EVERYDAY there are new surf videos here: www.diversiontv.com/surf.
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Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Surf Wednesday: Unbelievable Perfect River Waves.
If you surf and haven't seen this, check it out now. This river in Indonesia spits out the most perfect waves one right after another!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
BMX Tuesday: Operativ Clothing
There's a new brand on the BMX scene called Operativ. They dropped an awesome edit, and we had the chance to speak with Josh Suhre to see what Operativ is all about!
DTV: Why did you start Operativ and what is it?
JOSH: What is a key principle that drives us as riders, BMX culture, media, etc? In it's rawest form I think it is the concept of "awareness." It's about looking at your environment from a different perspective, and reinventing it; creating something out of what is "nothing" to many others (who do not see from the same perspective). Everything surrounding the BMX culture that we have created as a collective is rooted in this concept, and that is an integral part of what drives Operativ.
Another person may walk by thousands of handrails in their life and never have the awareness to realize it's potential from our culture's point of view. The same goes for that perfectly level flatland spot, an opening in the woods to sculpt a perfect set of trails, a pool with transition coping that could be drained and turned into an epic spot. A photographer, for example, frames up a great riding shot before someone is even riding it; they have the awareness to see something, and use their skills to create something significant and memorable. It's pretty amazing how our lifestyle really cultivates a "third eye," and encourages us to view and utilize our environment in a extraordinary way. I think it is a much more motivating force for us as riders, artists, designers, etc. than the BS of sponsorship, who did what at what spot, money, etc. Operativ is inspired by these fundamental aspects that define BMX culture, and my goal is to represent our lifestyle in an authentic way; striving to progress apparel with conceptual design, top quality attention to detail, and exemplify the energy, creativity, and community that make BMX magnetic.
JOSH: The video is our first release under Operativ, and features Operativ rider Chad Ring. Chad has been killing it forever and we're amped to drop an edit that he really put in work for and reflects the energy of his riding. Chris Mahaffey is responsible for the filming and editing, and we both worked closely to produce the final edit. I'm very much honored to have Chris on board for future projects with us.
DTV: Where can people find Operativ products?
JOSH: Head over to our online store for all of the latest gear. We ship all over the world on a regular basis: http://shop.operativbrand.com
DTV:What kind of impact do you hope to have in the BMX community?
JOSH: I've always just been so amped to be involved in BMX as a rider and designer, and with Operativ it's really rewarding to sculpt something fresh, real, and have a great initial response inside and outside of BMX. We have such a solid crew on board, all of the riders: Bobby Simmons, David Grant, Chad Ring...Cody York and Chris Mahaffey behind the lens, and great contributors (Jeff Z, Andrew Brady, Devin Feil). My favorite part is the collaboration and motivation of the group. I hope for Operativ to inspire others from all aspects, to push themselves, to appreciate attention to detail, conceptual design, and the shared perspective that tie us together as a community. I think it's something BMX can use a lot more of, and I hope we are an prominent part of representing and taking it to the next level.
DTV: Are there any upcoming plans or things we should know about concerning Operativ?
JOSH: We have a lot of new gear in the works, a few items which will start to branch Operativ out more into the "apparel" side of things. I'm really excited about how product development is coming along and can't wait to share more details. Cody York and Chris Mahaffey are onboard to focus on filming and shooting future projects, which means the rest of us will have more time to focus on design, stacking clips, and getting the crew together for some good times! Thanks to everyone for the unbelievable support and being part of building Operativ.
DTV: Why did you start Operativ and what is it?
JOSH: What is a key principle that drives us as riders, BMX culture, media, etc? In it's rawest form I think it is the concept of "awareness." It's about looking at your environment from a different perspective, and reinventing it; creating something out of what is "nothing" to many others (who do not see from the same perspective). Everything surrounding the BMX culture that we have created as a collective is rooted in this concept, and that is an integral part of what drives Operativ.
Another person may walk by thousands of handrails in their life and never have the awareness to realize it's potential from our culture's point of view. The same goes for that perfectly level flatland spot, an opening in the woods to sculpt a perfect set of trails, a pool with transition coping that could be drained and turned into an epic spot. A photographer, for example, frames up a great riding shot before someone is even riding it; they have the awareness to see something, and use their skills to create something significant and memorable. It's pretty amazing how our lifestyle really cultivates a "third eye," and encourages us to view and utilize our environment in a extraordinary way. I think it is a much more motivating force for us as riders, artists, designers, etc. than the BS of sponsorship, who did what at what spot, money, etc. Operativ is inspired by these fundamental aspects that define BMX culture, and my goal is to represent our lifestyle in an authentic way; striving to progress apparel with conceptual design, top quality attention to detail, and exemplify the energy, creativity, and community that make BMX magnetic.
