Skateboarding on Screen: Iconic Films Through the Years

June 25, 2024 Comments Off

Skateboarding has always had a unique culture and influence, often reflected in cinema. Growing up as a skateboarder, I was always amazed whenever I saw skateboarding in movies that my parents and I were watching. E.T. was one of the first movies I saw that featured skateboarding. While some movies include brief skateboarding cameos, others dive deeply into the world of skateboarding, portraying its essence, culture, and the stories of those who live and breathe it. Here are some iconic skateboard movies that have made significant impacts on cinema.

Thrashin’ (1986)

Thrashin’ (1986) – Another cult classic among skateboarders, like me who started skating in the early 2000s, always hear older skaters tell stories about this movie. Directed by David Winters, “Thrashin’” stars Josh Brolin, Robert Rusler, and Pamela Gidley. This amazing movie features professional skateboarders like Tony Alva, Tony Hawk, Christian Hosoi, and Steve Caballero. Set against the backdrop of a Los Angeles summer, the film centers around a skateboard competition and the rivalry between two skateboarding gangs. Its authentic depiction of 1980s skateboarding culture, including the fashion, slang, and music of the time, has left a lasting impression on fans and skaters alike. The performances of real-life skateboard legends added a layer of authenticity, making it a seminal film for anyone interested in the history of skateboarding.

Gleaming the Cube (1989)

Gleaming the Cube (1989) – This is another movie that I often saw mentioned in magazine interviews with professional skateboarders in the early 2000s. Many of them grew up watching this film and cited it as an early inspiration for their skateboarding careers. Directed by Graeme Clifford, “Gleaming the Cube” stars Christian Slater as Brian Kelly, a young skateboarder who embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his adopted brother’s mysterious death. The film showcases several professional skateboarders, including Mike McGill, Eric Dressen, Rodney Mullen, Mike Vallely, Lance Mountain, Natas Kaupas, Tony Hawk, and Tommy Guerrero—a legendary group of skateboarders. Beyond its gripping mystery plot, the movie is celebrated for its thrilling skateboarding sequences and its depiction of skateboarding as a means of rebellion and self-expression. The title itself, “Gleaming the Cube,” became a phrase synonymous with pushing oneself to the limit, resonating with skateboarders and fans who admired the film’s blend of action and emotion.

These films not only entertain but also offer a glimpse into the world of skateboarding, its culture, and the lives of those who are passionate about it. Whether you’re a skater or just a fan, these movies are sure to leave a lasting impression, capturing the essence and evolution of skateboarding through the decades.

Grind (2003)

If you were a skateboarder in the early 2000s like myself, you always heard about this funny movie from your skateboarder friends. This film also gave me a glimpse of what the process of becoming a pro skateboarder is really like. Directed by Casey La Scala, “Grind” is a comedy that follows four skateboarders on a road trip to pursue their dream of becoming professional skateboarders. The movie features professional skaters such as Bam Margera, Jason Acuña, Chad Fernandez, and Bob Burnquist. The story captures the essence of youthful ambition and the camaraderie among skateboarders as they navigate various challenges and adventures on their journey. While the film’s humor and lighthearted tone set it apart, it also highlights the determination and passion required to succeed in the world of professional skateboarding. “Grind” was one of the first skateboard-focused films to hit mainstream cinemas, making it a memorable experience for many fans and an entry point for new enthusiasts.

Lords of Dogtown (2005)

Directed by Catherine Hardwicke, this film is based on the true story of the pioneers of skateboarding, including Stacy Peralta, Tony Alva, and Jay Adams. The film chronicles the impact of the Zephyr skateboard team (Z-Boys) on skateboarding culture in the 1970s. Set in Venice, California, the movie explores how these young surfers-turned-skateboarders revolutionized the sport with their innovative styles and fearless attitudes. The film’s gritty realism and attention to detail in portraying the lives and struggles of its characters provide an insightful look into the origins of modern skateboarding. The performances, combined with a compelling narrative, make “Lords of Dogtown” an essential film for understanding the roots of skateboarding culture and its enduring legacy. This is another movie that I grew up watching during my early years in skateboarding, and it taught me to appreciate the history and the roots of these pioneers. It also made me respect the legends who paved the way for us to enjoy skateboarding today.

Street Dreams (2009)

Paul Rodriguez in a movie? Get your popcorn ready. Directed by Chris Zamoscianyk, “Street Dreams” stars professional skateboarder Paul Rodriguez and delves into the struggles and aspirations of a young skateboarder aiming to make it in the professional skateboarding world. The movie features top professional skateboarders of the time, including Sean Malto, Rob Dyrdek, Ryan Sheckler, and Terry Kennedy. Through its authentic portrayal of the skateboarding scene, the film explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the challenges of balancing personal dreams with societal expectations. “Street Dreams” stands out for its realistic depiction of the skateboarding community and its emphasis on the importance of dedication and resilience in achieving success. The film’s narrative resonates with both skateboarders and anyone pursuing their passions against the odds. That trick PRod made in this movie the “NAC” was insane; it’s an ender worthy of any skateboard video at that time.

Mid90s (2018)

One of the best skateboarding movies I have watched, in my opinion. Directed by Jonah Hill, “Mid90s” is a coming-of-age film set in Los Angeles during the mid-1990s. The story follows a 13-year-old boy named Stevie who finds his place among a group of skateboarders. The film’s authentic depiction of skateboarding culture during that era, including the music, fashion, and attitudes, has made it a critical darling in recent years. Through Stevie’s journey, “Mid90s” explores themes of belonging, identity, and the search for self-acceptance. The film’s raw and intimate portrayal of adolescence, combined with its nostalgic homage to 90s skateboarding, offers a poignant and immersive experience. Jonah Hill’s direction brings a sense of authenticity and respect to the skateboarding community, making “Mid90s” a significant addition to the genre. By the way, the lead actor in this movie, Sunny Suljic, is a good skateboarder who showed his talent on and off the board. Plus this video gives me an idea how amazing that era was for skateboarding!