The Motivation

The Motivation is a riveting documentary from 2013 directed by Adam Bhala Lough. Noted for being particularly engaging and thoughtfully crafted, the film offers a real-life look into the world of professional skateboarding. It is enriched by the appearances of some of the sports' biggest names, including Steve Berra, Chris Cole, and Felix Arguelles, among others.

At its core, The Motivation is about competition, passion, determination, and the inherent love for skateboarding. It is set around the Street League Championship, one of the most prestigious skateboarding competitions, renowned for bringing together the best skateboarders from all over the world to compete for ultimate glory and a life-changing cash prize. The much-anticipated final competition often serves as a defining moment which can make or break careers in this high-stakes world.

One of the most captivating aspects of The Motivation is its in-depth exploration of the competitors. By sharing their intimate stories, the film humanizes these athletes beyond their public images. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes footages, it provides a genuine depiction of the personal lives, struggles, successes, and resilient spirit of these world-class competitors. It paints an illuminating picture of their individual journeys, capturing the relentless dedication and resilience it takes to stand out in this fiercely competitive field.

Steve Berra, Chris Cole, and Felix Arguelles are just a few of the inspiring skateboarders profiled in the film. Berra is known for his undying innovation and has inspired countless skateboarders, and Cole, with his fearless style and technical skills, has become one of the most influential skateboarders in recent times. Arguelles, an equally notorious figure in the game, is recognized for his passion and consistency despite the obstacles he encounters.

The Motivation isn't just about winning or chasing fame; it reflects the genuine passion these athletes have for skateboarding. Proudly, it is able to communicate how the act of skateboarding transcends being just a sport or even a lifestyle, becoming a primal sameness that resonates deeply within these athletes.

The film also takes a distinct approach in addressing the contemporary culture of skateboarding and how it impacts society. Examining the importance of motivation, not only for athletes but also for young aspirants, it proves motivational in inspiring viewers to chase their passion relentlessly. Throughout the film, viewers are offered a surge of feeling like they're in the shoes of these stars, experiencing their highs, lows, and everything in between.

Furthermore, The Motivation showcases the changing face of skateboarding, emphasizing the shift from renegade origins to mainstream acceptance. It intertwines shots of spectacular skate performances with personal revelations, inducing appreciation for the physical prowess and sheer fearlessness embedded in the skaters.

With a stunning cinematographic vision, The Motivation adeptly contrasts the gritty, rough-and-tumble skating moments with quieter, introspective segments, painting a full-bodied portrait of this eclectic sport. It employs a respectful, honest lens to capture the genuine ups and downs these dedicated athletes face in their pursuit of excellence.

Director Adam Bhala Lough injects the film with his aesthetic flair and passion for storytelling, creating a highly immersive viewing experience. The Motivation's soundtrack is another commendable component, crammed with heart-pumping, foot-tapping music that perfectly complements the skating sequences and intensifies the emotional impact of personal narratives.

In the end, The Motivation emerges as a compelling, insightful, and deeply humanistic depiction of professional skateboarding. It manages to weave together a riveting sports film while remaining a stirring testament to the power of motivation, determination, and passion, making it an absorbing watch not only for skateboard enthusiasts but for anyone looking for a dose of inspiration. It's a film that excels in bringing to the foreground the pulsating heart and soul of skateboarding, capturing the essence of what it truly means to be a professional skateboarder.