The skateboarding world often finds itself looking at the younger generation with a mix of curiosity and a touch of skepticism. But after watching Tristan Warren’s latest video, Money Time, it’s clear that the future of skateboarding is in capable hands. This video isn’t just a collection of tricks; it’s a vibrant montage that captures the energy and spirit of the current skate scene, with a nostalgic nod to the legends of the past.
Money Time offers something for everyone, from seasoned skaters to newcomers to the sport. It’s a rollercoaster of hijinx, featuring everything from unexpected street encounters to a European escapade that ends with an arrest. The video also showcases the talent of skateboarding icons such as Kader Sylla, Sunny Suljic, and Skater Pat, solidifying its place as a must-watch for any skate enthusiast. To gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind this captivating project, we interviewed the mastermind himself, Tristan Warren, and also had our friend Deen Babakhyi document the premiere party.
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An Interview with Tristan Warren, the Creative Force Behind “Money Time”
You capture a lot of spontaneous moments on the streets. Is that something you actively seek out, or do you simply keep your camera rolling?
I keep the camera rolling constantly. You never know when something amazing is going to happen. I’ve missed countless incredible moments in the past because my camera was dead, the action happened too fast, or my camera got knocked out of my hands. I’ve witnessed some truly wild stuff this way.
What exactly is the “JinxPro,” and how did it get its name?
I started calling my GoPro the JinxPro because it seems to capture so many unpredictable moments. It’s the perfect camera for this because of its small size, which allows me to quickly take it out whenever something unexpected occurs. I keep the JinxPro in my left pocket so I am always ready to film.
There is a clip in your video promo that features people looting a store. Did you take anything yourself?
That was during the LA riots, and I did not steal anything. I never have and never will. I simply had to document that historic moment. I just kept the camera rolling and stayed out of the way.
How often have you nearly gotten into a fight while filming strangers?
It’s a pretty common occurrence. I’m always very aware of my surroundings, because you never know when someone will try to steal the camera or attack you. I’m always looking around.
Do you understand why some people get upset by your filming?
Yes, I do, but in today’s world, we are constantly being filmed by phones, security cameras, and other devices we might not even see. I feel like I am in the right. I’m simply documenting my environment, and if someone doesn’t want to be on camera, I will point it elsewhere.
I had an experience when I was 11 that taught me a valuable lesson. I was filming a session on Go Skateboarding Day in downtown LA when a kid stole my camera right out of my hand. My brother and our friend chased him, but he got away. I never got the camera back, and from that day forward, I have never let anyone get away with taking my camera. I’m grateful for that experience, because it taught me to be more aware and cautious.
The skater featured in the first part of your video takes a lot of hard slams. Do you ever worry about him?
I do worry about O’Connor Nelson, but he’s a true legend. He commits to his tricks and gets right back up after every fall. Nobody else does it like him. He’s a young legend in the making.
Would you call him a masochist?
[Laughs] No, he hates falling.Slam clips can be just as exciting as clean tricks, right?
Absolutely, slam clips show the intensity and dedication of the skater. OC’s slams are incredibly wild and powerful.
When you’re not filming, how do you spend your time?
I’m usually editing, learning, watching movies, hanging out with my friends, exploring LA on my bike, spending time with my girlfriend, and always trying to live life to the fullest.
Have you been able to make any money from filming?
Yes, I have been filming for Adidas with Kader, and they’ve been paying me very well. I’m grateful to Adidas and looking forward to working with them more in the future.
What other work do you do?
I help my dad with his plastic business, Santa Monica Plastics, and I also film other things besides skateboarding. I’ve collaborated with Kerwin Frost on some videos for his events in Long Beach and New York. Additionally, I filmed the Kanye and Drake Free Hoover concert. Filming Kanye was a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
I want to film everything, with skating being my primary focus. But I also want to explore other subjects and learn from new experiences.
Which filmmakers do you admire and draw inspiration from?
I’m a huge fan of the Safdie Brothers. Their storytelling abilities are incredible and inspiring. Quentin Tarantino is another influence because he takes elements from different types of movies and combines them into something unique. I want to direct my own movie one day, incorporating everything I’ve learned from the great directors to tell my story.
When you’re filming Sunny Suljic, do people ever recognize him?
Yes, Sunny is a young legend. He takes pictures with everyone and shows them love.
Do you think making skate videos helps you attract women?
I have a girlfriend, and I like to think that my videos played a role in attracting her to me when we first met.
Since you guys are skating at iconic LA spots, do you ever worry about repeating tricks that have already been done?
That’s why we try to find new spots to skate that haven’t been skated before. However, it’s difficult because most spots in LA have been done before. I spend a lot of time searching for new locations, usually by biking around the city.
How would you describe the skate scene in California to someone who doesn’t live here?
Skating in LA is very relaxed. The weather is always nice, and you don’t have to worry about rain or cold weather. That is one of the biggest advantages of skating in California. However, as I said earlier, a lot of the spots have been skated, but there are still a lot of spots left to discover. The vibe is very positive and there is a lot of love among the skate community. If you’re thinking about skating in California, come out here and experience it for yourself. Some people love it, and some don’t.
What would you say to people who call LA fake?
I’d say, “Have a good one,” and just move on. LA is amazing and truly one of a kind.
Video by: Tristan Warren
Photos by: Deen Babakhyi
Q&A by: Larry Lanza
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