Response to an Interview

I choose the Cynthia Fuchs interview with Stacy Peralta for the subject to analyze and respond to. I started reading the piece with anticipation because I have seen the movie that they are discussing. I enjoyed the movie and, because of my children's interest in the sport, was very curious about the director's view as to why he made it.

The interview focuses on the "why and how" the film developed from an idea to an actual finished production and how this can inspire young filmmakers to follow their own stories. Stacy has a unique perspective for a director, as he is actually one of the minor characters in the story. Cynthia and Stacy discuss the steps he had to take, such as contacting friends, gathering film and editing, and factual information that needed to be presented. Stacy felt that 'cost and wages' weren't an issue for him; it was something that he just had to share with the world.

The fact that Stacy and Cynthia dealt with the financial issues, whether conditions, and the social climate that the films subjects faced, amongst other things, attest to the projects authenticity, and the crews dedication to underscoring the very real fact that they were rebels in an unaccepting world. Most of the people were nothing more than children with nothing to do. Yet Stacy made sure that we, the audience, could relate to them on a very basic level. He appealed to our remembered childhood of hot boring days, when there was "nothin' to do".

Many of us will never get on a skateboard, or will never again get on one. I believe that anyone can thoroughly enjoy this film. It's fun, informative, and well put together. It can be looked at and discussed on any number of levels. We can argue the legalities of their crimes. We can appreciate the beauty of the sport. We can argue AND appreciate almost every aspect of this film, with just about everyone.

I've watched this film myself at least three times. I'm fairly certain that I will see it again and still find enjoyment in the viewing. The interview actually gave a deeper meaning to the film that I had not grasped before and I know I will consider these things when I see it next.