M&C Saatchi Documentary, SKATEGOAT, Receives International Recognition
SKATEGOAT, the critically acclaimed documentary by THIS.Film Studio (part of M&C Saatchi Group), continues its extraordinary success story with multiple international accolades and festival selections. Following its world premiere at the 2024 Sydney Film Festival, where it claimed the coveted GIO Audience Award, the film has garnered significant global recognition.
In just the past few weeks, SKATEGOAT celebrated these remarkable achievements:
Winner: Best Documentary – Toronto Documentary Film Festival
Winner: Best Documentary – LA Documentary Film Festival
Official Selection & Competition: Edinburgh Film Festival
Official Selection: NYLIFF – New York Long Island Film Festival
Finalist: NYIFF – New York International Film Festival
Semi-finalist: International Indie Film & Screenplay Festival
Nominee: Australian Academy Cinema Television Acts 2024
This momentum builds on the film’s world premiere success, where audiences were captivated by its raw, heartfelt narrative and electrifying soundtrack.
A Story That Transcends Borders
Directed by acclaimed graffiti artist and music video visionary Van Alpert, SKATEGOAT chronicles the life of Leandre Sanders, affectionately known as “Skategoat.” From the streets of Los Angeles and Venice Beach to his rise as a global professional skateboarding icon, Sanders' story is one of resilience, ambition, and passion.
Seven Years in the Making
SKATEGOAT is the latest long-form documentary from THIS.Film Studio, the Australian production powerhouse behind Bra Boys and Fighting Fear. Spanning seven years, the film is a testament to storytelling excellence and the team’s commitment to producing impactful branded content and documentaries.
Brand Collaboration
SKATEGOAT seamlessly embeds its supporting brands into the fabric of skating subculture. Levi’s came on board at the start of production and Cariuma Shoes joined four years ago after signing Sanders. The film's American release coincided with the launch of Sanders’ signature Skategoat shoes.
Michael Lawrence, founder of THIS.Film Studio, expressed gratitude for the film’s success, "Winning so many awards is a humbling moment for everyone involved. It’s been an incredible privilege to document Leandre’s story, a journey of love, ambition, and resilience that transcends all borders.”
Audiences worldwide can look forward to experiencing the kinetic energy and emotional depth of SKATEGOAT. International partners and platforms will be announced in 2025.
In Australia and New Zealand, the film is available now to rent or buy on major platforms, including YouTube, Apple, Google Play, and Amazon.
