Stop comparing it to the documentary because...

Rating: 10/10 (8 June 2005)

THIS IS A MOVIE! And a great one at that.
People have to stop comparing it to the doc, because they are very different things! If you compare this to the doc, then you have to compare every movie that was ever adapted to its original source material. It's one thing to list the differences, but it's crazy to tell people not to see a movie because of the differences. When was the last time you heard a critic (which can be anybody) say, "...that film was nothing like the book. You should read the book instead." If people really think like that, then they should treat each film the same.
You have to remember, THIS IS A MOVIE, based on reality. That means that some of it will be FICTION. With most films, people should be entertained. Ms. Hardwicke does a great job of entertaining the audience and staying true to the source material. Obviously, she can't cover every single skater that was introduced in the documentary, but she does give them a presence while dedicating the film to Dogtown's three most recognizable skaters.
People should give this movie a chance, and allow themselves to be taken on a fun ride. It's a cool film that isn't just for skateboarders (which I am not), just like "RAGING BULL" isn't just for boxers.
Allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised.