Skateboard Films You Need to Watch

Skateboarding isn’t just about tricks and style, it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and an art form. And what better way to celebrate it than through movies that capture the heart and soul of skating? Whether you're looking for inspiration, nostalgia, or just a good time, these are the best skateboard movies you need to watch.

Lords of Dogtown (2005)

This classic film is based on the real-life Z-Boys, a group of surfers from Venice, California, who revolutionised skateboarding in the 1970s. It captures the rebellious spirit of skateboarding, featuring real legends like Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta, with amazing vintage vibes and 70s-style skating. With epic pool-skating scenes and a killer soundtrack, this is a must-watch for any skater.

Mid90s (2018)

Directed by Jonah Hill, Mid90s follows a 13-year-old kid who finds himself immersed in the world of skateboarding and friendship in Los Angeles during the 90s. It's raw, nostalgic, and full of heart. It feels like a time capsule of 90s skate culture, with real skaters as actors, making it authentic and a coming-of-age story every skater can relate to.

Skate Kitchen (2018)

This indie film follows a teenage girl who joins an all-female skate crew in NYC and discovers a world of friendship, struggles, and self-expression. It focuses on female skaters, a rarity in skate films, with beautiful cinematography of NYC skate spots and a fresh, realistic take on modern skate culture.

The Bones Brigade: An Autobiography (2012)

If you want a documentary instead of a scripted film, Bones Brigade is the one. It tells the story of Tony Hawk, Rodney Mullen, and the legendary Powell Peralta team that shaped modern skateboarding. It features interviews with skate icons, showcases the rise of street skating and the evolution of tricks, and offers a deep dive into one of the most influential skate teams ever.

Dogtown and Z-Boys (2001)

If Lords of Dogtown was the Hollywood version, this documentary is the real deal. Narrated by Sean Penn, it tells the true story of the Zephyr skate team and how they changed the game. It includes real footage from the 70s, interviews with the actual Z-Boys, and a fascinating look at the birth of modern skateboarding.

Gleaming the Cube (1989)

This is the ultimate 80s skate movie, starring Christian Slater as a teenage skater who investigates his brother’s death. It’s a mix of detective thriller and skate culture, featuring real skating legends like Tony Hawk. It has pure 80s vibes with a mix of action and skating, featuring vintage skate spots from California.

Street Dreams (2009)

Starring real pro skaters like Paul Rodriguez and Rob Dyrdek, this movie follows a young skater chasing his dream of turning pro despite his family's disapproval. It features real pros doing their own stunts, captures the struggles of being a skater, and showcases tons of real-life skate spots.

Thrashin' (1986)

If you love cheesy 80s movies, Thrashin’ is a must-watch. It’s like The Karate Kid but with skateboarding. A young skater falls in love with a rival’s sister while competing in a downhill race. It offers classic 80s action and drama, features young Tony Hawk and the Bones Brigade, and delivers pure old-school skateboarding fun.

Skateboarding and film go hand in hand, capturing the thrill, culture, and raw energy of the sport. Whether you’re looking for a deep documentary or a fun, action-packed flick, these movies are all essential for any skate fan.