As the skateboarding world reflects on a transformative year, DC Shoes drops their highly anticipated video, No Big Deal, reminding everyone why their team remains a cultural cornerstone in skateboarding. Featuring heavy hitters like Josh Kalis, John Shanahan, and Lucien Clarke, alongside a slew of rising talent, this video isn’t just a celebration of skateboarding—it’s a love letter to the art form, blending style, technique, and the visceral thrill of the streets.

Setting the Stage: DC’s Legacy in Skateboarding

Since its inception in 1994, DC Shoes has been synonymous with skateboarding culture. Known for supporting groundbreaking skaters and producing iconic footwear, DC has played a pivotal role in shaping modern skateboarding. The brand’s earlier videos, like The DC Video (2003), set a high bar for production value and skate progression. With No Big Deal, DC proves that they’re not just riding on nostalgia but are actively contributing to the future of skateboarding.

This year-end release doesn’t just showcase tricks—it cements the DC team’s role in elevating skateboarding to an art form. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Greg Hunt, No Big Deal combines raw street footage with polished cinematography, balancing grit with grace.

The Skaters Who Stole the Show

DC’s team roster for No Big Deal is stacked, featuring a mix of legends and fresh talent. Each skater brings their own distinct style to the table, creating a video that feels both cohesive and diverse. Let’s break down the standout moments from the main players.

Josh Kalis: The Master of Timeless Style

As one of DC’s most iconic riders, Josh Kalis once again proves why he’s a legend. Filmed across several East Coast cities, Kalis delivers a part brimming with his signature smoothness. From switch manuals to flawless backside tailslides, his technical mastery feels as relevant now as it did in the late ‘90s. The use of Big L’s Put It On as his soundtrack nods to skateboarding’s deep connection with hip-hop culture—a link Kalis has championed throughout his career.

John Shanahan: Nostalgia Meets Modern Innovation

Shanahan, known for blending retro aesthetics with progressive skating, turns heads in this video. His part is a visual feast of tech-heavy ledge combos and stylish mid-line adjustments, filmed against gritty urban backdrops. Sporting baggy pants, vintage DC sneakers, and a fearless approach to spots, Shanahan encapsulates the best of ‘90s skateboarding while pushing it forward.

Highlights include a mind-bending switch backside noseblunt down a triple set handrail and an impossibly clean nollie flip over a waist-high barrier. His ability to mix raw power with meticulous control makes his segment one of the video’s most memorable.

Lucien Clarke: Global Icon

Lucien Clarke continues to redefine what it means to be a skateboarder on a global scale. Filmed in his hometown of London and iconic skate destinations like Barcelona, his part is a testament to skateboarding’s international appeal. Clarke’s effortless pop and refined style shine through in clips like a perfect switch frontside flip over the famous Macba ledge.

Clarke’s section also stands out for its music choice, pairing his clips with a smooth reggae-inspired track that pays homage to his Jamaican heritage. This thoughtful integration of culture and style solidifies Clarke as a global ambassador for both DC and skateboarding.

The Rest of the Squad: A Unified Front

While the big names grab headlines, No Big Deal wouldn’t be the masterpiece it is without contributions from the rest of the DC squad. Riders like Wes Kremer, Evan Smith, and Madars Apse deliver jaw-dropping parts that highlight the team’s depth. From Evan’s psychedelic, improvisational style to Madars’ creative spot selection, these skaters embody the boundless possibilities of skateboarding.

Newcomers also make their mark, with standout clips from Amelie Delaunay and Tiago Lemos. Tiago, in particular, continues to amaze with his gravity-defying pop and precise execution, dropping some of the most technical tricks in the video.

Aesthetic Excellence: Greg Hunt’s Direction

Greg Hunt, who has directed iconic skate videos like Mind Field and Propeller, brings his signature cinematic touch to No Big Deal. The video balances raw skateboarding with polished visuals, creating a dynamic viewing experience. Hunt’s ability to showcase the skaters’ personalities through creative angles and atmospheric montages makes the video feel personal and immersive.

Filmed across multiple continents, the locations in No Big Deal become characters in their own right. From the gritty streets of Philadelphia to the sun-drenched plazas of Barcelona, each setting complements the skaters’ styles while showcasing skateboarding’s global reach.

Music: A Carefully Curated Soundtrack

The soundtrack of No Big Deal deserves its own spotlight. Featuring a mix of hip-hop, reggae, jazz, and even some lo-fi beats, the music perfectly matches the vibe of each skater’s part. Standout tracks like MF DOOM’s Doomsday and Erykah Badu’s On & On elevate the skating, adding emotional depth to the visuals.

Music has always played a crucial role in skate videos, and No Big Deal is no exception. The thoughtful curation not only complements the skating but also serves as a reminder of the cultural intersections that make skateboarding so unique.

Themes: Progression, Community, and Resilience

Beyond the tricks and cinematography, No Big Deal is a celebration of skateboarding’s resilience. In a year marked by challenges—from skatepark closures to economic uncertainty—the video underscores the community’s ability to adapt and thrive.

DC also uses the video to highlight the importance of mentorship and legacy. Veterans like Kalis and Shanahan skate alongside younger riders, passing the torch while emphasizing skateboarding’s communal spirit. This dynamic reflects the enduring relevance of skateboarding as a multigenerational pursuit.

Impression: Why No Big Deal Matters

Skateboarding has always been more than just a sport—it’s a cultural movement. No Big Deal reinforces this notion, showcasing skateboarding as an outlet for creativity, self-expression, and community building. In an era where skateboarding has become an Olympic event, DC stays true to the raw, unfiltered essence that drew people to skateboarding in the first place.

The video also highlights skateboarding’s ability to challenge conventions. From the spots chosen to the diverse roster of riders, No Big Deal breaks down barriers, proving that skateboarding is for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

The Future of DC and Skateboarding

As DC wraps up the year with No Big Deal, the video feels like both a culmination and a starting point. With an incredibly talented team and a renewed focus on pushing skateboarding forward, DC shows no signs of slowing down.

The video’s release also coincides with the brand’s latest footwear drop, featuring updated versions of classic models like the Lynx OG and Kalis Lite. These shoes, prominently featured in the video, bridge the gap between nostalgia and innovation, ensuring that DC remains relevant in an ever-changing skateboarding landscape.

Final Thoughts

No Big Deal is more than just a skate video—it’s a testament to skateboarding’s enduring power to inspire and connect. With unforgettable performances from legends and newcomers alike, stunning cinematography, and a carefully curated soundtrack, the video encapsulates everything that makes skateboarding great.

As we move into a new year, No Big Deal serves as a reminder of why we fell in love with skateboarding in the first place. It’s not just about the tricks or the gear—it’s about the stories, the people, and the moments that make skateboarding a way of life.

For fans of DC Shoes and skateboarding as a whole, this video isn’t just a year-end treat—it’s a cultural milestone. Whether you’re an OG skater or someone discovering the scene for the first time, No Big Deal has something for everyone. And in true DC fashion, they’ve proven once again that skateboarding isn’t just a big deal—it’s everything.

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