DTV: How did you come up with the concept for this video?
JOSH: The video is our first release under Operativ, and features Operativ rider Chad Ring. Chad has been killing it forever and we're amped to drop an edit that he really put in work for and reflects the energy of his riding. Chris Mahaffey is responsible for the filming and editing, and we both worked closely to produce the final edit. I'm very much honored to have Chris on board for future projects with us.
DTV: Where can people find Operativ products?
JOSH: Head over to our online store for all of the latest gear. We ship all over the world on a regular basis: http://shop.operativbrand.com
JOSH: I've always just been so amped to be involved in BMX as a rider and designer, and with Operativ it's really rewarding to sculpt something fresh, real, and have a great initial response inside and outside of BMX. We have such a solid crew on board, all of the riders: Bobby Simmons, David Grant, Chad Ring...Cody York and Chris Mahaffey behind the lens, and great contributors (Jeff Z, Andrew Brady, Devin Feil). My favorite part is the collaboration and motivation of the group. I hope for Operativ to inspire others from all aspects, to push themselves, to appreciate attention to detail, conceptual design, and the shared perspective that tie us together as a community. I think it's something BMX can use a lot more of, and I hope we are an prominent part of representing and taking it to the next level.
DTV: Are there any upcoming plans or things we should know about concerning Operativ?
JOSH: We have a lot of new gear in the works, a few items which will start to branch Operativ out more into the "apparel" side of things. I'm really excited about how product development is coming along and can't wait to share more details. Cody York and Chris Mahaffey are onboard to focus on filming and shooting future projects, which means the rest of us will have more time to focus on design, stacking clips, and getting the crew together for some good times! Thanks to everyone for the unbelievable support and being part of building Operativ.
Watch all the new BMX videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/bmx.
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Monday, November 28, 2011
Movie Monday: "21 Days Later"
This weeks movie monday is "21 Days Later." Britain and Ireland’s finest surfers go on a 3 week boat trip around the Mentawai Islands off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, home to some of the most perfect waves in the world! Besides the great surfing, there's an awesome storyline as well!
Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
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Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
Join us on facebook.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Snow Friday: PBRJ Tour
Volcom is on tour with their PBRJ tour. Get your stunts ready!
EVERYDAY, new snow videos here: www.diversiontv.com/snow.
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Thursday, November 24, 2011
Skate Thursday: "The Amazon"
Skateboarder Magazine released a series called "The Amazon." Josh Stewart captures a 3 week trip as Jack Sabback, Jake Johnson, Clint Peterson, Raymond Molinar, Adelmo Juninho and Kenny Anderson sail down the Amazon river for skate sessions and adventures in the rain forest. This is a 6 part series, you can check out the rest of the episodes here.
The Amazon: Documentary Series Premiere Episode from Skateboarder Magazine on Vimeo.
The Amazon: Documentary Series Premiere Episode from Skateboarder Magazine on Vimeo.
Watch new skate videos daily here: www.diversiontv.com/skate.
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Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Surf Wednesday: "Leave a Message"
Girls rip it up on waves and the crew at Nike 6.0 have put together a great performance surf film. These girls are re-writing the script for surfing and have left their message.
EVERYDAY there are new surf videos here: www.diversiontv.com/surf.
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Tuesday, November 22, 2011
BMX Tuesday: United Bikes "Downtime" DVD trailer!
United Bikes has a new DVD coming out soon. It's going to be free. Check the trailer!
United: Downtime Dvd Trailer. from Channel 4Down on Vimeo.
Watch all the new BMX videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/bmx.
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Monday, November 21, 2011
Movie Monday: "Same Thing Daily"
Dane Beardsley, a professional BMX flatlander and video maker, gathers a select group of riders that he feels is doing something special with their riding. "Same Thing Daily" is one 4 videos in his series. Check it out....
Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
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Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
Join us on facebook.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Snow Friday: The Gap Session!
Snowboard season is upon us! We're going to kick things off with a classic film called "The Gap Session." I hope everyone goes out there and learns some new tricks! This film is dedicated to innovation as a handful the world's best snowboarders spend a week at a set up built specifically to push boundaries!
EVERYDAY, new snow videos here: www.diversiontv.com/snow.
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Thursday, November 17, 2011
Skate Thursday: Interview with Amrit Jain of Skate Sauce
I
met Amrit Jain when he premiered his skate video in Hollywood called "Like
Brothers." I was pretty stoked when I saw the video because it featured
skaters I ran into all the time at Brooklyn Projects skate shop, but never actually
saw skate! The production had a good vibe too. Since then, Amrit went on
to start his brand, Skate Sauce. I've been seeing his stickers around
the neighborhood, so I decided to see what's been up with Amrit lately.
