Review of Skateland (2011) by Paul J — 30 Nov 2011

Cast: Ashley Greene, Shiloh Fernandez, Casey LaBow, James LeGros, Haley Ramm, Brett Cullen, Taylor Handley, A.J. Buckley, D.W. Moffett.

Director: Anthony Burns.

Summary: Director Anthony Burns and screenwriter brothers Heath and Brandon Freeman tell the story of 19-year-old Ritchie Wheeler (Shiloh Fernandez), who finds his life at a crossroads when the Texas roller rink where he works is forced to shut its doors. Set in the early 1980s, this is a coming-of-age tale in which the hapless but hopeful protagonist must contend with his parents' divorce, shifting friendships and making choices on the path to adulthood.

My Thoughts: "I actually really enjoyed this movie. It had the essence of one of my favorite films, 'Dazed and Confused'. I especially got that feeling from Taylor Handley who plays Kenny Crawford. He reminded me of a younger version of Matthew McConaughey. The southern drawl and all. I love the setting of the film. I am a big fan of the 80's and it's films. The movie has a great sound track to boot. The acting is also strong. The film really captures life in the 80's. In those year's the popular hangout was a skating rink. But the closing of it isn't really the main focus the summary leads you to believe it is. It mostly stands for an ending for a new beginning for the character Ritchie Wheeler. It's a great small independent film that in the end doesn't really exceed in delivering the depth it probably intended for. I could have also done with more character development. But as it is, I did enjoy it and would watch it again.".