A fictionalized rendition of the events and figures described in the award-winning documentary "Dogtown and Z-Boys," this film tells the story of the young skateboarding enthusiasts who rose to fame and riches in Southern California in the 1970s. Written by that film's creator Stacy Peralta and directed by Catherine Hardwicke ("thirteen"), "Lords of Dogtown" takes a surprisingly gritty approach that gives the material some gravitas but also robs it of some of its fun. With its handsome young male stars frequently shirtless, the film could reach some commercial traction thanks to its appeal to teenage girls as well as boys.

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