Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off

I never write reviews but there hasn't been one yet for this. I got chills at the end and I never get chills in movies. I never even was that big into skating as a kid I eventually realized it wasn't my thing. This documentary is inspiring and one of my favorite movies I have seen this year so far. More people should watch.

If you don't know what it looks or feels like to drop into a 9 or 12 foot vert, or crash and burn on a 6 foot bowl made of cement, you will still understand what Tony Hawk's life was like, from this documentary.

It's very genuine, and tells a great story of one of the best skateboarders, and second generation pioneers of all of skateboarding.

I've always had so much admiration for the world of skating even though I've never attempted anything more than turning a corner on a board. Traditional sports are full of excellence and consistence when it comes to performing. Skating takes all that to the next level and adds a level of grit, determination and persistence I could only dream of acquiring.

Hawk's story, and in the broader narrative the history of skating, is one of passion so pure it's motivation at the highest level for anyone who's ever wanted to achieve something in their lifetime. The characters the Duplass brothers have assembled here do a phenomenal job rounding out Tony's life and focusing in on true themes of self acceptance, ambition and the human experience through achievement in sport.

Critics have complained about the lack of focus on Tony Hawk specifically, but I found this to be so engaging with the broader things of what Tony has valued in the world, allowing others to also put forth their perspectives on his life. Wonderful piece for anyone who's sat on the sidelines like me. Hope to pick up a Pro Skater again to really pump that nostalgia back into my veins.

The wheels haven't fallen off yet. Keep riding.

This is a fascinating documentary about the life of Tony Hawk, wunderkind skateboarder extraordinaire. A passionate, persevering pioneer of over 100 tricks, there is a reason he was the National Skateboard Association world champion for twelve years. The film follows Hawk back to childhood with amazing footage of the beginning of his career, his entry into The Bones Brigade, his father's managerial involvement in the sport, early struggles, landing the 900, his success at the X Games, the risks, sheer compulsion, and punishment his body takes, as well as his personal development. This film is so well produced. Tony and his fellow skaters including Stacy Peralta, Duane Peters, Rodney Mullen, Lance Mountain, Mike McGill, Steve Cabellero, and Christian Hosoi and more are interviewed, as well as Hawk's sister and brother. I enjoyed listening to them all, especially his brother, The Bones Brigade founder Peralta, and Rodney Mullen who is mesmerizing to listen to.

It was an awesome an humbling experience to watch Tony evolve during his early years at Del Mar. The Del Mar skate park allowed so many of us to take skateboarding to the next level. Meeting Tony there in the 80s inspired me for a lifetime, and meeting up with him again at the 2010 Olympics (watching Shawn W) inspired a renewed energy. I will always be thankful to have been present to watch him be unbelievable and extraordinary. - Doid.