Hardbody’s latest video “OD” came out this week and since I’m a skateboarding media that posts impressively little actual skateboarding, I thought I’d talk about it.
It’s wonderful to see VX1000 footage of New York City again. While the masses have moved to HD, filmmaker Emilio Cuilan seems to be sticking with VX1000. In a long tradition of grainy, grungy NYC videos, Hardbody looks to be carrying the torch.
Much like Lurk NYC, Bronze, and even Emilio’s own early work Dany, this video represents one thing: community. Despite being set in one of America’s most transient cities, the core members of OD are anything but green newcomers.
And unlike other crews or scenes that rely heavily on the participants’ skills, OD showcases unique personalities and some of the guys who hang out here who don’t make a living producing bangers. It may not always be topical, high-level madness, but to quote the title, these videos can feel like OD. I found that refreshing.
That’s not to say there weren’t plenty of “holy shit” moments in this video. In fact, it only took a minute and fifteen for that to happen. I’m looking at you, Antonio. I’m also looking at Javaris Williams, Brandon Scott James, and OG Josh Velez, three skaters who really caught my eye in this video. How the hell did you do all that in chunky Jordans, Josh?
It was great to see some footage from Genesis Evans and Chachi Maserati, two skaters whose style I really like but who are pretty hard to capture on camera. This goes back to the community and how the right project/filmer can make magical things happen.
On that note, we also have to talk about Kevin Tierney’s opening part. There aren’t many others as deeply rooted in NYC skateboarding as this guy, and watching 2009’s Zoo York’s State of Mind, it’s hard to believe he’s still at it. Not to mention a broken knee and leg in his past.
The last skater I don’t want to leave out is Antonio Durao. Not only did he do two NBDs on Pyramid Ledges, but he also used his patented Frontside Flip Late Foot on an even bigger set and pulled off a stunning Big Heel on Brooklyn Banks that took out IG.
Look, I know it’s early days and SOTY is just a ploy by the shoe sponsor who wants to shell out the most money, but Antonio has my vote. And shameless advertising, but check out our interview with Antonio. There are some great stories in there that might reveal how he discovered his unique style.
Thank you, Emilio, for not only filming and releasing an amazing video, but for giving NYC a new iconic brand to get behind. Below are some of my favorite moments, time-coded for your viewing pleasure.
HIGHLIGHTS
1:15 First “holy shit” moment.
3:41 KT drops a massive Switch Boneless, one of the hardest tricks to pull off as a Switch or Reggy.
5:41 Ross B Back to back with Antonio. Must be a good feeling.
13:00 The legendary cameo appearance of P-Tricky.
14:09 For me, that’s breaking the fourth wall in skate videos. Singing along to the music in the video.
15:55 I love how NYC this clip is. Scaffolding everywhere, dark, beautifully filmed. Well done, Coles.
23:42 Uhhhhh… what is Clive Dixon doing here? Hey, I’m not mad at him.
24:26 Has Gonz narrated a book yet? If not, he should.
28:00 I love the Rocky moment. I wish we could have seen some Meat Locker boxing too.
29:42 During a relaxed Turtle Marathon part, this clip caught my attention. Why is the board so small? Are those wheels from the 80s?
33:04 Let’s talk about Keith Denley. Not only does the man have perfect posture on a skateboard, but this clip is 10/10.
35:57 If Beatrice knows one thing, it’s how to ensure consistency.
37:32 I’m not sure how, but they captured Max Palmer’s style in one song.
38:45 One of the most stylish grabs I’ve seen in a long time. Thanks, Karim.
42:05 Second “holy shit” moment.
42:52 Hey Hjalte, is there a solo part or what?
