Documentary
United States of America
United Skates is a documentary film that explores the world of roller skating, particularly the African American roller skating subculture. The film follows the struggles of the community to keep roller rinks alive in the face of rising property values and urban development that threaten to shut them down.
The film shows how roller skating has been a part of African American culture for generations, providing a space for socializing, dancing, and artistic expression. The rinks served as a safe haven for Black youth, giving them a place to escape from poverty, violence, and discrimination.
As roller rinks started to close in urban areas due to gentrification, skating enthusiasts were forced to travel long distances or even out of state to continue their passion. The documentary highlights the efforts of the African American skating community to save their beloved rinks and preserve their cultural heritage.
United Skates also touches on the racial tensions that exist in the roller skating world, as some rinks have been accused of discriminating against people of color. The film sheds light on the struggles and resilience of the African American roller skating community, and how it has managed to persevere in the face of adversity.
