Review of Rollerball (2002) by Richard C — 12 Nov 2006

The world is no londer defined by nations, large corporations have replaced national governments, war is obsolete and men beat each other to a pulp whilst roller-skating... Yes this was the somewhat bizarre futuristic version espoused by author William Harrison in 1975 and whose short story this film was adapted from. Instead of engaging in violence the violence instead is allowed to vent its frustations by watching a sport that incorporates aspects of ice hockey, speedway and basketball. Caan plays the star player who's God-like status unsettles the Executive Board and they decide to substitute him...permanently.

Those involved in this film obviously intended it to pose deep philosophical questions about man's inherent relationship with violence and the dangers of unrestricted power. However, the film is nothing more than a glorified B-movie and the attempts at social commentary merely acts as unnecessary padding between the action scenes. At that's where the entertainment lies - the bone crunching game sequences. Well that and the kitsch 70s "futuristic" decor and lounge music (which of course makes the film out-dated straight away).

Overall this is a decent piece of entertainment which is aided by a solid performance from Caan. With regards to the underlying "message", well that can be taken with a pinch of salt - just watch it for the limb smashing....