Nico Swan: Fly High DIY

Fly High DIY was chosen for Red Bull’s Establishing Shot: A Filmmaker Launchpad.

Director Nico Swan traveled to Philadelphia’s underground and DIY scene with his friends slash film crew. The crew comprises cameraman John Testa, road manager, production coordinator Julia Koza, production assistant and cohost Isaiah Kane (Steezy), camera assistant Indira, sound mixer Nick Mastorakis, and Swan. Throughout their ventures, Fly High DIY, presented by Red Bull, explores the city’s skateparks, abandoned buildings, and basements where moshpit-filled punk parties and concerts take place.

The 20-minute film shows the group’s trek to Philadelphia — displaying their stops in-between, like Cleveland, Ohio, the car ride, and connecting with different communities. The DIY Philly community is often referred to as the Real Philly Goblins, artist Molly Dwyer, and punk band Dummy Pass are some of the featured Goblins throughout the film.