Watch Post Radical

Post Radical is a captivating documentary television series that first aired on Viceland in 2018, and it is a must-watch for everyone, especially those who are into the alternative world of skateboarding. The show, a brilliant addition to the world of sports documentaries, gives audiences a unique view of the sport from the perspective of professional skateboarder and Canadian local legend, Rick McCrank. In essence, the series is a cultural exploration of skateboarding as a sport with a global impact and as a form of art, revolutionizing the way we perceive this popular activity.

The premise of the show hinges on the notion that skateboarding is not simply a recreational activity or sport but a radical cultural phenomenon, an ethos with a dedicated global community that transcends national borders and socio-economic classes. It examines how skateboarding has grown to become a respected counterculture, providing countless individuals with a sense of identity and purpose. The nine-episode show tow viewers on an around-the-world voyage from America to Palestine, exploring local skateboarding cultures and scenes.

Each episode of Post Radical delves into a different aspect of skateboarding. For example, one episode may explore skateboarding in the context of the 90s hardcore punk scene, while another will examine the role skateboarding plays in transforming the lives of troubled youth. Some episodes feature renowned professional skateboarders, while others illuminate places where skateboarding hasn't been typically seen, such as war-torn regions or less economically affluent areas. This approach blends the lines between a travel show and a sport documentary, giving audiences a comprehensive insight into the world of skateboarding.

Rick McCrank, the show's host, is a veteran skateboarder with an intricate understanding of the sport and its culture. His passionate, genuine, and experienced approach throughout the series provides an authentic perspective that resonates with both long-time skateboarding enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. McCrank’s earnest curiosity seeks to understand and highlight the real people involved in skateboarding, from the professionals to the amateurs, and to showcase the culture, creativity, and community that surrounds it. He examines the trials and innovations of skateboarders globally, giving voice to their passions, their aspirations, and their struggles.

As McCrank leads viewers on this global skateboarding journey, he also explores the broader socio-cultural implications and impacts of the sport. This includes looking at the politics of skateboarding; the inclusivity and exclusivity associated with this subculture; its intersection with music, art, and fashion; and the way it is used as a means of expression or escape, as a survival tool, or even as a form of resistance. Using skateboarding as a lens, McCrank offers a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on issues such as gender inequality, economic disparity, and social justice.

Post Radical, much like skateboarding itself, is daring and adventurous in its content and execution and is laced with a subtle yet potent undercurrent of rebellion. The raw and emotive cinematography pairs perfectly with compelling narratives that draw the viewer in, letting them experience the world through the skateboarders' eyes. The show's narrative style is complemented by its raw visual aesthetic that mirrors the roughness and grittiness of the skateboarding world, yet also highlights its beauty and dynamism.

This series doesn't just give an insider's view of the skateboarding world; it contextualizes the sport within the larger societal framework, highlighting its evolving history and its transformative power. Combining travelogue-style storytelling with heartfelt narratives and subtle cultural commentary, Post Radical takes viewers on a distinctive journey that's equally informative and inspiring, celebrating the spirit of rebellion, imagination, and resilience embodied by the world of skateboarding.

In conclusion, Post Radical is more than just a show about skateboarding; it is an exploration into the hearts and minds of those who've embraced this counterculture and let it shape their lives. It's a tribute to the spirit of the skateboarder — resilient, unapologetic, and free-spirited. Whether you're a hardcore skater, a casual enthusiast, or someone with no prior interest or knowledge of the sport, Post Radical is sure to enchant you with its captivating narratives, rich world-building, and earnest celebration of a sport that's so much more than just a pastime.

Post Radical is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between July 10, 2018 and on Viceland (US)