruising is also a very influential yet controversial film from that time. I hope @Matt Baume reviews that some day.
Once again, great great work Matt!
I remember hearing about Dorian Corey from Ask A Mortitian on here, but seeing some more insight towards the movie and culture.
That Ask a Mortician video is SO GOOD -- I'm going to add a card with a link! Thank you for reminding me.
@@MattBaume No prob. Seeing ya'll connect on content is a joy of it's own.
10:04 Did anyone notice that Corey looked directly at JENNIE LIVINGSTON and called the filmmaker ugly in that part VERY OBVIOUSLY, but it went over her head?! If she can mummify a body in home and successfully hide it until well after she was dead, she can indeed call you ugly to your face...AND you don't catch it til YEARS LATER !
I didn’t know anything about this culture until Paris is burning and my favorite TV show pose
Its honestly wonderful that now we can look back at Paris is Burning and realize its just one moment, in one city, taken by one person's perspective. While we still have a long way to go for true equality, there's at least so much more media showing our stories now than there has ever been.
thank you for sharing this video.
Yes! This was such a fascinating documentary!! Thank you Matt
Amazing video ❤️❤️thank you for highlighting all the issues w PIB..I still love the doc because it made me admire the scene
I realised I was gay late in life (my 30s), and I knew nothing about any of this (although living in the U.K. would not have helped). Thank you for all this history!
So glad to be able to bring you something new! Check out that other videos that I recommended, there's SO MUCH great ballroom stuff happening now.
@@MattBaume I will
Great work Matt 👏👏👏
Never seen your videos before, just a random recommend, but thank you for reminding me of a song i really loved that i lost when grooveshark kicked the bucket. There's probably no connection to the documentary you're discussing, but thanks all the same!
Song is "paris is burning" by st Vincent, btw, in case anyone's interested
incredible analysis of the documentary. I really enjoyed this. Thank you so much
I got in trouble for vougeing as a child when the song came out. Now that I look back, I guess my Father thought I was throwing shade at him?
I am here to learn and i refuse to be distracted by how cute the sailor outfit is
Looking forward to your broadcast.