Skate videos are known for their incredible tricks and unique style, but they often feature skits that add a touch of humor and storytelling. But how do these skits hold up under the scrutiny of a professional movie critic? We asked Kelly McClure, a writer and film critic, to share her thoughts on some iconic skate video skits. Kelly, who admits she “doesn’t know dick about skating” but has a soft spot for Bam Margera, provides an unfiltered and entertaining perspective.
Girl Skateboards’ “Mouse” – The Charlie Chaplin Homage
Eric Koston as Charlie Chaplin
David Lynch, in his book “Catching the Big Fish,” talks about the impact of California’s vibrant light on his work. This same feeling of brightness contrasted with darker undertones is present in Girl’s “Mouse” skit, where Eric Koston embodies the iconic Charlie Chaplin character. Koston, as the “lovable Little Tramp,” perfectly captures the character’s silent yearning with subtle expressions and physical comedy. While the background music is fitting, the critic notes that it would have been more impactful to hear the sound of Koston’s wheels rolling over the pavement, adding a layer of realism to the whimsical scene. This skit successfully evokes a similar feeling of surrealism and melancholy found in Lynch’s work, making it a unique and thought-provoking piece.
Girl Skateboards’ “Yeah Right!” – The Casual Owen Wilson
Owen Wilson casually sitting on a car bumper
The “Yeah Right!” skit featuring Owen Wilson stands out due to its casual and laid-back vibe. The simple premise of Owen Wilson casually sitting on an SUV, dropping the line “shit attitude,” makes this clip instantly watchable. The fact that this short scene includes Spike Jonze in the production credits only adds to its allure. It’s a reminder of a seemingly simpler time, capturing the easygoing nature of early 2000s culture. The anticipation builds as we wait until the very end to see Wilson finally step on a skateboard, making the final moment feel earned. It’s a fun and quirky snapshot of a moment in time.
Birdhouse’s “The End” – The Gritty 90s Mansion
A still from the Birdhouse "Mansion Skit"
The “Mansion Skit” from Birdhouse’s “The End” evokes a sense of nostalgia for the 90s. The critic was reminded of Teresa Taylor, the former Butthole Surfers drummer, whose role in Richard Linklater’s “Slacker” captured the essence of aimless afternoons. The skit’s aesthetic, from the setting to the soundtrack and the fonts, perfectly encapsulates the 90s counter-culture scene. At over 41 minutes long, the skit is extensive, yet the critic is captivated by its raw energy and the blend of absurd humor. It’s a wild ride filled with beer-guzzling characters, trailer parks, and nonsensical moments. The skit captures the unique and unapologetic spirit of the 90s, and its length only enhances the experience.
WKND’s “New Board” – An “American Psycho” Parody
The WKND crew parodying American Psycho
WKND’s “New Board” skit cleverly parodies the infamous business card scene from “American Psycho.” The skit avoids the pitfalls of many parodies by not trying too hard to be funny. Instead, it takes a clever twist by having skaters show off their new boards with the same narcissistic intensity as Patrick Bateman and his colleagues. Although the middle part might feel a bit slow, the beginning and ending, especially the hint of gore, make it worthwhile. The skit successfully captures the dark humor of its source material while adding a skateboarding spin, making it a successful and memorable parody.
Transworld’s “Free Your Mind” – A “Taxi Driver” Inspired Piece
Transworld's "Taxi Driver" skit
Transworld’s “Free Your Mind” skit, inspired by “Taxi Driver,” has a stylistic approach. The critic humorously notes that the intro could easily be mistaken for a gay porno, before pointing out the outdated laptops from 2003. Despite being filmed in the early 2000s, the skit emulates a 90s aesthetic, which is a deliberate and successful stylistic choice. The fast-paced editing, combined with a great soundtrack, keeps the viewer engaged. The skating is smooth and effortless, adding to the overall appeal. The skit’s high production quality is evident, showing that resources were well-spent, and it serves as a great example for others to follow.
DGK’s “Parental Advisory” – Edgy Youths
A still from the DGK "Parental Advisory" Skit
The DGK “Parental Advisory” skit has a distinctly 2012 vibe, according to the critic. It portrays edgy youths with a stereotypical mix of “youths and boobs and booze”. While the concept might not be new, the skit is intended to shock and push boundaries. The critic’s attention shifts at the halfway point when the skating becomes more prominent. The exaggerated and over-the-top nature of the skit leads the critic to wonder if the characters were made of rubber, further emphasizing the surreal and comical elements. While it might not be for everyone, the skit certainly stands out for its attempt at being provocative.
Conclusion
Skate video skits, as demonstrated by these examples, can be more than just comedic fillers. They can be creative and thought-provoking works of art that draw inspiration from various sources, including classic films and cultural movements. From the silent comedy of Charlie Chaplin to the dark humor of “American Psycho,” these skits add depth and personality to skate videos, enriching the overall viewing experience. While opinions may vary on their artistic merit, there’s no doubt that these skits provide a unique form of entertainment and a glimpse into the creative minds behind the lens.
Critiques by: Kelly McClure
Intro by: Ben Komins
Illustration by: Wilson Lucas
