In a remarkable movement of skateboarding prowess and cinematic artistry, Felipe Gustavo embarks on a breathtaking journey through the urban landscapes of Eastern Asia in the film PARAÍSO. Directed by the visionary Chris Mulhern, this project not only serves as a showcase for Felipe’s technical mastery but also commemorates the release of his signature Superstar ADV shoe. Alongside fellow skateboarders Vincent Milou and Miles Silvas, Felipe immerses himself in the smooth, marble-plated plazas that define some of the region’s most iconic cityscapes.

The film is not just a skateboarding highlight reel; it is an artistic exploration of movement, architecture, and culture, pushing the boundaries of what a skateboarding video can achieve. By blending high-level street skating with cinematic storytelling, PARAÍSO celebrates the universal nature of skateboarding while offering a glimpse into the unique urban environments of Eastern Asia.

Exploring Eastern Asia’s Marble Paradises

Eastern Asia has long been revered within the global skateboarding community for its immaculate architecture and expansive public spaces. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea boast vast plazas adorned with polished marble, perfect ledges, and seamlessly integrated stair sets—elements that skateboarders dream of. These urban landscapes, often constructed for aesthetic and functional purposes, unintentionally serve as the perfect playground for street skating.

In PARAÍSO, Felipe Gustavo, Vincent Milou, and Miles Silvas effortlessly weave through these environments, transforming each city into a living skatepark. The film beautifully captures the fluidity of movement, as the skaters engage with their surroundings in a way that only a skateboarder can—seeing lines where others see obstacles, making use of public spaces in ways their designers never envisioned.

The urban settings of Eastern Asia, particularly in places like Shanghai, Seoul, and Tokyo, provide the ideal backdrop for technical skateboarding. Known for their clean, geometric aesthetics, these cities allow for a contrast between human motion and architectural stillness, making every trick executed feel like a dance with the urban landscape. The polished marble tiles, which are both visually striking and smooth underfoot, allow for precision control, amplifying the beauty of technical skating.

Felipe Gustavo’s Signature Superstar ADV: A Tribute to Style and Functionality

At the heart of PARAÍSO is the unveiling of Felipe Gustavo’s signature Superstar ADV, a shoe that merges classic Adidas heritage with the demands of modern street skateboarding. Designed in collaboration with Adidas, this special edition sneaker reflects Felipe’s refined personal style and performance-driven approach.

The Superstar ADV retains the timeless shell-toe design, a hallmark of Adidas’ influence on both skateboarding and hip-hop culture, but introduces new innovations tailored to skateboarding. The key enhancements include:

• Reinforced durability: A critical feature for enduring the wear and tear of technical flip tricks and ledge grinds.

• Enhanced cushioning: Providing impact protection for high-impact skating, ensuring comfort without compromising board feel.

• Streamlined aesthetic: Maintaining a classic yet modern look that seamlessly transitions from skate sessions to everyday wear.

Felipe’s dedication to technical precision and style resonates in the Superstar ADV’s design, making it a perfect representation of his skateboarding philosophy. His collaboration with Adidas underscores his influence in the skateboarding community, solidifying his place among the elite skaters who have shaped modern street skating.

Chris Mulhern’s Cinematic Vision: Capturing the Soul of Skateboarding

Director Chris Mulhern is renowned for his ability to blend high-level cinematography with raw, authentic skateboarding, and PARAÍSO is a testament to his visionary storytelling. His approach transcends traditional skate videos, elevating the genre to an artistic experience that immerses viewers in both the action and the environment.

Mulhern’s mastery is evident in his attention to detail, using:

• Dynamic angles that emphasize the architecture and the skaters’ interaction with their surroundings.

• Slow-motion sequences that capture the finesse and technical precision behind each trick.

• Close-up shots highlighting the intricate footwork and board control required for elite-level street skating.

Beyond his cinematographic techniques, Mulhern’s collaboration with photographer Zander Taketomo ensures that both motion and still imagery convey the energy and artistry of skateboarding. The result is a film that not only showcases the physicality of skating but also provides a visual exploration of urban environments, reshaping the way viewers perceive these cities.

In PARAÍSO, Mulhern does more than document skateboarding—he tells a story of exploration, creativity, and cultural interaction. His ability to integrate the cityscapes into the narrative makes the film a love letter to urban spaces and their potential as canvases for human expression.

Vincent Milou and Miles Silvas: A Dynamic Contrast in Styles

While Felipe Gustavo’s technical mastery is the central focus, the presence of Vincent Milou and Miles Silvas adds depth and contrast to the film. Each skater brings a unique style that enhances the visual storytelling of PARAÍSO.

• Vincent Milou is known for his explosive energy and spontaneity. His skating is characterized by bold, unpredictable trick selection and a fearless approach to obstacles. His ability to take creative lines adds an element of surprise, making each session feel organic and exciting.

• Miles Silvas, on the other hand, embodies effortless smoothness and precision. His calculated, fluid style perfectly complements the clean, modern architecture of Eastern Asia’s urban landscapes. Every trick is executed with a level of control that makes even the most difficult maneuvers look natural.

The interplay between these three skaters—Felipe’s technical prowess, Vincent’s unpredictability, and Miles’ smooth finesse—creates a rich, dynamic experience. Their sessions together highlight the diversity within skateboarding, proving that individual expression is at the core of the culture.

“PARAÍSO”: A Skateboarding Masterpiece That Transcends Borders

PARAÍSO is far more than just a promotional piece for Felipe Gustavo’s Superstar ADV. It is a celebration of skateboarding’s power to connect cultures, inspire creativity, and redefine urban landscapes. The film seamlessly blends high-level technical skating with artistic cinematography, offering a fresh perspective on familiar urban environments.

By documenting Felipe, Vincent, and Miles navigating Eastern Asia’s marble paradises, PARAÍSO serves as a testament to skateboarding’s universal appeal. It reminds us that, regardless of location or background, skateboarding remains a shared language, fostering community and artistic expression.

For those who live and breathe skateboarding, PARAÍSO stands as a masterpiece—a film that not only pushes the boundaries of technical skating but also elevates the storytelling potential of skate cinematography. It is a work of passion, innovation, and collaboration, making it a must-watch for both seasoned skaters and newcomers alike.

Watch the Full Film: “PARAÍSO” by Adidas Skateboarding

For an immersive experience, you can watch the official video here:

adidas Skateboarding Presents /// Felipe Gustavo: PARAÍSO

 

 

 

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