DTV: How did you get into filming skating?
AMRIT: I got into filming skating around 2004. My friend Ryan from Seattle lived in L.A. back then and he was a really good skater. I wanted to film him cuz no one else was. One thing led to another and next thing I knew I was working on my first full length skate video called 'Like Brothers'.
AMRIT: For one, the camera's have gone from VX1's and 2's to semi-HD, and then to full HD. If your working with HD it's a much longer process to import the footage, convert it, store it, etc.
The way you drop a video is different as well. When I made 'Like Brothers', Youtube was barely starting. I dont think I put my video on Youtube until late 2007. Now you can release a video on Youtube and if you have the right connects/channels to promote it then the whole world can see it. Or at least anyone with internet and youtube. When you have no money and your passion is creating cool videos to inspire people, then Youtube is a great platform. But you don't always reach everyone. I meet a lot of skaters in the streets around the world who rarely go on the internet. They still use a DVD player and only know of videos through word of mouth/Skate Shops.
I def think its important to hit both Youtube & make DVD's. For our 2nd Full length video we are going to produce only 2,000 DVD's. 500 will be for sale, 500 will go to Skate Sauce Family & Friends around the world, and I am going to send 10 DVDs to a skate shop that supports Skate Sauce in as many cities as I can with the other 1,000. After a month or 2 of the video being out in the streets around the world, then we will start to drop it on our website part by part until the entire video is online. Hopefully that will create the buzz we need in the streets, as well as on the web, without having to spend too much on marketing the video.
AMRIT: Skate Sauce is a brand I started at the end of 2008. As an independent filmaker it is hard to get your videos out there with just your name. I knew I needed a company/brand name that I could attach with my videos to help people remember our crew. Skate Sauce was the perfect name. I always wanted to have a company where I could sponsor all my friends without having conflicts (other clothing companies, skateboard companies). We use Sauce when food is dry, I figured it would work with a dry ledge/rail. It needs that Sauce, skateboard wax. There arent any wax companies I know of, so I knew I could sponsor all my friends with no problems.
We have a huge Family of friends around the world. Some are Legendary pro skateboarders, some are Local Legends. I want to be able to grow Skate Sauce into something that can take care of all of us. If we could get it so that we can afford to tour around the world and make videos and live, that would be awesome. That is our goal...anything after that is bonus.
AMRIT: Yea, for the record, its SK8MAFIA. haha.
AMRIT: No worries, even the big skate mags get it wrong. But yeah SK8MAFIA and I go way back. I met the owners Dan Connelly, Peter Smolik, and Preebz around 2004. Back then SK8MAFIA had just started. They made a couple boards and tee's, strictly for the homies. I remember going down to San Diego to visit the crew. Dan showed me footage of Kellen James, Larelly Gray, Tyler Surrey, & Wes Kremer when no one knew who they were. I think Tyler and Wes were like 15. I was tripping on how good they were. They all had mad style and crazy tricks! It's been dope to see them grow into the Brand & Family they are today. SK8MAFIA4LIFE!
AMRIT: Top 3 Productions I have made? I would have to say #1 is the new full length Skate Sauce video called "Hard Times but Good Times" which we are about to premiere in LA next month. We have been working on it for 4-5 years now...since 'Like Brothers'. It features one of my favorite skaters I grew up watching - Tom Penny. It also features a new Pro who I got to film as he grew into the amazing skater he is now - Vincent Alvarez. Its not the craziest new tricks or death defying tricks...just a dope skate video with good music, solid skating, street, and will def make you jump out your seat and want to go skate!
#2 is a video I made while Testing out the Canon 7D. Its 3 parts and I cut it to a dope Jay Electronica track. You can see that video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IieFVKiJ95M
The #3 Production would have to be the first and only music video I have made. Hip Hop x Skateboarding: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOEGCIO5nm4 we shot it last minute while I was in NYC, but I really like how it came out.
DTV: How did you get into filming skating?
AMRIT: I got into filming skating around 2004. My friend Ryan from Seattle lived in L.A. back then and he was a really good skater. I wanted to film him cuz no one else was. One thing led to another and next thing I knew I was working on my first full length skate video called 'Like Brothers'.
DTV: How has filmmaking changed since you made "Like Brothers"?
AMRIT: For one, the camera's have gone from VX1's and 2's to semi-HD, and then to full HD. If your working with HD it's a much longer process to import the footage, convert it, store it, etc.
