By Maria Esteves - January 8, 2008

The Fifth Annual New York AIDS Film Festival (NYAFF) 2007 premiere documentary film HOW DO I LOOK, directed by Wolfgang Busch ten-minute trailer was held at NYU, King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, Saturday, December 1, 11:00 AM.

HOW DO I LOOK is a magnificent documentary film based on the history of Vogue dance (the art of improvising dance and drama modeling presentation) that began in the 1970's in New York City. The film features various houses (a supportive, nurturing dance community who competes with each other) Balenciaga, Infiniti, LaBeija, Ninja, Xtravaganza; their experience with Ballroom competitions, awards, and the impact of AIDS on the community.

Since the inception of this documentary ten years ago, the following artists featured in the film have passed on: Eriq Christian Bazaar, Marcel Christian, Kenny Ebony, Angie Infiniti, Gerald Dupree LaBeija, Pepper LaBeija, Willi Ninja, Vila Omni, Mystery Royale, and Billy Pemperton.

Interviews included Carmen Xtravaganza, Octavia St. Laurent, Willi Ninja, Jose Xtravaganza (performed in Madonna's "Vogue" music video), Ross Infiniti, Pepper Labeija, Ricky & Anthony Revlon, and many others with special appearances by Kevin Aviance, Patricia Field, and Michael Musto.

My recollection of Vogue dance was at the Paradise Garage venue. Madonna perfectly captures the scene in her Vogue song lyrics "Don't just stand there, let's get to it, strike a pose, there's nothing to it, Vogue, Vogue!"

HOW DO I LOOK documentary film, directed by Wolfgang Busch, New York, 2006, 80 minutes, distributed by ART FROM THE HEART is available on DVD.