17+ Best Rollerskating Movies (List)

Rollerskating movies have been a popular genre for decades, capturing the excitement and energy of this thrilling sport.

From heartwarming stories to high-octane action, these films have entertained audiences around the world.

Best Rollerskating Movies

Here is a list of movies that feature rollerskating as a significant element, showcasing the culture, style, and athleticism of the activity:

“Roll Bounce” (2005)

Directed by Malcolm D. Lee

A coming-of-age film set in the world of 1970s roller disco

“Whip It” (2009)

Directed by Drew Barrymore

A young woman finds her place in a roller derby league

“Xanadu” (1980)

Directed by Robert Greenwald

A musical fantasy film featuring a muse who inspires a man to open a roller disco

“Boogie Nights” (1997)

Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson

Features a memorable rollerskating character in the 1970s adult film industry

“Roller Boogie” (1979)

Directed by Mark L. Lester

A musical romance centered around roller disco

“Skatetown, U.S.A.” (1979)

Directed by William A. Levey

A comedy capturing the roller disco craze of the late 1970s

“Kansas City Bomber” (1972)

Directed by Jerrold Freedman

A drama about a woman who joins a roller derby team

“Rollerball” (1975)

Directed by Norman Jewison

A dystopian film about a violent, futuristic roller skating sport

“Atlantis: Milo’s Return” (2003)

Directed by Victor Cook, Toby Shelton, Tad Stones

Features a segment with a rollerskating race

“Airborne” (1993)

Directed by Rob Bowman

A comedy about a surfer learning to rollerblade

“Solarbabies” (1986)

Directed by Alan Johnson

A sci-fi film featuring rollerskating orphans in a post-apocalyptic world

“The Unholy Rollers” (1972)

Directed by Vernon Zimmerman

A woman joins the roller derby to escape her mundane life

“Derby” (1971)

Directed by Robert Kaylor

A documentary about the world of professional roller derby

“Hell on Wheels” (2007)

Directed by Bob Ray

A documentary about the revival of roller derby

“Roller Life” (2016)

Directed by Katharine Hargrave

A documentary exploring the lives of roller derby athletes

“Futureworld” (1976)

Directed by Richard T. Heffron

A sci-fi film featuring a scene with robots on roller skates

“Skate Crazy” (1980)

Directed by David Winters

A documentary capturing the roller disco phenomenon

“The Fireball” (1950)

Directed by Tay Garnett

A drama about a runaway who becomes a roller derby star

These films, ranging from documentaries to comedies and dramas, highlight the diverse world of rollerskating, from the roller disco era to the modern roller derby revival.

Below we look deeper at some of the best rollerskating movies ever made, highlighting their unique qualities and impact on popular culture.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Rollerskating Movies

Rollerskating movies gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, coinciding with the rise of the roller disco trend.

These films showcased the vibrant roller disco scene, combining music, dance, and roller skating into a visually stunning spectacle.

The popularity of rollerskating movies continued into the 1990s and beyond, with filmmakers exploring different themes and styles within the genre.

1. “Xanadu” (1980)

Directed by Robert Greenwald, “Xanadu” is a cult classic that blends rollerskating, music, and fantasy elements.

Starring Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, the film tells the story of a young artist who falls in love with a mysterious woman who inspires him to open a roller disco.

Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its release, “Xanadu” has gained a dedicated following over the years and is known for its catchy soundtrack.

2. “Roll Bounce” (2005)

“Roll Bounce,” directed by Malcolm D. Lee, takes audiences back to the 1970s roller disco era.

The film follows a group of teenagers who must find a new place to skate after their local roller rink closes down.

With its nostalgic setting and energetic performances, “Roll Bounce” captures the spirit of the era and explores themes of friendship, family, and resilience.

3. “Whip It” (2009)

Directed by Drew Barrymore, “Whip It” is a coming-of-age sports comedy-drama that centers around the world of roller derby.

The film stars Ellen Page as a young woman who discovers her passion for roller derby and joins a team called the Hurl Scouts.

“Whip It” not only showcases the physicality and intensity of roller derby but also explores themes of empowerment and self-discovery.

4. “Brink!” (1998)

Disney Channel Original Movie “Brink!” tells the story of a young inline skater named Andy “Brink” Brinker who joins a sponsored inline skating team to help his family financially.

