The story that attracted press coverage everywhere from Good Morning America to Fuji TV is about to hit the big screen. “Shred America,” a documentary about four Chicago men who skateboarded from Chicago to New York City, will debut March 24 at the Patio Theater in Chicago.
Michael Kosciesza and Arthur Swidzinski of Niles have been friends since junior high. A passion for skateboarding would hold them virtually inseparable into adulthood. One morning in 2007, feeling inspired, Michael called Arthur with a clear message, “Let’s do something crazy!” From there, the two 20-year-olds came up with an idea: skateboard from Chicago to New York City and make a documentary. They recruited their friends, James Lagen of Des Plaines, IL and Anthony Michal of Park Ridge, IL to be the bike support and cameramen. Naively anticipating a smooth journey, the group set out from “The Bean” at Millennium Park in June 2008.
Shred America takes you on a wild, 36 day, 1000-mile skateboard ride through six states that will make you feel like you’re riding along with them; have you reminiscing about your forgotten youth; and, by the end of the film, make you understand exactly how NOT to skateboard across the country.
Beyond the Sidewalk , a short documentary film about the first cross-country skateboard trip in 1976, will screen prior to Shred America with legendary skateboarder Jack Smith in attendance. A Q & A with the filmmakers will follow the screening along with an after party in the theater lobby.
Tickets for the premiere are available here or at the Patio Theater Box Office.