This coming of age story is told in believably simple paint strokes and is more representative because of it. It steers well clear of comic cliches amid overblown and contrived circumstances. It might lack the intense action that would make it jump out at you assertively, it’s just more interested in mirroring real life.
Set in New York City and its outlying boroughs, it follows Camille (Rachelle Vinberg) an eighteen year old who is just starting to find her way in life. Coming from a fractured family unit and not fitting easily into any one category, she finally starts to find her way when she hooks up with a group of fellow female skateboarders.
The skateboarder lifestyle become a comfort to her and starts to inform her life’s decisions. The film also illustrates how gangs of girls can be every bit as unruly and profane as gangs comprised of boys. The fact Vinberg and a number of the other actors can actually skate becomes a tremendous asset to the film’s authenticity.
Decidedly aimed at a niche market, Skate Kitchen still has enough going for it to translate to other groups outside of just skaters. It joins films such a Jonah Hill’s Mid90s that use skateboarding as a backdrop for a successful investigation into teenage life.
The film is getting a very limited release and will screen at the following cinemas from January 17:
Queensland – Elizabeth Picture Theatre (Brisbane)
NSW – Golden Age Cinema & Bar (Sydney)
Victoria – ACMI (Melbourne)
Rob Hudson
www.facebook.com/SkateKitchenFilm