Directed by Greg Beeman, the film highlights the competitive world of inline skating and the challenges faced by young athletes.

“Brink!” resonated with audiences, becoming one of the most beloved rollerskating movies of its time.

The Impact of Rollerskating Movies

Rollerskating movies have not only entertained audiences but also had a significant impact on popular culture.

These films have influenced fashion trends, music, and even the perception of rollerskating as a sport.

They have also inspired many individuals to take up rollerskating as a hobby or pursue it professionally.

1. Fashion Trends

Rollerskating movies have often showcased vibrant and stylish outfits, influencing fashion trends both on and off the rink.

From disco-inspired costumes in “Xanadu” to the retro fashion in “Roll Bounce,” these films have left a lasting impact on the way people dress while rollerskating.

2. Soundtracks

Many rollerskating movies are known for their memorable soundtracks, featuring popular songs that have become synonymous with the films themselves.

These soundtracks often include a mix of disco, pop, and rock music, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere that complements the on-screen action.

3. Roller Derby Revival

Roller derby, a contact sport played on roller skates, experienced a resurgence in popularity partly due to the influence of films like “Whip It.”

The film brought roller derby into the mainstream, introducing the sport to a wider audience and inspiring many individuals to join local roller derby leagues.

4. Roller Skating Communities

Rollerskating movies have helped foster a sense of community among rollerskaters.

Fans of these films often come together to celebrate their shared love for the sport, organizing roller disco events, and forming online communities where they can connect with fellow enthusiasts.

FAQs – Best Rollerskating Movies

1. What are some classic rollerskating movies?

Classic rollerskating movies include “Xanadu” (1980) and “Roll Bounce” (2005).

2. Are there any rollerskating movies suitable for children?

Yes, “Brink!” (1998) is a family-friendly rollerskating movie that is suitable for children.

3. Which rollerskating movie has the best soundtrack?

“Xanadu” (1980) is known for its catchy soundtrack, featuring songs by Olivia Newton-John and Electric Light Orchestra.

4. Are there any documentaries about rollerskating?

Yes, “United Skates” (2018) is a documentary that explores the roller skating subculture in the United States.

5. Are there any recent rollerskating movies?

“Roller Dreams” (2017) is a documentary that follows the lives of the original Venice Beach roller dancers in the 1980s and their impact on the rollerskating culture.

6. Do rollerskating movies inspire people to take up the sport?

Yes, rollerskating movies have inspired many individuals to take up rollerskating as a hobby or pursue it professionally.

7. Are there any rollerskating movies that focus on roller derby?

“Whip It” (2009) is a rollerskating movie that revolves around the world of roller derby.

8. Do rollerskating movies have a nostalgic appeal?

Yes, rollerskating movies often evoke a sense of nostalgia, particularly for those who grew up during the roller disco era.

9. Are there any rollerskating movies with a romantic storyline?

“Xanadu” (1980) features a romantic storyline between the main characters, played by Olivia Newton-John and Michael Beck.

10. Are there any rollerskating movies that explore the competitive side of the sport?

“Brink!” (1998) is a rollerskating movie that delves into the competitive world of inline skating.

11. Are there any rollerskating movies that showcase the artistry of rollerskating?

“Roller Dreams” (2017) is a documentary that highlights the artistic and creative aspects of rollerskating.

12. Do rollerskating movies have a diverse cast?

Yes, rollerskating movies often feature diverse casts, reflecting the inclusive nature of the sport.

13. Are there any rollerskating movies based on true stories?

“United Skates” (2018) is a documentary that explores the real-life roller skating subculture in the United States.

“Roll Bounce” (2005) is a rollerskating movie that explores the friendships and connections formed within the roller disco community.

15. Are there any rollerskating movies that highlight the athleticism of the sport?

“Whip It” (2009) showcases the physicality and athleticism of roller derby, a contact sport played on roller skates.

Summary – Best Rollerskating Movies

Rollerskating movies have captivated audiences with their unique blend of music, dance, and thrilling sports action.

From the fantasy world of “Xanadu” to the empowering story of “Whip It,” these films have left a lasting impact on popular culture.

They have influenced fashion trends, revived interest in roller derby, and brought people together in rollerskating communities.

Whether you’re a fan of disco-era roller discos or the fast-paced world of roller derby, there is a rollerskating movie out there for everyone.

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