Dogtown
Dogtown

Dogtown

1997Movie99 minEnglish

Philip Van Horn, who left his small town a long time ago to become a Hollywood actor and hasn't had any success at that, returns to the town for a visit. There he is uniformally met like some kind of celebrity and movie star. He uses it to impress his (and everybody's) school love Dorothy, her life now a grey boring experience.

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IMDb6.6/10
Director: George HickenlooperGenres: Documentary, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the dark underbelly of Los Angeles, specifically the Venice Beach area known as Dogtown. It explores the complex and often violent history of the area, focusing on the rise of skateboarding culture and the individuals who shaped it amidst a backdrop of crime and social unrest. The film examines the unique environment that produced legendary skaters and the challenges they faced.

Critical Reception

Dogtown received mixed reviews, with critics often praising its raw energy and unflinching look at a specific subculture and time. However, some found its narrative disjointed and its subject matter too bleak. Audience reception was similarly divided, appreciating its authenticity but sometimes put off by its grim portrayal.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic portrayal of the Dogtown skate scene and its gritty atmosphere.
  • Criticized for a sometimes unfocused narrative and a somber tone.
  • Seen as a fascinating, albeit dark, look at a unique American subculture.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews and ratings for this specific documentary is not readily available.

Fun Fact

While the film features interviews with figures associated with the Dogtown era, its documentary nature means the 'cast' consists of real individuals recounting their experiences, including some controversial figures.

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