Often, certain works of art are immediately recognized as classics. Think of groundbreaking albums like Biggie’s Ready to Die or iconic films like Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather. This phenomenon also occurs in the world of skateboarding videos. Titles like Video Days, Mindfield, and Baker 3 are often mentioned as prime examples. However, one video that deserves more recognition in this conversation is Etnies’ High 5.
High 5 holds significance for multiple reasons. It was the first full-length skate video produced by a shoe brand. Considering today’s video landscape, it’s almost unbelievable that until 1995, only board companies and magazines were releasing skate videos. Many classic videos we cherish today, such as Stay Gold or Fully Flared, originated from shoe brands. High 5 played a crucial role in paving the way for their success.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of High 5 was Tom Penny’s brief yet unforgettable part. It unveiled the magic of the Cult of Tom to a wider audience, fundamentally changing the skateboarding scene.
To fully appreciate the impact of this video, we collaborated with video essay expert Alex Coles. He interviewed some of the key people behind the project. Together, they analyze the video’s legacy and its relevance 25 years later, as detailed in this video essay here.
Etnies High 5 video cover
The video essay explores the context surrounding the release of High 5. In the mid-90s, skateboarding videos were primarily the domain of board companies and magazines. Etnies, a shoe brand, broke this mold by investing in a full-length video, a move considered unprecedented at the time. This decision was significant as it marked a shift in the industry, demonstrating that shoe brands could also be major players in producing influential skate media.
The impact of High 5 extends beyond its historical significance. The video featured a talented team of skaters, each bringing a unique style and perspective to the project. However, the standout part that garnered most attention was Tom Penny’s. His segment, though brief, displayed an effortless grace and unmatched skill that had a lasting impact on skateboarding culture. Penny’s part in High 5 helped to solidify his legendary status, contributing to the “Cult of Tom” and influencing countless skaters worldwide.
Tom Penny skateboarding in Etnies High 5
Furthermore, the video essay delves into the technical aspects of High 5. The filming and editing techniques, while not as advanced as those used today, were innovative for their time. The video captured the raw energy of skateboarding and portrayed the skaters in an authentic and relatable way. This emphasis on realism resonated with viewers and helped to solidify the video’s place as a timeless classic. It’s a testament to how innovative filmmaking can leave a lasting impression, regardless of technological constraints.
The essay also analyzes the lasting legacy of High 5. It demonstrates how this video laid the groundwork for many shoe-brand videos that came after it. By being the first of its kind, Etnies took a gamble, a gamble that resulted in a game changer for the skateboard industry. The success of High 5 proved that shoe brands could create compelling skate videos that could rival those of traditional board companies. It marked a turning point and paved the way for the countless iconic videos we see today from shoe companies.
In conclusion, High 5 was more than just a skateboarding video; it was a cultural milestone. It broke the mold, launched trends, and introduced the world to the unmatched talent of Tom Penny. The impact of High 5 is still felt today and its influence continues to inspire skaters and filmmakers alike. This video essay, created by Alex Coles, serves as a valuable resource to understanding the significance and lasting impact of this skateboarding classic.
Video by: Alex Coles
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