The way you drop a video is different as well. When I made 'Like Brothers', Youtube was barely starting. I dont think I put my video on Youtube until late 2007. Now you can release a video on Youtube and if you have the right connects/channels to promote it then the whole world can see it. Or at least anyone with internet and youtube. When you have no money and your passion is creating cool videos to inspire people, then Youtube is a great platform. But you don't always reach everyone. I meet a lot of skaters in the streets around the world who rarely go on the internet. They still use a DVD player and only know of videos through word of mouth/Skate Shops.
I def think its important to hit both Youtube & make DVD's. For our 2nd Full length video we are going to produce only 2,000 DVD's. 500 will be for sale, 500 will go to Skate Sauce Family & Friends around the world, and I am going to send 10 DVDs to a skate shop that supports Skate Sauce in as many cities as I can with the other 1,000. After a month or 2 of the video being out in the streets around the world, then we will start to drop it on our website part by part until the entire video is online. Hopefully that will create the buzz we need in the streets, as well as on the web, without having to spend too much on marketing the video.
DTV: What is Skate Sauce and what is it about?
AMRIT: Skate Sauce is a brand I started at the end of 2008. As an independent filmaker it is hard to get your videos out there with just your name. I knew I needed a company/brand name that I could attach with my videos to help people remember our crew. Skate Sauce was the perfect name. I always wanted to have a company where I could sponsor all my friends without having conflicts (other clothing companies, skateboard companies). We use Sauce when food is dry, I figured it would work with a dry ledge/rail. It needs that Sauce, skateboard wax. There arent any wax companies I know of, so I knew I could sponsor all my friends with no problems.
We have a huge Family of friends around the world. Some are Legendary pro skateboarders, some are Local Legends. I want to be able to grow Skate Sauce into something that can take care of all of us. If we could get it so that we can afford to tour around the world and make videos and live, that would be awesome. That is our goal...anything after that is bonus.
DTV: It seems like you roll deep with the Sk8 Mafia crew. Talk about that affiliation?
AMRIT: Yea, for the record, its SK8MAFIA. haha.
DTV: Oh my bad, SK8MAFIA.
AMRIT: No worries, even the big skate mags get it wrong. But yeah SK8MAFIA and I go way back. I met the owners Dan Connelly, Peter Smolik, and Preebz around 2004. Back then SK8MAFIA had just started. They made a couple boards and tee's, strictly for the homies. I remember going down to San Diego to visit the crew. Dan showed me footage of Kellen James, Larelly Gray, Tyler Surrey, & Wes Kremer when no one knew who they were. I think Tyler and Wes were like 15. I was tripping on how good they were. They all had mad style and crazy tricks! It's been dope to see them grow into the Brand & Family they are today. SK8MAFIA4LIFE!
DTV: Of the films that you have made what is your favorite top 3 productions?
AMRIT: Top 3 Productions I have made? I would have to say #1 is the new full length Skate Sauce video called "Hard Times but Good Times" which we are about to premiere in LA next month. We have been working on it for 4-5 years now...since 'Like Brothers'. It features one of my favorite skaters I grew up watching - Tom Penny. It also features a new Pro who I got to film as he grew into the amazing skater he is now - Vincent Alvarez. Its not the craziest new tricks or death defying tricks...just a dope skate video with good music, solid skating, street, and will def make you jump out your seat and want to go skate!
Check out the premiere of "Hard Times, but Good Times" in Hollywood.
#2 is a video I made while Testing out the Canon 7D. Its 3 parts and I cut it to a dope Jay Electronica track. You can see that video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IieFVKiJ95M
The #3 Production would have to be the first and only music video I have made. Hip Hop x Skateboarding: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOEGCIO5nm4 we shot it last minute while I was in NYC, but I really like how it came out.
Watch new skate videos daily here: www.diversiontv.com/skate.
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Surf Wednesday: "Coasting"
Where are you right now? Work? Home? Stuck in an airport? In some remote area of the world having the time of your life and just checking in at an internet cafe? Where ever you are, take a few moments and "Coast" south of the border with Josh Kerr and Asher Pacey for some right handers!
COASTING from Matt Kleiner on Vimeo.
COASTING from Matt Kleiner on Vimeo.
EVERYDAY there are new surf videos here: www.diversiontv.com/surf.
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Tuesday, November 15, 2011
BMX Tuesday: A Connection to the world.
One thing I have always noted is that action sports is more than just tricks on your bike, skateboard, snowboard, surfboard or motorcycle. Through action sports we can learn about the world around us. This is a Flatland BMX film that introduced a lot of people to the country and culture of Japan. Through action sports we discover each other.
Watch all the new BMX videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/bmx.
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Monday, November 14, 2011
Movie Monday: "Crusty Demons of Dirt"
This is the film that set it off for freestyle moto cross and set the stage for the whole Crusty Demons phenomena. Jon Freeman and Dana Nicholson wanted to showcase the lifestyles of these riders off the course and show the 145 ft jumps over sand dunes, houses, buses, everything! Check it out...
Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
Join us on facebook.
Be sure to check out the library of full length films here.
Join us on facebook.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Snow Friday: Girls, Girls, Girls!
It's snow friday. We got girls, girls, girls.....how can you go wrong??
Girls have been killing it in action sports for a long time and Rebel TV takes us to the snow to see how far the ladies have taken the game and what's in store for the future.
Here's episode one of the new series from Rebel TV.
Girls have been killing it in action sports for a long time and Rebel TV takes us to the snow to see how far the ladies have taken the game and what's in store for the future.
Here's episode one of the new series from Rebel TV.
EVERYDAY, new snow videos here: www.diversiontv.com/snow.
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Thursday, November 10, 2011
Skate Thursday: Josh Kalis and "Brick Layers"
Josh Kalis has a web series called "Brick Layers." If you want to be schooled in skateboard history, check it out. Professor Kalis kicks the knowledge and brings us up to date on a who's who in skateboarding.
If you want to see more episodes, check them out in the webchannels page.
Category:Skate - Channel: HellaClips
If you want to see more episodes, check them out in the webchannels page.
Category:Skate - Channel: HellaClips
Watch new skate videos daily here: www.diversiontv.com/skate.
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Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Surf Wednesday: Name that wave...
Over the years watching video after video, looking at picture after picture, it seems like you can just look at a wave and know where it is just by it's shape. Teauhpoo in Tahiti is probably the one of the most recognizable big waves in the world....check this XXL Big Wave Awards video. How many waves can you recognize?
EVERYDAY there are new surf videos here: www.diversiontv.com/surf.
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Tuesday, November 8, 2011
BMX Tuesday: Will Stroud Interview
Will Stroud has established himself as a main staple in BMX film making. If you're at all into BMX, most likely you've seen some of his work. If not, check out this latest edit made for Monster Energy's Alex Coleburn. Check out big Will in the interview below....
DTV: How did you get into film making and how long have you been doing it?
WILL: I first picked up a camera around 1997. I grew up riding trails here in North Carolina with guys like Chris Doyle, Ryan Barrett and Cory Muth and it seemed like I always got hurt more than those guys back then, so I just picked up a camera when I couldn't ride and would film my friends at the trails. So I've been filming videos for nearly 15 years now which is pretty crazy to think..
WILL: Oh yeah, I pretty much grew up watching videos like Ride On, Hoffman Headfirst and all the old Props videos. I really looked up to the old school video guys like Eddie Roman, Chris Rye and Stew Johnson. It was really cool meeting those guys and getting to know them too. Those guys and a few others are responsible for some of the best classic BMX videos of all time.
WILL: Well, lately I've been really proud of all the Cinema web edits we've put out this year. My top 3 favorite Cinema edits are:
1) Cinema in PHX - http://vimeo.com/19326361
2) Cinema Sessions with Nathan & Dakota - http://vimeo.com/21048687
3) Cinema x Etnies Colorado Summer Tour - http://vimeo.com/27788506
WILL: In the past I have made all sorts of random non-BMX related project like wedding videos, documentaries, training videos and short films. But my passion is making BMX videos and at the moment I have enough work in the BMX video business to get by, which is a dream come true.
DTV: What cameras do you use?
WILL: Nowadays I mostly use my Panasonic HVX-200 with the Century Xtreme Fisheye and a Canon 7d with various prime and zoom lenses. I still have two old 16mm film cameras that I bought in college that I haven't used in a few years along with my Sony VX-1000 that I bought in 1999.
WILL: Nine To Five Films is my video business name so I don't have to put my name on my projects. I'm a one man video production company and that's the way I like it. Sometimes I bring in people to help with shoots but I handle most all of the directing, producing, filming and editing myself. I am definitely more of a filmmaker than a businessman so my goal is to keep the company small and work closely with a few companies like the Greenhouse BMX brands (Verde, Cinema & Duo), Monster Energy, Etnies, Nike 6.0 and a small list of other brands. I'm also the TM for all the Greenhouse BMX brands so I split my time between the video stuff and TM work. Truly a dream job and an exciting lifestyle.
WILL: Yeah, for sure. We just did a collab trip for Cinema with the Fiend team in Tulsa and that edit will be dropping in early December. That was a really fun and productive trip and the video should be pretty sweet. We also have a few new Verde edits in the works that I'm excited about. And on top of all that I'll be producing 15 web edits for Monster Energy between now and next summer so I got a lot of trips coming up.
DTV: How did you get into film making and how long have you been doing it?
