90 Degrees

A micro-short film organically exploring a day in Chicago’s skate and hardcore scene with the help of a few homegrown punks. A gonzo love letter to the youth in revolt. A visual study, both voyeuristic and participatory, told through both the places and faces, and acts of violence and love.

The most hurtful spaces, nurture the most giving affection.

All shot on beautifully rich and nostalgic 16mm film.

  • Finn O'Connell
    Director
    Believe You Me.
  • Finn O'Connell
    Writer
    Believe You Me.
  • Joshua Rainer
    Producer
  • Tyler Acosta
    Producer
  • Bennett Brown
    Key Cast
  • Leonzo
    Key Cast
  • Jahvauri
    Key Cast
  • Swerve
    Key Cast
  • Fatboy
    Key Cast
  • Finn O'Connell
    Director of Photography
    Believe You Me.
  • Finn O'Connell
    Editor
    Believe You Me.
  • Nicki Coyle
    Film Processing & Scanning
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Experimental, Short
  • Genres:
    Experimental Documentary, Landscape, Action Sports, Live Music, Visual Study, Coming of Age
  • Runtime:
    3 minutes 51 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 23, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    1,500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    16mm
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • Chicago Underground Film Festival
    Chicago
    United States
    September 18, 2025
    World Premiere
    Official Selection
Director Biography - Finn O'Connell

Finn O’Connell is a filmmaker and Cinematographer based out of Chicago, IL. Growing up a dancer, Finn has channeled his creative pursuit into experimental narratives focused on identity, environment, and non-linear storytelling, often interpreted through movement and body. His work has largely been in examination of or in conversation with the fringe, seeking to organically capture those who rebel.

He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in December of 2022 through a major in film production and a minor in journalistic studies at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Finn has experimented with his craft through both independent and commissioned ventures, creating short films, video installations, dance exhibitions, music videos, advertisements, etc.

Finn won recent recognition with his short film "Believe You Me." An experimental landscape film centered on fleeing the cold and lifeless midwestern landscape.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I wanted to make a love letter to the communities that love me. But where is this world now? From the outside, looking in, punks are no longer. Like we are examining the culture of the past.

They remain.

This short honors the attitude of the "Gonzo" observer. That is to say, throwing a camera into the fray of modern skating, hardcore, and youth culture. I didn't want my hand as a director to be seen, allowing 90 Degrees to remain a visual study. A statement of the urchins. Showing how this world congregates, enjoys themselves, and beautifully fosters community through both violence and love.

Some seek pain. They hurt with kindness and respect. In a modern landscape of pure hatred and violence, I feel as though this message is more important than ever.