SK8 is an outstanding example of great writing that appeals to skateboarding fans and non-skaters alike, making the show highly accessible to viewers who may never skate themselves. While there may be plenty of cliches and stereotypes present, all are executed so as to maintain an air of fun rather than cheeseiness.
Reki and Langa serve as dual protagonists, evolving from friends into strong allies over time. There’s also Mitsuka, an exhibitionist English teacher who wears lingerie in class while reading out erotic stories for her students to read aloud; she even flirts with both male and female students – making SK8 one of the first skateboarding animes that explore issues surrounding sexuality, consent and desire with an originality that feels unique rather than repetitive.
Though it would have been lovely to witness Reki and Langa becoming romantic partners (there may still be hope in season two!), that wasn’t what this show intended to explore; rather it focused on showing the unfortunate truth that sometimes passion alone may not suffice – be it sport or hobby-related; sometimes good players or artists simply lack enough talent to move to higher levels and this realization can be painful.
While other characters in SK8 may have more to do, she still manages to shine and we can’t wait for what they have planned in season two!