The 2022 International Sport Film Festival (ISFF) has awarded “Janwaar” the Best Short Film award, and it’s easy to see why. Directed by Danny Schmidt, this 10-minute documentary tells the inspiring story of how a skatepark transformed the lives of children in a small village in India.
The film takes us into the world of Janwaar Castle, a community skatepark built in Madhya Pradesh in 2015. The park was created in part by Ulrike Reinhard, a German community activist and author who was inspired by the Skateistan project. With the help of donations from artists and skate-aid, Reinhard was able to raise enough money to build the park and provide equipment for the young skaters.
Schmidt’s film captures the incredible impact that the skatepark has had on the village. Through interviews with the young skaters and the village elders, we see how skateboarding has brought together two castes that previously had little interaction. We also see how the park has given the children a sense of purpose, creativity, and joy.
The film’s cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the Indian countryside and the energy of the skaters. The editing is tight and effective, weaving together interviews, skate footage, and scenes of village life to create a powerful narrative.
Overall, “Janwaar” is a moving and inspiring film that shows how sport can break down barriers and transform lives. It’s a well-deserved winner of the Best Short Film award at ISFF 2022.