WILL: I first picked up a camera around 1997. I grew up riding trails here in North Carolina with guys like Chris Doyle, Ryan Barrett and Cory Muth and it seemed like I always got hurt more than those guys back then, so I just picked up a camera when I couldn't ride and would film my friends at the trails. So I've been filming videos for nearly 15 years now which is pretty crazy to think..
DTV: Were there other filmmakers that you looked up to or that inspire you?
WILL: Oh yeah, I pretty much grew up watching videos like Ride On, Hoffman Headfirst and all the old Props videos. I really looked up to the old school video guys like Eddie Roman, Chris Rye and Stew Johnson. It was really cool meeting those guys and getting to know them too. Those guys and a few others are responsible for some of the best classic BMX videos of all time.
DTV: Out of all your films and web edits what are your top three favorite
productions?
WILL: Well, lately I've been really proud of all the Cinema web edits we've put out this year. My top 3 favorite Cinema edits are:
1) Cinema in PHX - http://vimeo.com/19326361
2) Cinema Sessions with Nathan & Dakota - http://vimeo.com/21048687
3) Cinema x Etnies Colorado Summer Tour - http://vimeo.com/27788506
DTV: Do you make any films that are non-BMX related?
WILL: In the past I have made all sorts of random non-BMX related project like wedding videos, documentaries, training videos and short films. But my passion is making BMX videos and at the moment I have enough work in the BMX video business to get by, which is a dream come true.
DTV: What cameras do you use?
WILL: Nowadays I mostly use my Panasonic HVX-200 with the Century Xtreme Fisheye and a Canon 7d with various prime and zoom lenses. I still have two old 16mm film cameras that I bought in college that I haven't used in a few years along with my Sony VX-1000 that I bought in 1999.
DTV: Sick, I still have my VX-1000 for back up too! What is 9to5 films?
WILL: Nine To Five Films is my video business name so I don't have to put my name on my projects. I'm a one man video production company and that's the way I like it. Sometimes I bring in people to help with shoots but I handle most all of the directing, producing, filming and editing myself. I am definitely more of a filmmaker than a businessman so my goal is to keep the company small and work closely with a few companies like the Greenhouse BMX brands (Verde, Cinema & Duo), Monster Energy, Etnies, Nike 6.0 and a small list of other brands. I'm also the TM for all the Greenhouse BMX brands so I split my time between the video stuff and TM work. Truly a dream job and an exciting lifestyle.
DTV: Are there any upcoming projects we should know about?
WILL: Yeah, for sure. We just did a collab trip for Cinema with the Fiend team in Tulsa and that edit will be dropping in early December. That was a really fun and productive trip and the video should be pretty sweet. We also have a few new Verde edits in the works that I'm excited about. And on top of all that I'll be producing 15 web edits for Monster Energy between now and next summer so I got a lot of trips coming up.
Watch new BMX videos daily here: www.diversiontv.com/bmx.
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Monday, November 7, 2011
Movie Monday: "In Search of Roots and Culture"
Friday, November 4, 2011
Snow Friday: Vans French Snow Team.
Looks like the Vans crew from France is going all out this winter. Check their clips.
Watch new snow videos daily here: www.diversiontv.com/snow.
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Thursday, November 3, 2011
Skate Thursday: Skate and Create.
Skate and Create results in some of the most artistic and innovative skate films in history! Here's a throwback from Circa called "Broken Dreams." Enjoy!
Watch all the new skate videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/skate.
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Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Surf Wednesday: Riley Blakeway
Riley Blakeway is a relatively new name in film making from the surf community. He has quickly become a heavy hitter on scene with films produced for Analaog and Gravis. His film, "NOW," produced for Analog is considered the pinnacle of his film making career thus far. Check his interview below.
NOW. from Analog Clothing on Vimeo.
DTV: How did you get started in Filmmaking?
RILEY: I've had a camera in my hands for as long as I can remember. I got given my first video camera when I was 11 and I have been shooting like crazy ever since. At first it was just a huge old camcorder that took VHS tapes. I could never get the footage off the tapes to edit but I would shoot stupid shit all day with my friends and we'd all crowd around a TV and watch later that night. Things progressed from there and I got serious after in High school. I eventually dropped out of Uni to make my first film and wrote email after email until I finally got a couple of starts in the surf industry. That then led to some amazing opportunities. Film has always been a constant in my life.
DTV: How long have you been a surfer?
RILEY: I started surfing a little later, when I was about 13. I spent allot of time out of school living abroad when I was 13/14 so I picked it pretty quickly.
DTV: Of the films you have made, what are your top three favorite films and why?
