Let's open with what Weird and Revered is and how it got started.
Weird & Revered is a BMX crew loosely based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. There are a few parts to our “origin story.”
Growing up in rural Alberta, I spent much of my childhood and youth riding BMX alone or with my brother. Once I reached driving age, I started meeting people in the city and slowly integrated into the Edmonton BMX scene. There were a few people I rode with regularly, but we did not have a formal “crew.” That changed in December 2014 when I was on a trip to California. I was inspired to finally create some sort of brand.
For the crew logo, my friend, Henry Young sketched a creepy face composed of raw flesh with large, beady eyes. Meanwhile, my friend, Dominic Ennamorato and I came up with the name, "Weird & Revered." The "weird" piece represents the unconventional riding and personalities of everyone involved. The "revered" piece is more focused on the idea of being a role model to others. We are all extremely dedicated to BMX and aim to represent it in a positive light. I want kids to watch the videos and not only be stoked on riding, but also be comfortable with who they are. Be yourself. Stay weird.
In January 2015 we released the first Weird & Revered video with footage I had from the previous Fall. So rider wise at the time, the crew was really just Thomas Henderson, Colin Reimer, Dan Gosselin, and myself. Since then, it’s obviously evolved into a much larger, inclusive group.
Tell us a bit about why you wanted to film a full length DVD.
The project was an attempt to strengthen the Edmonton BMX scene, showcase local talent, and push our riding to the next level.The DVD also gave me an excuse to travel more.
Most importantly though, I feel obligated to capture memories on video for my friends and for myself. As a three-year film project, “Vagabond Squad” documents some of the most joyous and difficult moments of my early-twenties.