This Ain't California 2012
"B-boy rebellion, communism, skateboarding, the Stasi…"
Step into the rebellious world of *This Ain't California (2012)*, a vibrant documentary directed by Marten Persiel that dives into the underground skateboarding culture of East Germany.
Director: Marten Persiel
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is This Ain't California (2012) about?
*This Ain't California* is a documentary that traces the rise of skateboarding culture in East Germany as both a form of escape and rebellion. It follows a group of skaters from their early years in the 1970s through the political upheavals of the 1980s, culminating in the transformative summer of 1989.
Who directed This Ain't California?
The film was directed by Marten Persiel, a filmmaker known for blending documentary storytelling with creative animation.
Who stars in This Ain't California?
The documentary features Kai Hillebrand, Nora Decker, and Lea Wolfram as its central skaters, alongside cultural icons like Titus Dittmann and historical figures such as Erich Honecker.
Is This Ain't California (2012) worth watching?
Absolutely! As a documentary that merges history, skate culture, and political intrigue, it offers a unique and engaging perspective on East Germany's underground scene. Its blend of personal stories and animated flair makes it both informative and entertaining.
How long is This Ain't California?
The film has a runtime of 93 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About This Ain't California (2012) — How skateboarding fueled rebellion behind the Iron Curtain
Step into the rebellious world of *This Ain't California (2012)*, a vibrant documentary directed by Marten Persiel that dives into the underground skateboarding culture of East Germany. This isn't just a film about boards and wheels—it's a raw, nostalgic portrait of youth defiance, political tension, and the unbreakable spirit of those who dared to carve their own path behind the Iron Curtain. Following three skateboarding pioneers from their childhood in the 1970s through the explosive rebellions of the 1980s, the documentary captures their journey up to the summer of 1989, when everything changed. With a mix of animation and historical footage, Persiel crafts a visually dynamic celebration of freedom, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of living on the edge.
The film brims with energy, blending humor, heart, and a touch of danger as it explores how skateboarding became a silent act of resistance against the stifling constraints of communism. Through the eyes of Kai Hillebrand and his companions, *This Ain't California (2012)* transforms skate culture into a metaphor for escape, identity, and the pursuit of happiness under oppression. It's a time capsule of defiance that resonates long after the final frame, proving that some legends aren't born—they're skateboarded into existence.