Skateboard Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Skateboard" utilizes an AVC encoded image with a 1.84:1 aspect ratio, showcasing a 2023 restoration that carefully balances authenticity with refreshment. The cinematography, reflective of its era, results in a softer visual experience with limited fine detail. Notably, period-specific elements such as 1970s frizzy hairstyles and fashion subtleties are less defined, though the locales provide adequate dimensionality, excellently capturing Southern California's golden ambiance. Interiors and skate courses come through acceptably, with colors receiving a tasteful enhancement—brighter reds and yellows inject vitality without overshadowing the film’s inherent aesthetic. The pervasive grain, albeit with a chunkier quality, serves to maintain the film's historical essence.

The restoration keeps the integrity of the original source material, delivering an experience that remains true to the film's original demeanor without skewing towards over-enhancement. Although the film doesn't appear particularly clean or polished by today’s high-definition standards, the absence of compression artifacts and well-managed grain provide a substantial improvement from earlier standard-definition transfers. Additionally, the decision to preserve the natural vignettes and occasional sight of the aperture plate underscores an effort to retain the film’s authentic qualities. Overall, this Blu-ray release presents "Skateboard" in a markedly better light than previous versions, making it a commendable transfer for archival purposes and an appreciable enhancement of the viewing experience.

The Blu-Ray audio presentation of "Skateboard" is delivered through a 2.0 Dolby Digital mix, adequately conveying the essence of the original sound design albeit with hints of aging. Dialogue clarity is maintained, showing intelligibility and adequate performance from the original recordings, though minor technical limitations are detectable. The soundtrack employs a largely mono mix, positioning audio precisely when playback settings are optimized. Despite some dialogues being poorly captured, they remain coherent enough to support the narrative.

Musical elements, primarily a 70s score by Mark Snow, are decently rendered but lack the vibrancy and dynamism modern audio formats might provide. The absence of higher-resolution audio does not significantly impact the presentation quality, suggesting that even in its original theatrical runs, the audio design was not a focal point. Atmospherics are basic, capturing essential ambient noises such as crowd sounds and street activity, which contribute modestly to the overall auditory landscape.

Overall, while it's apparent that the audio aspect may never have been a high priority for "Skateboard," this Blu-Ray transfer offers a faithful reproduction of its vintage sound palette. The mix provides nostalgic appeal for an era-specific sonic experience without introducing significant distortion or noise artifacts.

The Blu-ray extras for "Skateboard" offer a comprehensive look behind the scenes and into the making of the film. The centerpiece is an insightful commentary featuring director George Gage and actor Tony Alva, offering reflections and anecdotes on creating the film, exploring their long-term friendship and the casting process aimed at authenticity with top skateboarders of the era. A new video interview with Gage delves into his inspiration for the film, citing "The Bad News Bears," and experiences during filming, including a personal cameo. Additional content includes a repeat but crucial Safety PSA, advocating for safe skateboarding practices, and a theatrical trailer presented in high-definition. The accompanying booklet enriches the offering with a director’s statement, essay by Jenny Gage, and Tony Alva’s 1978 Skateboard glossary, providing historical context.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Director George Gage and Tony Alva discuss the film's making.
• Interview with Director George Gage: Explores film inception and production memories.
• Safety PSA: Offers safety tips for young skateboarders.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original high-definition trailer.
• Booklet: Includes director’s statement, essay by Jenny Gage, Tony Alva's glossary.

"Skateboard" (1978), helmed by George Gage, offers a technically crafted glimpse into the skateboarding culture of the 1970s. The film integrates a thin plot revolving around Manny, played by Allen Garfield, a struggling man burdened by debt. Attempting a last-ditch scheme to form a professional skateboarding team, the L.A. Wheels, Manny navigates a series of exhibitions and competitions across California. Though the narrative lacks depth, the skateboarding sequences inject dynamic energy into the production, capturing the essence of the era's burgeoning sport with appearances by real-life skateboarding legend Tony Alva and teen idol Leif Garrett.

The screenplay, co-written by Gage and Richard A. Wolf, mirrors the style of "The Bad News Bears," placing Garfield in a Matthau-like role of a hapless coach. While Garfield’s character struggles with managerial competence, his dynamic with assistant coach Millicent, portrayed by Kathleen Lloyd, introduces a parental figure to balance his shortcomings. Skateboarding scenes dominate the film, showcasing freestyle tricks and balance that engage viewers seeking authentic displays of the sport. These visual sequences make up for the otherwise formulaic narrative that takes a backseat to action-packed displays.

While primarily a vehicle for skateboarding exhibitions, "Skateboard" uses its period-appropriate style, complete with sequences in skate parks and on urban streets, to nostalgically capture the subculture of its time. Its Blu-Ray presentation from Factory 25 retains thematic consistency with 1970s-inspired cover art and packaging that includes director notes and a glossary of skateboarding terms by Tony Alva. Although the disc's menu presentation might feel dated, akin to traditional DVDs, it serves its purpose effectively, providing an authentic touch to this retro cinematic experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Skateboard" captures an evocative snapshot of the 1970s skateboarding scene, providing a compelling visual and auditory experience. The film showcases the development of skateboarding as a rebellious sport, epitomized through its exciting depiction of the Burbank Downhill Invitational. Despite the storyline's loose approach to character arcs and team dynamics, the skate sequences shine with authenticity. While the movie’s budget constraints are apparent, the quality of the Blu-ray presentation is commendable, enhancing the vintage visuals and audio, and allowing viewers to truly appreciate its status as a 70s youth film.

While "Skateboard" might struggle with depth in storytelling, lacking in strong character engagement and narrative tightness, it excels as a nostalgic journey through a defining era in skate culture. The film offers fascinating glimpses into the adolescence and rebelliousness of the time, capturing a period when skateboarding was transitioning from novel pastime to cultural phenomenon. The movie's charm lies in its ability to transport audiences back to this formative time, igniting fond memories or an appreciation for those new to its history.

In conclusion, although "Skateboard" has its imperfections, its remarkable skateboarding sequences and historical value make it a worthy addition to any collection. This Blu-ray edition undoubtedly presents the film in its best possible light, offering a genuine experience for enthusiasts of the sport and admirers of 1970s cinema alike. Despite its narrative shortcomings, the film remains a charming homage to an era that shaped skateboarding as we know it today. Recommended for nostalgic viewers and anyone interested in the origins of this spirited sport.