A Perfect Match for a Classic Documentary: Netflix's New True-Crime Doc

A Legacy Beyond June: The Enduring Impact of Paris is Burning and the New Documentary on Venus Xtravaganza

The LGBTQ+ community’s fight for visibility and acceptance does not end with Pride Month. While many corporations may fade from the spotlight after June, the struggles and triumphs of the queer community continue to shape culture and history. One of the most iconic representations of this resilience is the 1990 documentary Paris is Burning, which brought attention to the vibrant and often overlooked ballroom culture in Harlem. This film remains a cornerstone of queer cinema, offering an intimate look at the lives of Black and brown LGBTQ+ individuals who found refuge and identity through drag, voguing, and competitive ballroom events.

At the heart of Paris is Burning is Venus Xtravaganza, a young trans woman whose dreams of modeling and starting a family were tragically cut short. Her story, both inspiring and heartbreaking, has remained central to discussions about the challenges faced by transgender people, especially within marginalized communities. Tragically, Venus was murdered in 1988, before the film was released, and her case remains unsolved. Over three decades later, a new Netflix documentary titled I’m Your Venus seeks to bring renewed attention to her life, legacy, and the unresolved questions surrounding her death.

A Tribute to Venus Xtravaganza

I’m Your Venus (2024) is a deeply personal project that centers on the biological family of Venus and the found family she built with the House of Xtravaganza. Directed by Kimberly Reed, the documentary explores the emotional journey of Venus’ brothers—John, Joe, and Louie Pellagatti—as they attempt to reopen her cold case. Alongside them is Gisele Alicea, the current mother of the House of Xtravaganza, who plays a crucial role in helping the family understand Venus’ life and the world she lived in.

The film includes interviews with those who knew Venus, archival footage, and modern-day efforts to seek justice. It also delves into the complex relationships between Venus and her biological family, revealing moments of tension and misunderstanding. Despite these challenges, the documentary highlights the deep love and connection that still exists among those who cared for Venus.

The Broader Impact of Paris is Burning

Paris is Burning was groundbreaking in its portrayal of the ballroom scene, giving voice to individuals who had long been ignored or misrepresented in mainstream media. The film humanizes the participants, showcasing their hopes, fears, and struggles. For Venus, it was a chance to express her dreams and identity, even as she faced the harsh realities of discrimination and violence.

However, the documentary has also sparked controversy. Some critics argue that director Jennie Livingston may have exploited the participants for her own artistic vision. In response, films like How Do I Look (2006) and Kiki (2016) emerged as unofficial sequels, aiming to give more agency to the ballroom community and address some of the concerns raised about Paris is Burning.

A Continuing Story of Resilience

Even today, the legacy of Paris is Burning continues to influence and inspire. The film’s depiction of found families—groups of LGBTQ+ individuals who support one another in the face of rejection from traditional family structures—remains relevant. I’m Your Venus expands on this theme by examining the other side of Venus’ life: the relationship between her biological family and the community that became her second home.

The documentary also touches on broader issues facing the LGBTQ+ community, including the ongoing AIDS crisis and the increasing legislative attacks on queer rights. Venus’ murder serves as a painful reminder of the dangers that trans people, particularly trans women of color, continue to face.

A Moving Companion Piece

While I’m Your Venus is centered around the true crime aspect of Venus’ life, it is ultimately a deeply emotional film. It captures the pain, confusion, and love of those who knew her, offering a powerful tribute to a life that was cut short. The film’s raw honesty and emotional depth make it a fitting companion to Paris is Burning, ensuring that Venus’ story continues to be told and remembered.

Through its exploration of family, identity, and justice, I’m Your Venus honors Venus Xtravaganza and the enduring impact of the ballroom culture that shaped her life. It reminds us that while the fight for LGBTQ+ rights may not always be visible, it is never forgotten.