The premiere of Ruining Skateboarding in Brooklyn was an eye-opening experience. Unlike typical skate video premieres, this event was filled with genuine joy and connection. Queer individuals and young women mingled with established skaters, united by the celebration of this groundbreaking video. The man behind the lens, Leo Bañuelos, not only delivered a standout part in the video but was also its editor. I caught up with Leo to delve into the creation of this film and how it’s reshaping the landscape of skateboarding.
Q&A with Leo Bañuelos
What’s the gayest thing about skateboarding?
It’s the intense fascination guys have with each other’s style, fits, and personal lives. The way these masculine, straight men are so invested in other straight men, often using “no homo,” is ironic and hilarious. It’s undeniably gay, [laughs].
When did There become distinct from Unity, and how are they different?
The shift started around late 2021. We had been pushing Jeff to start a team. He sent out texts, and we ran with it. Many people know Unity but are unfamiliar with There. They’re quite similar, sharing the same art and people. However, Unity is more of a community effort—inclusive, for everyone, and not something to be branded or capitalized on. It’s purely about love, community, and support.
There, on the other hand, is the core skate team version that engages with capitalism a bit. While that’s not our main intention, we have a team and sell boards and products.
So, There is the traditional board brand, and Unity is closer to a non-profit?
Yes, that’s a good way to put it. Unity is for everyone, and while There is also for everyone, we have a team, [laughs].
Jeff Seattle Unity Meetup Premiere Trip 1
There is now distributed under DLX. When did you realize that was confirmed?
It was in the works for over a year, but things weren’t official right away. There were many meetings. We had to keep it secret, but we’re really excited about it because it will take some of the load off Jeff [Cheung] and Gabe [Ramirez]. DLX has a strong legacy, and Ashley and Jim are MVPs over there. I’m eager to see where this goes, though I’ve heard that some people at DLX aren’t too happy about it, [laughs].
That’s not cool.
Yeah, I just think, get over it. It is what it is. I don’t know who exactly, and truthfully, I don’t really care to know. I figure it’s some random, jaded dudes clinging to an outdated view of skateboarding.
Leo Marbie SF Premiere Trip 1
What’s essential for you when you’re editing skate videos?
I used to believe I could only edit while high. I thought the creative juices were flowing because of marijuana, but now, sometimes I smoke and just get overwhelmed. I go back and forth. I enjoy getting high, but sometimes it’s too much, and I don’t get anything done. Other times, it leads to a beautiful, productive session.
Besides that, I typically prefer to edit late at night. During the day, it’s hard to stay inside if the sun is out.
“I like to get high but sometimes I get too high and I don’t get anything done, but other times I get high, and it’s a beautiful, beautiful session.”
It seems like during the filming process, people were continually added to the team?
Yes, Sam was added, and then Myles. They’re both great additions. We have a stacked team. Now, we’re just waiting to see if Nadair or I gets kicked off first [laughs]. He’s in his 30s and our only straight rider. I always joke, “You gotta get out of here, straighty!” But he’s like a brother to me. He has my favorite part in the video and the best fits. He’s our unassumingly straight rider.
Leo Brandon LA Theater Premiere Trip 1
The music choices felt perfect for the skaters’ personalities and style, like in Marbie and Chandler’s parts. Did everyone have input on their song?
Since this was There’s first full-length video, and a first part for many of the team members, I wanted to collaborate with everyone. It was difficult at first because I wasn’t used to giving up control, but it was refreshing.
Some didn’t have initial song choices and were unsure what they wanted to skate to, so I sent playlists that I thought would match. We went back and forth to find the best fit. I’ve had skaters in the past suggest skating to Lil Wayne, which I would have to decline because the music didn’t match their skating or the video. Sometimes, filmers and editors have a better sense of what works.
“I’ve had skaters in the past suggest that they skate to Lil Wayne and I was like, ‘Dude, we’re not doing that.’”
The video reminded me of Logan Lara’s 917 videos. Who inspires your editing style?
I don’t watch a ton of skate videos. I’ve always admired Matt Creasy and the Threads videos. Their editing style and the intimacy they create in their videos is something I strive for. I enjoy videos where you can tell that everyone genuinely enjoys each other’s company. They aren’t just skating together, but they actually like being around each other. If you can capture that in a video, it’s a recipe for greatness.
I also draw influence from Logan Lara, Pontus Alv, and Jacob Harris. I really like the Atlantic Drift videos and the general mood he creates. For example, Eleventh Hour.
LA Theater Premiere Trip 1
What does this video offer that might be new to skate videos?
The easy answer is this many queer skaters with this many parts together in a full-length video. It’s not the first queer skate video, but it definitely features the most queer skaters. It’s arguably the gayest skate video, and I’ll give us that.
It offers a different perspective on skateboarding. Ten years ago—even five years ago—I never would have expected this video to happen or be successful. The positive responses, especially from younger queer skaters calling it life-changing, have been heartwarming. Some older skaters have said they wish they had this growing up, which shows that we are offering something new and important.
“If you think some queer skaters robbing you of a sponsorship, I can assure you they’re not. I’m sure your shit just isn’t that sick.”
Skateboarders can be opinionated, so what would you say to those questioning the support for this?
Traditionally, skateboarders are used to seeing the most difficult and impressive tricks. People often forget that skaters get stoked on what they get stoked on, which is an individual experience. There are many skateboarders who have never seen what we’re doing and have been looking for it. They might not get stoked on the latest Thrasher edit or other popular videos. There’s a whole community who wants to see this, and it’s what gets them out and comfortable to be out and skateboard. If you question why some people are getting support, it’s because people are stoked on them, and they deserve it. If you think some queer skaters are stealing your sponsorships, I assure you they’re not. It’s probably just that your skating isn’t that good.
Myles Kien Tris LA Theater Premiere Trip 2
There’s been talk about gatekeeping in skating. Does skating sometimes need it?
I believe in a balance between gatekeeping and openness. You should be able to share your honest opinions, as long as you aren’t cruel. I’m guilty of gatekeeping at times, but I’ve also been reminded of different perspectives that help me open that gate. You’re entitled to your opinion, but you should also have an open mind if challenged.
So, it’s a two-way street. If you can give criticism, you should also be able to take it?
Exactly. That’s something I’m learning every day, [laughs].
Video by: Rey Choto & Leo Bañuelos
Photos courtesy of Leo Bañuelos
Interview by: Alexis Castro
