The “Ground Glass” series, a recurring segment on Jenkem, showcases skateboarding captured through the lens of Australian videographer James Thomson. This particular installment features the skilled skater Ronnie Kessner navigating the urban landscape of Bangkok, Thailand. What makes this series unique is its use of 16mm film, a format that’s both expensive and technologically dated, adding a distinct visual appeal to the skateboarding footage.
The Allure of 16mm Film in Skateboarding
James Thomson’s dedication to filming skateboarding on 16mm is a testament to his artistic vision. In an age dominated by digital clarity, the warm, grainy texture of 16mm film stands out. It costs around $50 per minute to shoot on this format, making it a less practical choice compared to modern digital options. However, the aesthetic it produces offers a unique feel that digital videos often lack. The resulting footage possesses a certain crispness and warmth reminiscent of old Transworld montages, creating a visual beauty that blends the old with the new, showing modern skateboarding through an antiquated lens.
The challenge with using 16mm goes beyond the cost of the film itself. It requires a high level of skater consistency to pull off. Because of the limitations of the format, skaters need to land tricks cleanly and consistently, without the luxury of editing out minor imperfections that digital formats allow.
Ronnie Kessner: Style and Consistency
Ronnie Kessner proved to be the perfect fit for this project. His ability to consistently land tricks with style makes him an ideal subject for 16mm film. James captured him in action throughout their trip to Bangkok, featuring a mix of the city’s diverse settings and Kessner’s bolted ledge tricks. The resulting footage encapsulates the energy of Bangkok, blended with the raw aesthetics of 16mm film.
Ronnie Kessner performing a trick on a ledge in Bangkok
Another trick by Ronnie Kessner captured on 16mm film
A different angle of Ronnie Kessner executing a ledge trick
The combination of Kessner’s skill and the 16mm film format creates a visually stunning skateboarding video, a throwback to the days when skateboarding videos had a rawness and authenticity that’s often missing in today’s polished digital productions.
Ronnie Kessner skateboarding in an urban setting
A wide shot of Ronnie Kessner skating, showing the urban landscape
A Blend of Old and New
The “Ground Glass” series, and particularly this episode featuring Ronnie Kessner, provides a unique viewing experience. It’s a blend of the old and new, showcasing modern skateboarding through an antiquated medium. The choice of 16mm film over digital video allows the audience to appreciate the art of skateboarding in a different light, focusing on the raw talent and the beauty of the environment. James Thomson’s ability to find the right skaters and locations makes the series a must-watch for anyone interested in skateboarding culture and the artistry of filmmaking.
Conclusion
The “Ground Glass” series, with its commitment to 16mm film, continues to offer a refreshing perspective in the world of skateboarding videos. Ronnie Kessner’s performance in Bangkok, captured by James Thomson’s camera, is a testament to the enduring appeal of analog filmmaking and the timeless art of skateboarding. This installment not only showcases Kessner’s skill but also highlights the unique aesthetic that only 16mm can offer, reminding viewers of the beauty found in blending old technology with contemporary skateboarding.
Video by: James Thomson
