This Irish Short Film Looks At Derelict Dublin Through The Eyes Of A Skater
This Irish Short Film Looks At Derelict Dublin Through The Eyes Of A Skater
Words: Dray Morgan
Photo: City in Crisis
City In Crisis is a new short film, directed by Louis O’Flynn-Martin, that takes us on a journey through Dublin from the perspective of the skateboarding community. A project two years in the making, the film acts as a form of visual protest against the increasing concentration of wealth in the city and neglect of deprived areas.
Skating past anti-homeless infrastructure, tent-filled alleyways, derelict property and declining cultural spaces, the film couples a community commonly pushed to the fringes of culture with visual surroundings also swept under the rug by society.
The film features skateboarder, Phili Halton, who was a key member of the movement to block Portobello Skate Plaza from being turned into a hotel development location.
The skating visuals offer fleeting moments of freedom against harsh backdrops of defensive architecture, a worsening housing crisis and the erosion of cultural spaces. Spoken word artist Mikey Cullen lends his narration to the script of O’Flynn-Martin.
“This film is a visual protest, a call for change, and a spotlight on the growing divides in our communities as profit-driven development reshapes the city we love.” said Louis.
“City in Crisis” is set to screen later in 2025. Click here for more information on the film.