RILEY: My fav films to date would have to be 'NOW', 'Gravis - Sammy Winter at home' and 'Thom - A Portrait of Modern Youth'. NOW I consider the best surf film I have made - It was a huge leap for me personally and career-wise. It also depicts some of the best memories and moments of my life. Thats a huge part of it for me. The Gravis clip is short but definitely a fav. For me I feel like it is my best cinematography to date. 'Thom's film premiered at the NY surf film festival this year. I funded the project entirely myself and it was more pre/post production then anything I've made previously. It's like nothing else I've made and definitely represents a strong evolution in my work.
DTV: What kind of cameras do you use while shooting?
RILEY: At the moment I have the Sony PMW-EX1, The 7D, a 16mm Bolex and a Nizo super 8mm.
DTV: Do you have any film projects you're working on currently or that we should look for soon?
RILEY: Thom's film will be released in the next few weeks and I have just started working on another film for Analog over the past few months. This one is due to arrive early next year!
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NOW. from Analog Clothing on Vimeo.
DTV: How did you get started in Filmmaking?
RILEY: I've had a camera in my hands for as long as I can remember. I got given my first video camera when I was 11 and I have been shooting like crazy ever since. At first it was just a huge old camcorder that took VHS tapes. I could never get the footage off the tapes to edit but I would shoot stupid shit all day with my friends and we'd all crowd around a TV and watch later that night. Things progressed from there and I got serious after in High school. I eventually dropped out of Uni to make my first film and wrote email after email until I finally got a couple of starts in the surf industry. That then led to some amazing opportunities. Film has always been a constant in my life.
RILEY: I started surfing a little later, when I was about 13. I spent allot of time out of school living abroad when I was 13/14 so I picked it pretty quickly.
DTV: Of the films you have made, what are your top three favorite films and why?
RILEY: My fav films to date would have to be 'NOW', 'Gravis - Sammy Winter at home' and 'Thom - A Portrait of Modern Youth'. NOW I consider the best surf film I have made - It was a huge leap for me personally and career-wise. It also depicts some of the best memories and moments of my life. Thats a huge part of it for me. The Gravis clip is short but definitely a fav. For me I feel like it is my best cinematography to date. 'Thom's film premiered at the NY surf film festival this year. I funded the project entirely myself and it was more pre/post production then anything I've made previously. It's like nothing else I've made and definitely represents a strong evolution in my work.
DTV: What kind of cameras do you use while shooting?
RILEY: At the moment I have the Sony PMW-EX1, The 7D, a 16mm Bolex and a Nizo super 8mm.
DTV: Do you have any film projects you're working on currently or that we should look for soon?
RILEY: Thom's film will be released in the next few weeks and I have just started working on another film for Analog over the past few months. This one is due to arrive early next year!
Watch new surf videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/surf.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
BMX Tuesday: Terry Adams and MIckey Gaidos
Red Bull BMX rider Terry Adams teamed up with film maker (and bmx rider) Mickey Gaidos to create one of the most professional Flatland BMX solo videos in history. Their film, "Dreams," shares the story of Terry Adams' success in his Flatland BMX career . Check out what Terry and Mickey have to say in the interview below.
DTV: What prompted you to make the film "Dreams" and how long did it take you to film it?
TERRY: The film took exactly one year to make the first version. I wanted to make a DVD/Film that not only showcased my best riding but also let others see how I accomplished my dreams of being a pro rider.
DTV: How was making this full length film different from all the edits that you put out online?
TERRY: The film has a full story with an important message to go with each section. We spent a lot of time on the commentary to make sure my message was very clear to the viewers. Not to mention Mickey put so much effort into filming each riding scene.We wanted to make more than your normal BMX edit. Our goal was to make a movie that your everyday person could relate to in some way. I feel we really accomplished that.
DTV: Which combo took the longest to film?
TERRY: My last trick of the entire film took the longest. It was my "Adams Bomb to peg wheelie to whopper."
DTV: This question is for Mickey Gaidos... Mickey you shot and edited the film. What cameras did you use to shoot the film? What piece of equipment got you the most stoked when making the film?
MICKEY: I started out shooting with just my Panasonic DVX100A, but two days into my trip to
Japan (and probably 20% into the film) the Panny broke so I had to beg, borrow, and
steal whatever cameras I could, to finish the film. So by the time the film was finished, I shot with the Panasonic DVX100A, Panasonic HVX200, Canon XL2, Canon XH-A1, Sony Z1U, Sony EX1, Canon HV20, and the RED ONE (plus whatever format was sent to me from past events).
The extended version of Dreams which we recently completed, we added additional
content that I shot on my Canon 5D Mark II.
Basically the film is one big camera test and like a melting pot of different codecs. Haha.
The one piece of gear that I was most excited to use would definitely be the RED ONE
camera. At the time the RED camera had just recently been released and I was
shooting the 1st feature film in New Orleans to be shot with the RED. We were shooting
on a weekend and the Director was cool enough to let me take the camera offsite to
shoot a few scenes for “Dreams” in our off-hours.
