Okay, grab your worn-out skate shoes and maybe a can of Jolt Cola – we're dropping into the sun-drenched, graffiti-tagged world of 1986's Thrashin'. Forget hoverboards for a second; this was the year that brought us skateboarding as high drama, blending teenage angst with some genuinely gnarly half-pipe action, all wrapped up in a gloriously 80s package. For many of us clutching that slightly worn VHS box back in the day, Thrashin' felt like a window into a cooler, faster world happening somewhere out in California.
Concrete Jungle Romeo and Juliet
At its heart, Thrashin' is basically West Side Story or Romeo and Juliet on four urethane wheels. We follow Cory Webster (played by a very young Josh Brolin, fresh off his debut in The Goonies the year before), an aspiring pro skater from out of town who comes to LA to compete and crash with friends. He's earnest, talented, and immediately falls for Chrissy (the late Pamela Gidley), a local girl with connections to the scene. The catch? Chrissy's brother is Tommy Hook (Robert Rusler, whom you might remember from Weird Science or A Nightmare on Elm Street 2), the tough-as-nails leader of "The Daggers," a rival skate crew who rule the local turf with an iron fist and some questionable fashion choices. Cue forbidden romance, crew rivalries, and the looming specter of the big downhill race: the L.A. Massacre.
The plot, let's be honest, isn't exactly Shakespeare. It hits familiar beats of rivalry, romance, and the underdog proving his worth. But director David Winters, who came from a background in choreography and directing music specials (and worked with icons like Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret), keeps the energy high. The script, co-written by Alan Sacks (who notably created the classic 70s sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter) and Paul Brown, embraces the earnest melodrama of the era. It’s predictable, sure, but there’s an undeniable charm in its commitment to the bit. It perfectly captures that slightly heightened reality common in 80s teen flicks.
Radical Rides and Real Shredders
Where Thrashin' truly shines, and the reason it cemented its place in many a VCR, is the skateboarding itself. This wasn't just actors awkwardly wobbling around; the production brought in a who's who of legendary 80s pro skaters as stunt doubles and for cameos. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll spot icons like Tony Hawk, Christian Hosoi, Steve Caballero, Mike McGill, and Lance Mountain, among others, pulling off tricks that felt absolutely mind-blowing on our fuzzy CRT screens. They lend an authenticity to the action sequences that elevates the film beyond its sometimes-clunky narrative.
One fascinating piece of trivia: Johnny Depp was apparently strongly considered for the lead role of Cory Webster but lost out partly because his skateboarding skills weren't quite up to snuff! It's hard to imagine anyone but Brolin now, even though he has famously expressed less-than-fond memories of the film in later years. Regardless of his later feelings, Brolin brings a certain brooding intensity to Cory, making him a believable (if slightly naive) protagonist navigating this aggressive subculture. Rusler, meanwhile, perfectly embodies the intimidating cool of the rival leader, Hook.
The film really leaned into showcasing different skate styles – vert ramps, pool skating, freestyle, and the infamous downhill race sequence. The "jousting" scene in the parking garage, where skaters charge at each other with makeshift lances (padded poles, really), is pure 80s cinematic invention – absurd, dangerous-looking, and utterly memorable. Filming these sequences often involved innovative (and likely risky!) camera setups to capture the speed and dynamism of the sport. Remember, this was long before the days of ubiquitous GoPros!
Sounds and Sights of '86
You can't talk about Thrashin' without mentioning its killer soundtrack. Packed with punk, new wave, and rock anthems, it perfectly complements the rebellious energy on screen. Bands like Fear, Circle Jerks, and Devo provide the sonic backdrop, and there’s even a brief, electrifying performance cameo by the Red Hot Chili Peppers in their very early days (look for Anthony Kiedis and Flea rocking out at a club). The music wasn't just background noise; it was woven into the fabric of the film, amplifying the attitude and adrenaline.
Visually, the movie is a time capsule of mid-80s Los Angeles skate culture. Shot on location in places like Venice Beach and Hollywood, it captures the gritty, sun-baked aesthetic of the era – the graffiti art, the neon signs, the ripped jeans and brightly coloured skate gear. It feels authentic to its time, a snapshot of a subculture just before it exploded into the mainstream.
VHS Cult Classic Status
Thrashin' wasn't a massive box office smash upon release, reportedly making back its modest budget (estimated around $2-3 million) but not setting the world on fire financially. Its true life began, as many cult classics do, on home video. Finding this tape on the shelves of the local rental store felt like discovering a hidden gem. It had action, romance, cool music, and a peek into a world that seemed impossibly exciting. It resonated with kids who were just getting into skating, or those who simply loved the vibrant energy of 80s youth culture. Its current IMDb score might hover around a 6.2/10, but the much higher audience score on Rotten Tomatoes (around 72%) speaks volumes about its enduring appeal among fans who grew up with it.
It never spawned sequels or a franchise, remaining a standalone artifact of its time. But its influence can be felt in later skate films and its earnest portrayal of the culture earned it a dedicated following. It's a film that perfectly embodies the "VHS Heaven" spirit – maybe not critically acclaimed, maybe a little rough around the edges, but radiating a warmth and energy that sparks pure nostalgic joy.
Rating: 7/10
This score reflects Thrashin's undeniable charm and historical significance within skate culture, balanced against its admittedly cheesy plot and sometimes awkward dialogue. The phenomenal skateboarding performed by legends of the sport, the killer soundtrack, and Josh Brolin's early starring role make it essential viewing. It’s not perfect cinema, but it perfectly captured a moment, delivering high-energy thrills and earnest teenage drama with an infectious 80s spirit.
Thrashin' is pure, unadulterated 80s skateboard escapism – a vibrant, noisy, and ultimately endearing ride back to the concrete waves of yesteryear. Fire it up and feel the asphalt rumble.