'Paris Is Burning': Overhyped or Actually Revolutionairy? (My Hot Take)

Okay, okay, so I finally caved and watched 'Paris Is Burning.' I know, I know, everyone's been telling me it's, like, the most important documentary ever. And yeah, it's...interesting. I get the whole 'ballroom culture as escapism' thing, the struggle for acceptance, the obvious commentary on class and race. But honestly? I wasn't blown away as much as everyone else seems to be. Like, the voguing is cool and all, and some of the shade is definitely iconic (Dorian Corey's explanations were pure gold). But I couldn't help but feel a little...exploited, maybe? These folks are putting their lives on display, talking about wanting to be accepted into a mainstream society that actively shuns them, and then...we're just watching? Applauding? Where's the real change happening, besides giving some academics something to write about? I'm not saying it's wrong to document these things, but I kept wondering about the power dynamic at play here. And honestly, the whole 'legendary, stars, mother' terminology started grating on my nerves after a while. It just felt repetitive. Don't get me wrong, I respect the hustle and the creativity, especially considering the circumstances these people were in. But I think people need to calm down a bit with the 'revolutionary' claims. It's a snapshot, a glimpse. It doesn't solve anything, and maybe it even perpetuates some problematic perspectives (looking at you, Jennie Livingston). Maybe I'm just being a contrarian (shocking, I know), but I think there are more nuanced and less-celebrated documentaries out there that tackle similar themes with a bit more...care, perhaps? It's worth watching, I guess, just don't go in expecting a life-changing experience. Lower your expectations and maybe you'll actually enjoy it. Or hate it. Either way, let me know what you think. I'm probably wrong anyway. ;)