The documentary, Paris is Burning, stands as an iconic representation of the Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities and drag ball culture in the 1980s. Directed by the talented Jennie Livingston, this cinematic masterpiece not only captures the essence of ball culture but also delves deep into the profound challenges faced by its participants, including discrimination and the devastating HIV/AIDS epidemic of the era.

While the film effectively portrays ball culture and the experiences of LGBTQ+ people of color within it, it was not without controversy. This is because it was crafted by someone who was not a part of drag ball culture, Jennie Livingston, a gay white woman. This raises the questions: Who has the right to create certain types of documentaries? Can someone from the outside looking in portray an entirely different demographic as authentically as someone on the inside? Although this question lingered, Paris is Burning found success as it bridged the knowledge gap for those unfamiliar with drag ball culture. This documentary serves as an introductory gateway, thoughtfully explaining the terminology and intricacies of this captivating world.

In contrast, the 2016 documentary, Kiki, which in a sense is a sequel to Paris is Burning, took a different path as filmmaker, Twiggy Pucci Garçon, is a member of ball culture. Kiki thrived in authenticity, presenting a more intricate perspective of drag ball culture. However, it can be more difficult to follow due to it being geared more towards people that already have exposure to drag ball culture. This film assumes a foundational understanding of this culture as it intends to build upon the existing knowledge of its viewers.

This video offers a fascinating snapshot of the evolution and transformation of drag ball culture from its origins to the present day. It illustrates how marginalized LGBTQ+ Black and Latinx communities forged underground spaces for self-expression, competition, and affirmation of identity, to how the film, Paris is Burning, played an instrumental role in expanding awareness of ball culture, voguing, and the resilience and creativity of its participants, to ultimately propelling ball culture into the heart of pop culture. Today, its influence can be discerned in music videos, fashion trends, and mainstream dance performances, highlighting the everlasting impact of this captivating subculture on the broader cultural landscape.