From The Streets To The Screen: Female Skaters In Film

Female skaters have been carving their way into the skateboarding world for decades, but there’s nothing quite like seeing their stories hit the big (or small) screen. From raw documentaries to iconic moments in indie films, women in skateboarding are finally getting the recognition they deserve—both on the pavement and in front of the camera. Let’s dive into some of the most iconic skate films and documentaries that celebrate female skaters and their unique journeys.

The OGs: “Skate Kitchen” and “Betty”

If you haven’t seen Skate Kitchen (2018), drop everything and watch it. Seriously, it’s not just a movie—it’s a vibe. Directed by Crystal Moselle, this film follows a group of NYC skater girls navigating friendships, heartbreak, and life in the city while shredding on their boards. What makes it special? The cast includes real-life skaters from the all-girl skate crew Skate Kitchen, which gives the movie an authentic, gritty feel.

“Betty”

Off the success of Skate Kitchen, HBO gave us Betty (2020), a series that digs even deeper into the lives of these skaters. With plenty of drama, laughs, and insane skating, it’s a binge-worthy look at what it’s like to be a girl in a male-dominated scene.

“This Way” – Empowerment on Film

Directed by the legendary skater and filmmaker Amelia Brodka, This Way is a documentary that captures the growth of the women’s skateboarding movement. Brodka travels the world, speaking with female skaters about their experiences in the industry and the struggles of competing for equal recognition. It’s not just a film—it’s a rallying cry for more inclusivity in skateboarding.

“Learning to Drown” – A Deep Dive into Resilience

This award-winning short documentary follows the life of pro snowboarder and skateboarder Jess Kimura. While it’s not exclusively about skateboarding, the film shows Kimura’s journey through grief and injury, and how skating helped her find purpose again. It’s raw, emotional, and reminds us that skating isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifeline.

“Quit Your Day Job” – A Must-Watch Crew Flick

Quit Your Day Job (2016) was the first all-female skateboarding full-length film, and it’s an absolute banger. Featuring skaters like Lacey Baker, Samarria Brevard, and Vanessa Torres, it’s packed with jaw-dropping tricks and the kind of camaraderie that only skaters understand. It’s a love letter to skating, showing that women have been absolutely crushing it for years.

The Future of Female Skaters on Screen

The skate world is changing, and so is the media around it. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given rise to countless female skaters who share their stories, tricks, and journeys. Filmmakers are taking note, and we’re starting to see more diverse, authentic stories hitting the screen.

But let’s be real—there’s still work to do. The more we support and celebrate these films, the louder the message: Women belong in skateboarding, both in the streets and on the screen.