Rollerball is a 1975 science fiction film directed by Norman Jewison from a screenplay by William Harrison, who adapted his own short story "Roller Ball Murder", which first appeared in 1973 in Esquire magazine.
Rollerball is a 2001 remake of the 1975 science fiction film of the same name. This updated 'remake' of the film was directed by John McTiernan and has a much greater concentration on action and more muted social and political overtones. Unlike the first film, it takes place in the present rather than a seemingly dystopian future.
The film sees World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) personality Paul Heyman starring as an announcer while Shane McMahon, son of WWE owner Vince McMahon, can be seen in one scene. Popular singer P!nk can be seen throughout the film on large video screens, as a singer playbacking to several songs. There is also a concert scene in which the Metal band Slipknot plays the song "I Am Hated" from their album Iowa.
Upon its release, the film met with harsh critical disdain and poor box-office returns. As a guest on Late Night with Conan O'Brien , LL Cool J admitted that the film "sucked," despite some critics praising his performance as the best out of the bunch.
In a futuristic society where corporations have replaced countries, the violent game of Rollerball is used to control the populace by demonstrating the futility of individuality. However, one player, Jonathan E., rises to the top, and fights for his personal freedom and threatens the corporate control. Written by Jeff Hansen
The year is 2018. There is no crime and there are no more wars. Corporations are now the leaders of the world, as well as the controllers of the people. A violent futuristic game known as Rollerball is now the recreational sport of the world, with teams representing various areas competing for the title of champion. The defending championship team, the Houston team led by the determined ten-year veteran Johnathan E., are looking to repeat as champions. However, Bartholomew, the sinister corporate head, wants Johnathan to retire, even though he is the most respected athlete of his time. Johnathan's rebellious quest will not come out with complications, both for him and his teammates, after he decides to continue playing despite Bartholomew's threats. Written by David Landers
Johnathan Cross, a lover of extreme sports, is recruited by Alexi Petrovich to star in his sportive invention, Rollerball. Johnathan accepts and learns the ropes of Rollerball: The players are on Rollerblades, trying to bring a heavy metal ball into a high goal. Also, there are motorcyclists around to bring momentum to the players. Oh yes, and there are no rules in the game. During his skyrocketing career, Johnathan has to experience what Alexi has found out: Blood brings more viewing pleasure to the audience. So, Alexi starts to bribe members of the different teams to cause more trouble than necessary on the field, and the viewers love it. Only a little later, Johnathan's life is already in extreme danger as well as those of his friends and teammates. In a final game, Johnathan and his team have to fight for mere survival against their real opponent - their boss Alexi Petrovich. Written by Julian Reischl
