Watch Skaterdater

Skaterdater is a coming-of-age film that follows the journey of a group of young skaters who spend most of their days gliding down the streets, sidewalks, and walkways of their California town. The movie, released in 1966, was directed by Noel Black and features an all-female cast that includes Michael Mel, Melissa Mallory, and Gregg Carroll.

The film opens with a mesmerizing scene of the skaters cruising through the sun-drenched streets in slow motion, their movements graceful and fluid, captured masterfully by the cinematographer, Vance Burberry. As the skaters pass by and wave at the locals, we get a glimpse into their carefree and simple existence, far removed from the stresses of adulthood.

At the center of the story is a young boy, a member of the skater gang, who falls in love with a girl he sees at the skatepark. This girl, played by Melissa Mallory, is the only female skater in the group and stands out for her natural talent and beauty. The boy, played by Michael Mel, is shy and reserved, but his love for the girl gives him the courage to approach her.

As the film progresses, we see the two of them bonding over their shared love for skating, music, and art. The girl inspires the boy to be more confident, while he teaches her some new moves on the skateboard. However, their relationship is not without challenges, as the other skaters in the group, including a jealous ex-boyfriend, do not approve of their romance.

What sets Skaterdater apart from other coming-of-age films of its time is its unique blend of music, art, and athleticism. The film features an original soundtrack composed by Mike Curb and Nick Venet, which adds to the dreamlike quality of the movie. The music ranges from upbeat surf rock to swirling psychedelic pop and perfectly captures the mood of each scene.

Moreover, Skaterdater showcases some impressive skateboarding skills, which are a testament to the talent and dedication of the cast and crew. From sliding down railings to executing high-speed turns, the skaters perform stunts that were revolutionary for their time and set the standard for future skateboarding movies.

Apart from the skating scenes, Skaterdater also incorporates some experimental elements that make it stand out as a work of art. The film features several surreal sequences in which the skaters perform in slow motion, surrounded by a swirl of colors and patterns. These scenes are reminiscent of the psychedelic imagery popularized in the 1960s and add an otherworldly quality to the movie.

In conclusion, Skaterdater is a fascinating snapshot of youth culture in the 1960s, marked by a blend of athleticism, music, and art. The film captures the joys and struggles of adolescence with a poetic and dreamlike quality, making it an enduring classic. Whether you're a fan of skateboarding or not, this movie is a must-watch for anyone looking for a glimpse into a bygone era.