I was so stoked to take the camera and get some “one-on-one” time with it, shooting
flatland completely Run-N-Gun style with the RED was such a blast.
With the set of Zeiss lenses I had and the resolution/frame-rate capabilities of the
camera, I felt like any shot I could imagine I could pull off. Oh and the RAW codec is
freakin’ awesome to work with in post, its hard to go back to dealing with shitty, highly
compressed codecs in post... cough, cough, Canon 5D. I take that back the 5D matched
up really well to the RED in the extended cut. haha!
DTV: Do you have any more BMX film projects planned for the future?
TERRY: I always have something in the works. You just have to wait and see..
MICKEY: Well for right now we are getting ready for a DVD release of the extended cut of
“Dreams”. I hate all the extended/uncut/directors cuts of DVD’s that are released so I
feel like such a hypocrite for releasing this but we had to get it up to 52minutes for
network distribution (The extended cut of Dreams is available now via network
distribution, check your local listings). However I do feel like this is the film that I always
wanted to make and it tells so much more of Terry’s story. We will be releasing further
details over the coming weeks.
I do have a concept for another full-length BMX project. I learned a lot from the process
of making “Dreams” so I will apply all that I’ve learned from that experience into
developing my next project. I do not want to say too much about it right now, at least not
until I get it further developed.
DTV: What prompted you to make the film "Dreams" and how long did it take you to film it?
TERRY: The film took exactly one year to make the first version. I wanted to make a DVD/Film that not only showcased my best riding but also let others see how I accomplished my dreams of being a pro rider.
DTV: How was making this full length film different from all the edits that you put out online?
TERRY: The film has a full story with an important message to go with each section. We spent a lot of time on the commentary to make sure my message was very clear to the viewers. Not to mention Mickey put so much effort into filming each riding scene.We wanted to make more than your normal BMX edit. Our goal was to make a movie that your everyday person could relate to in some way. I feel we really accomplished that.
TERRY: My last trick of the entire film took the longest. It was my "Adams Bomb to peg wheelie to whopper."
DTV: This question is for Mickey Gaidos... Mickey you shot and edited the film. What cameras did you use to shoot the film? What piece of equipment got you the most stoked when making the film?
MICKEY: I started out shooting with just my Panasonic DVX100A, but two days into my trip to
Japan (and probably 20% into the film) the Panny broke so I had to beg, borrow, and
steal whatever cameras I could, to finish the film. So by the time the film was finished, I shot with the Panasonic DVX100A, Panasonic HVX200, Canon XL2, Canon XH-A1, Sony Z1U, Sony EX1, Canon HV20, and the RED ONE (plus whatever format was sent to me from past events).
The extended version of Dreams which we recently completed, we added additional
content that I shot on my Canon 5D Mark II.
Basically the film is one big camera test and like a melting pot of different codecs. Haha.
The one piece of gear that I was most excited to use would definitely be the RED ONE
camera. At the time the RED camera had just recently been released and I was
shooting the 1st feature film in New Orleans to be shot with the RED. We were shooting
on a weekend and the Director was cool enough to let me take the camera offsite to
shoot a few scenes for “Dreams” in our off-hours.
I was so stoked to take the camera and get some “one-on-one” time with it, shooting
flatland completely Run-N-Gun style with the RED was such a blast.
With the set of Zeiss lenses I had and the resolution/frame-rate capabilities of the
camera, I felt like any shot I could imagine I could pull off. Oh and the RAW codec is
freakin’ awesome to work with in post, its hard to go back to dealing with shitty, highly
compressed codecs in post... cough, cough, Canon 5D. I take that back the 5D matched
up really well to the RED in the extended cut. haha!
DTV: Do you have any more BMX film projects planned for the future?
TERRY: I always have something in the works. You just have to wait and see..
MICKEY: Well for right now we are getting ready for a DVD release of the extended cut of
“Dreams”. I hate all the extended/uncut/directors cuts of DVD’s that are released so I
feel like such a hypocrite for releasing this but we had to get it up to 52minutes for
network distribution (The extended cut of Dreams is available now via network
distribution, check your local listings). However I do feel like this is the film that I always
wanted to make and it tells so much more of Terry’s story. We will be releasing further
details over the coming weeks.
I do have a concept for another full-length BMX project. I learned a lot from the process
of making “Dreams” so I will apply all that I’ve learned from that experience into
developing my next project. I do not want to say too much about it right now, at least not
until I get it further developed.
Watch all the new BMX videos everyday here: www.diversiontv.com/bmx.
Join us on facebook.
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