I AM THALENTE — Film Festival Premiere

The world premiere of* I Am Thalente* is TONIGHT at L.A. Live as part of the 2015 Los Angeles Film Festival! Tickets are available at the LA Film Fest site.

An exuberant skate documentary with a social conscience, I Am Thalente follows Thalente Biyela, a 17-year-old homeless skateboard prodigy in South Africa who catches the eye of the professional skate world when a DIY video of him goes viral. A group of top Pro skaters and figures in the skate world (including Kenny Anderson and legend Tony Hawk) offer Thalente support and an opportunity to pursue his dream of skating and competing in the U.S, rising above his circumstances and helping him shape his own future.

Director Natalie Johns, who grew up in South Africa, has created a moving portrait of teenage struggle and ambition, capturing the extreme highs and lows of success and failure – all framed by the thrilling backdrop of skate parks and competitions from South Africa to Los Angeles. Featuring a vibrant ensemble of young skaters, professional legends, and the memorable figure of teenage skater Thalente Biyela.