If you loved the high-energy, rebellious spirit of 'Roller Junkies!' (2022), you're in for a treat! This article dives into 10 movies and shows that capture the same adrenaline-fueled, roller-skating subculture. Whether you're a fan of the sport, the drama, or the vibrant aesthetics, these picks will keep you rolling with excitement.

Thrashin' (1986)
Description: A cult classic that blends skateboarding with a rebellious youth narrative, featuring rival skate gangs and high-energy skate sequences. It captures the rebellious and competitive spirit of skate culture.
Fact: The film includes early appearances by skate legends like Tony Alva and Christian Hosoi. The soundtrack features punk and rock music, enhancing the film's energetic vibe.


Gleaming the Cube (1989)
Description: A thriller that combines skateboarding with a mystery plot, following a skater who investigates his brother's death. It showcases the skateboarding subculture's loyalty and determination.
Fact: The film stars Christian Slater and features skateboarding scenes performed by professional skaters. The title refers to a slang term for skateboarding, 'gleaming the cube.'


Grind (2003)
Description: A comedy-drama about a group of friends who embark on a cross-country road trip to follow their favorite skateboarder, capturing the carefree, adventurous spirit of skate culture. It emphasizes friendship and the pursuit of dreams.
Fact: The film features cameos from real-life professional skateboarders like Bam Margera and Tony Hawk. It was marketed as the first major skateboarding movie aimed at a mainstream audience.


Street Dreams (2009)
Description: A drama that follows a young skateboarder's journey from obscurity to fame, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of pursuing a passion in skateboarding. It shares themes of perseverance and the transformative power of skate culture.
Fact: The film stars professional skateboarder Paul Rodriguez, who also served as a co-writer. Many of the skate scenes were performed by real skateboarders, adding authenticity.


Betty (2020)
Description: A series that dives into the lives of young female skateboarders in New York City, blending coming-of-age drama with the gritty, vibrant aesthetics of street skating. It emphasizes the bonds formed through shared passion and the challenges of carving out space in a subculture.
Fact: The show is a spin-off of the film 'Skate Kitchen' and features several of the same actors reprising their roles. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of skateboarding and youth culture.


Waiting for Lightning (2012)
Description: A documentary that follows the life of skateboarder Danny Way, focusing on his daring stunts and the mental and physical challenges of professional skateboarding. It highlights the extreme dedication and risk-taking inherent in the sport.
Fact: The film documents Danny Way's record-breaking jump over the Great Wall of China on a skateboard. It includes interviews with skateboarding legends and explores the evolution of the sport.


Bones Brigade: An Autobiography (2012)
Description: This documentary chronicles the rise of the legendary Bones Brigade skate team, showcasing the creativity, rebellion, and tight-knit community that defined skateboarding's golden era. It mirrors the passion and dedication seen in skate crews.
Fact: The film features interviews with iconic skaters like Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen. It highlights how the team revolutionized skateboarding with innovative tricks and styles.


We Are Blood (2015)
Description: A visually stunning documentary that explores the global skateboarding community, emphasizing the bonds formed through shared passion and the sport's universal appeal. It captures the camaraderie and adventurous spirit of skate culture.
Fact: The film features breathtaking skateboarding footage from around the world, including locations like China, South Africa, and the United States. It was praised for its cinematic quality and emotional depth.


Skate Kitchen (2018)
Description: This film captures the raw energy and camaraderie of a tight-knit group of female skateboarders navigating the male-dominated skate scene. It shares themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the rebellious spirit of skate culture.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life all-female skate collective, Skate Kitchen, based in New York City. Many of the actors are actual skateboarders, adding authenticity to the skate scenes.
