Skateboarding isn't just a sport; it's a lifestyle, a culture, and an art form. This collection of films captures the essence of skateboarding, from its raw energy to the community spirit. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a curious onlooker, these films offer a unique insight into the world of skateboarding, showcasing its history, the tricks, the personalities, and the sheer joy of riding. Here are ten films that celebrate the skateboarding scene, each with its own unique take on this vibrant subculture.
Thrashin' (1986)
Description: Two rival skaters from different backgrounds clash in a skateboarding competition, capturing the essence of 80s skate culture.
Fact: The film features Tony Alva, one of the original Z-Boys, in a supporting role.
Watch Now
Gleaming the Cube (1989)
Description: A classic skateboarding film where a young skater investigates his brother's death, blending action with skateboarding culture.
Fact: Christian Slater stars as the lead skater, and the film was one of the first to feature skateboarding prominently in a mainstream movie.
Watch Now
Dogtown and Z-Boys (2001)
Description: This documentary captures the rise of the Zephyr Skateboard Team in the 1970s, which revolutionized skateboarding with their aggressive style and innovative tricks.
Fact: The film was directed by one of the original Z-Boys, Stacy Peralta. It inspired the narrative feature film "Lords of Dogtown."
Watch Now
Lords of Dogtown (2005)
Description: A dramatized account of the same story as "Dogtown and Z-Boys," focusing on the lives of the skaters and the impact of their skateboarding on the culture.
Fact: Heath Ledger was cast as Skip Engblom, the team's manager, and the film features real-life skaters in minor roles.
Watch Now
Mid90s (2018)
Description: Directed by Jonah Hill, this film explores the life of a young boy who finds his identity through skateboarding in the mid-1990s.
Fact: The film was shot on 16mm film to capture the look and feel of the era.
Watch Now
Skate Kitchen (2018)
Description: A coming-of-age story about a teenage girl who finds a sense of belonging in a group of female skateboarders in New York City.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life all-female skate collective of the same name.
Watch Now
Street Dreams (2009)
Description: A story of a young skater who must choose between his dreams of becoming a pro and the responsibilities of family life.
Fact: The film features professional skateboarders like Rob Dyrdek and Paul Rodriguez.
Watch Now
Grind (2003)
Description: A group of friends embark on a road trip to become professional skateboarders, showcasing the fun and challenges of the skateboarding lifestyle.
Fact: The film features cameos from professional skateboarders like Bam Margera and Tony Hawk.
30 Days Free
The Search for Animal Chin (1987)
Description: This film follows the Bones Brigade as they search for the mythical Animal Chin, blending skateboarding with a whimsical adventure.
Fact: It was one of the first skateboarding films to incorporate a narrative storyline.
30 Days Free
The Bones Brigade Video Show (1984)
Description: This video was instrumental in popularizing skateboarding, showcasing the talents of the Bones Brigade team and their impact on the sport.
Fact: It was one of the first skate videos to be widely distributed and helped launch the careers of many pro skaters.
30 Days Free
