How V4NY’s “VNS” Skate Video Pays Tribute to New York’s Skateboarding Heritage
When it comes to skateboarding in New York City, there’s always been an undeniable edge—a gritty, unpolished attitude that’s as much about style as it is skill. V4NY’s debut skate film, “VNS,” embodies that raw energy. Released on Saturday, January 23rd, 2021, the retro-style skate video was shot on a classic Sony TRV camcorder using actual film, capturing the imperfect, authentic feel that defined the late ’90s and early 2000s skate scene.
The video features Lower East Side skater Brandon Scott James, with appearances from Eli West Works, Isaiah Thomas, and others, offering a look into the spirit and style of NYC skateboarding at that time.
Behind the Scenes of “VNS”
Shot throughout 2020 amid the pandemic, filming “VNS” came with its own challenges. With far fewer people out on the streets, the city felt quieter—giving the crew a rare chance to skate and film spots across all five boroughs, though mostly in Manhattan. Some days we’d head out and get no usable footage, while other days the clips just kept coming. This stop-and-go rhythm shaped the video’s vibe, capturing both the stillness and energy of NYC during that time.
Looking Back at the Late ’90s and Early 2000s Skate Videos That Inspired “VNS”
The vibe of “VNS” draws heavily from a time when skate videos were more than just films — they were a raw reflection of the culture. If you skated in the late ’90s or early 2000s, you know the feeling: rushing to the local skate shop to grab the latest VHS release, watching it endlessly, then hitting the streets inspired to push your limits.
Here are some of the skate videos from that era that influenced the style and tone of “VNS”:
Toy Machine – “Welcome to Hell” (1996)
Directed by Jamie Thomas, this film was known for its raw and daring approach. It featured skaters like Ed Templeton who pushed creative boundaries, and Elissa Steamer, who opened doors for women in skateboarding.
Zero – “Misled Youth” (1999)
This video brought a straight-to-the-point, rebellious attitude with minimal polish, featuring technical skating from talents like Jim Greco and Erik Ellington.
Shorty’s – “Fulfill the Dream” (1998)
With a stacked team including Chad Muska, Peter Smolik, Brandon Turner, and others, this video combined innovative music and editing styles, helping cement Shorty’s place in skate history.
Alien Workshop – “Photosynthesis” (2000)
A creative leap in skate filmmaking, it mixed artistic visuals, special effects, and technical tricks, influencing how skate videos could be both sport and art.
Flip – “Sorry” (2002)
Known for its fast-paced, chaotic style and energetic soundtrack, featuring skaters like Heath Kirchart and Arto Saari, it defined much of the early 2000s skate video energy.
Emerica – “This is Skateboarding” (2003)
Filmed over two years, this documentary-style video offered an inside look into the lives of the skaters, blending raw footage with timelapses and photography to tell a deeper story.
The “VNS” Merch Drop
To celebrate the release of “VNS,” V4 also dropped a limited-edition long sleeve shirt featuring the video’s box cover logo. Like the video itself, the shirt was simple, bold, and designed to be worn while skating or as a collectible piece. The limited run made it a unique part of V4’s legacy.
Why “VNS” Still Matters
While “VNS” is a product of its time, it’s also a way to honor the gritty, unpolished spirit that NYC skateboarding has always had. The late ’90s and early 2000s videos weren’t just about tricks—they were about attitude, style, and community. Revisiting “VNS” is about keeping that connection alive, inspiring new skaters to find their own path on the streets.
Whether you missed it the first time or are watching it again with fresh eyes, “VNS” remains a genuine look at a crew and a city pushing forward in their own way.
Watch “VNS” on YouTube
📹 Experience the spirit and style of NYC skateboarding captured the way it was meant to be seen. Watch the full VNS skate video here → Watch Now