Synopsis
This remake of the classic 1975 science fiction film follows the same basic story line but focuses far more on the sports action of the fictional game at its center. Chris Klein stars as all-American athlete Jonathan Cross, the most popular player of "Rollerball," a violent 21st century sport mixing elements of basketball, hockey, roller derby, and extreme sports, along with the development of live wagering that tracks each game's action. Along with his friends and teammates Marcus (L.L. Cool J) and Aurora (Rebecca Romijn-Stamos), Jonathan is living the life of a media celebrity and millionaire, enjoying the adoration of fans and all of the perks that his fame brings. When the creator of Rollerball, Alexi Petrovich (Jean Reno), realizes that the sport's ratings spike during the on-court accidents that are de rigueur for the game, he schemes to create the bloody incidents that are popular with viewers but put the athletes in mortal jeopardy. Soon, Jonathan and his friends find themselves pawns in a vast corporate conspiracy in which their lives are far less important than profits. Rollerball (2002) also stars pop singer Pink in her acting debut.
What Critics Say
Rollerball is slightly entertaining, if you don't stop and think about it too much. Otherwise, you'll realize how silly it actually is.
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Movie News
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"Rollerball" opening knocked back
The John McTiernan-directed remake of the 1975 cult classic Rollerball will be shoved from its Aug. 17 release date until the first quarter of 2002 by new MGM marketing and distribution chief Robert Levin, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Levin denied rumors that the move was made due to the film's poor quality or that McTiernan couldn't meet the post-production schedule. "It's not him; it's me," said Levin, who took over his position at MGM a week ago. McTiernan released a statement expressing support for Levin's decision. A firm release date will be disclosed later this week.
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ROLE CALL: Rebecca Plays 'Rollerball'
HOLLYWOOD, July 26, 2000 -- She was virtually silent as the shape-shifting mutant Mystique in "X-Men," but model-turned-actress Rebecca Romijn-Stamos impressed producers of the new "Rollerball" remake enough to get the starring female role. Romijn-Stamos will join other confirmed cast members in the futuristic sports flick, including Jean Reno, Chris Klein and LL Cool J, according to Daily Variety. The picture begins shooting this week in Montreal under the direction of John McTiernan.
JOINING THE 'PARTY': Variety reports that Parker Posey has joined the cast of "Anniversary Party," which begins shooting this week in Los Angeles. The film is being codirected and coscripted by Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cumming and costars Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline, among others. The film will be shot on digital video.