The dystopian sci-fi Rollerball features one of James Caan’s more underrated performances.
The action is set in a corporate-controlled world, which is passionate about the fictional sport of rollerball.
The rationale behind the violent game is to demonstrate the worthlessness of individualism, something that protagonist Jonathan (Caan) represents.
Rollerball sees the chair of an energy corporation do everything in his power to knock the persistent Jonathan down.
The film’s social commentary is accompanied by some thrilling action sequences.
The final game in Rollerball is especially stirring, due to the imagery of the brutal and extremely physically demanding sport. However, critics at the time weren’t as impressed. Caan was praised for his performance, but other elements of the film failed to impress.
Yet, in the 50 years since Rollerball‘s premiere, the film has found a more receptive audience of its story.
Rollerball (1975): Jewison’ Dystopian Sci-Fi, Starring James Caan
Rollerball at 50
Directed by Norman Jewison
The dystopian sci-fi Rollerball features one of James Caan’s more underrated performances.
The action is set in a corporate-controlled world, which is passionate about the fictional sport of rollerball.
The rationale behind the violent game is to demonstrate the worthlessness of individualism, something that protagonist Jonathan (Caan) represents.
Rollerball sees the chair of an energy corporation do everything in his power to knock the persistent Jonathan down.
The film’s social commentary is accompanied by some thrilling action sequences.
The final game in Rollerball is especially stirring, due to the imagery of the brutal and extremely physically demanding sport. However, critics at the time weren’t as impressed. Caan was praised for his performance, but other elements of the film failed to impress.
Yet, in the 50 years since Rollerball‘s premiere, the film has found a more receptive audience of its story.