Credited cast, sorted by IMDb STARmeter: | |||
Tony Hawk | |||
![]() |
Joanna A. Arida | ||
![]() |
Mohammed Zakaria | ||
Joanna Arida |
Children's laughter and the sound of skateboards rolling have replaced explosions and screaming. The war torn Middle East acts as a backdrop to this amazing story of human survival. They are not 'refugees' they are humans. The 7 Hills skate park in Amman, Jordan offers an incredible oasis in a land riddled with war and tragedy. The city of Amman houses some of the largest numbers of refugees throughout the world. Refugees from Gaza, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Sudan come to the skate park every week to be taught how to skate by volunteers from all over the world as well. It is a joy to see the kids come alive while learning together and being in a community. The term "refugee" removes humanity from the individual. The Amman, Jordan-based 7 Hills skatepark manager, Mohammed Zakaria, shows how people can find hope and expression through skateboarding and community.
7 Hills is a special kind of documentary with its picturesque setting, skateboarding, and kids coming together. Amman, Jordan, works as the backdrop, and its diversity and excitement come through with every shot. The movie highlights its locals, ex-pats, and refugees who congregate in the city and a specific skatepark that promotes democracy, equality, and community.
For these skateboarders, and many in the world, it's about "the way you see things," overcoming "failure," and the "mental challenge." As somebody who has seen his fair share of skateboard movies, I would say this is not just another skateboard movie. 7 Hills is the kind of documentary I need and want to see. Great music, editing, direction, and a big heart. Bravo.