Lords Of Dogtown

Usually not a fan of director Catherine Hardwicke, but this movie was pretty good. Lords of Dogtown was inspired by a true story. It's set in 1975 and is centered around four friends growing up and skating in Venice, CA. Stacy

John Robinson, Emile Hirsch (always the bad boy), Victor Rasuk and Michael Angarano are the main characters that are competing on a skate team. They are trying to impress skate/surf shop owner Heath Ledger (I LOVE YOU!) and prove something to themselves. These mere boys have to cope with family problems and teenage rivalry. The movie follows the kids as they skate in competitions and ultimately become famous as the skating craze hits southern California. There are "highs and lows", and (just when you think things can't get lower) even "lowers".

I can't stand Catherine Hardwicke and her films are even worse, usually. Unfortunately, I can't say that anymore. It started off slow and I didn't really follow it. Are they friends, are they not? Are they mad at each other, are they not? Wait...they are famous now? How'd that happen? The ending was great, I wouldn't change it. It's based on true events, so changing the end isn't really a choice. Whatev!

4 out of 5 STARS