Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story

Nicola B. Marsh and Giovanni Reda's 2022 documentary follows the skateboarder Leo Baker. Baker became known competing in the women's category; as he came to identify as a trans man, his career and his identity came into conflict. The turning point is preparation for the Olympics. Baker was selected for the team, but the competition's categories placed him where he could not be recognised; the narrative shows the decision he made and what it cost. The filming is spread over a long period and uses footage Baker shot himself. Friends and other skateboarders speak. The documentary also records the conduct of the industry and its sponsors. Who it's for: those who follow skate culture and documentary on trans lives. Who it's not for: viewers expecting a sports documentary; the film looks at identity more than at competition.