Looking for the BEST Roller Skating Movies and TV Shows of ALL TIME? Throwing a Roller Skating Party and looking for a fun, roller skating to play in the background? Maybe you’re ROLLER SKATE CRAZY and want to start watching all the cult classics of the sport? You’ll want to check out our exhaustive list of EVERY roller skating movie ever made.
These classic roller skating movies will transport you back to the golden age of roller skating. A magical place where dreams are made and hearts race along with the beat of the music. We’ll be taking a trip down memory lane to explore the best roller skate movies of all time. From retro classics to modern-day gems, these films have captured the essence of roller skate culture.
First we’ll give you our top 10 BEST roller skating movies of all time and then we’ll run down ALL of the roller skating movies and tv shows with video previews | trailers along with short summaries to help you pick your next roller skate flick!
Top 10 Roller Skating Movies of All Time
#1 Whip It (2009) – Ellen Page Drew Barrymore
#2 Roll Bounce (2005) – Nick Cannon
#3 Skateland (2010) – Ashley Green
#4 Skatetown, U.S.A. (1979) – Patrick Swayze, Scott Baio
#5 Roller Boogie (1979) – Linda Blair
#6 Xanadu (1980) – Olivia Newton John, Gene Kelley
#7 Solar Babies (1986) – Jason Patric
#8 Rollerball (1975) – James Caan (also re-made in 2002)
#9 Airborne (1993) – Shane McDermott, Seth Green
#10 Unholy Rollers (1972) – Claudia Jennings
Roller Skating TV Shows
Saturdays (2023)
“Saturdays” is a 2023 Disney+ TV show that revolves around the life of a young girl named Remy, who discovers her passion for roller skating and joins a local roller derby team named “Saturdays.” As Remy navigates the challenges of adolescence, she finds friendship, empowerment, and a sense of belonging within the diverse and supportive community of roller derby. The series is known for its heartwarming storylines, thrilling action, and vibrant cast of characters. The principal actors in the show include Isabella Gomez as Remy, Danielle Brooks as Coach Katrina, and newcomers Amara Okafor, Jahi Di’Allo Winston, and Marisol Nichols, who play Remy’s teammates and mentors on the Saturdays team.
Roller Skating Movies from the 2000’s
Roll Bounce (2005)
“Roll Bounce” is a 2005 film set in the late 1970s that follows a teenage roller skater named Xavier who, after losing his mother, moves from the North side of Chicago to the South side. There he and his friends form a roller disco team and compete against their rivals in a local roller rink. Along the way, Xavier falls for a girl named Naomi and learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and family. The film stars Bow Wow as Xavier, with supporting roles from Chi McBride as his father, Nick Cannon as his friend Bernard, Meagan Good as Naomi, and Jurnee Smollett-Bell as his sister. Other notable cast members include Mike Epps, Wesley Jonathan, and Kellita Smith. “Roll Bounce” is a fun and nostalgic movie that captures the energy and spirit of roller disco and celebrates the importance of community and coming together in difficult times.
Whip It (2009)
“Whip It” is a 2009 coming-of-age film directed by Drew Barrymore and set in the world of roller derby. The movie follows the story of Bliss Cavendar, a teenager living in a small Texas town who discovers roller derby and becomes a member of the Hurl Scouts team, despite her mother’s disapproval. As Bliss navigates the challenges of training, competition, and balancing her new passion with her other responsibilities, she learns important lessons about independence, friendship, and finding one’s place in the world. The film stars Ellen Page as Bliss, with supporting roles from Kristen Wiig as a fellow Hurl Scout, Alia Shawkat as Bliss’s best friend, and Drew Barrymore as a roller derby veteran. Other notable cast members include Eve, Juliette Lewis, and Jimmy Fallon. “Whip It” is a fun and empowering film that celebrates the strength and diversity of women, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
Skateland (2010)
“Skateland” is a 2010 film set in the early 1980s in a small Texas town where a group of friends spend their days working at the local roller rink. The movie follows the story of Ritchie Wheeler, a high school graduate who must confront the uncertainty of his future as the rink faces closure and his own relationships and friendships begin to change. As Ritchie navigates the challenges of growing up and moving on, he discovers the importance of holding onto the memories and experiences that have shaped him. The film stars Shiloh Fernandez as Ritchie, with supporting roles from Ashley Greene as his love interest, Heath Freeman as his best friend, and Brett Cullen and Melinda McGraw as his parents. Other notable cast members include Taylor Handley, A.J. Buckley, and Haley Ramm. “Skateland” is a poignant and nostalgic film that captures the spirit and atmosphere of small-town America in the early 1980s, and explores themes of youth, friendship, and the passage of time.
Derby Crazy Love (2013)
“Derby Crazy Love” is a 2013 documentary film that delves into the world of roller derby and its passionate community of athletes, fans, and organizers. The movie follows the stories of several roller derby skaters from different backgrounds and regions, including a mother of three who uses derby as an outlet for her creativity and strength, a young woman from a conservative Christian family who finds acceptance and belonging through the sport, and a veteran skater who struggles to maintain her physical and emotional balance as she ages. Through interviews, archival footage, and on-track action, “Derby Crazy Love” explores the history, culture, and impact of roller derby, and celebrates the resilience, camaraderie, and empowerment that it provides to those who participate in it. The film features real-life roller derby skaters, including Kim “Rocket” Brown, Stephanie “Unleasha Moore” Lewis, Suzy “Hotrod” Favor Hamilton, and Bonnie D. Stroir.
Best Roller Skating Movies from the 90’s
Prayer of the Rollerboys (1990)
“Prayer of the Rollerboys” is a 1990 film set in a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles where a group of teenagers known as the Rollerboys rule the streets. The film follows the story of Griffin, a former Rollerboy who becomes disillusioned with the gang’s violent ways and joins forces with a police officer to bring them down. As they investigate the Rollerboys’ criminal activities, Griffin and the officer uncover a sinister plot that involves a new drug that is being distributed by the gang. The movie stars Corey Haim as Griffin, with supporting roles from Patricia Arquette as the police officer, and Christopher Collet as the Rollerboys’ leader. Other notable cast members include Julius Harris, Mark Pellegrino, and J.C. Quinn. “Prayer of the Rollerboys” is a gritty and intense film that explores themes of loyalty, corruption, and the search for identity in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Airborne (1993)
“Airborne” is a 1993 coming-of-age film that follows the story of Mitchell Goosen, a teenager from California who is sent to live with his aunt and uncle in Cincinnati. There he discovers the world of inline skating and becomes involved in a rivalry with the local hockey team. As he navigates the challenges of fitting in and finding his place in a new environment, Mitchell learns important lessons about friendship, perseverance, and following one’s dreams. The movie stars Shane McDermott as Mitchell, with supporting roles from Seth Green as his best friend, Brittney Powell as his love interest, and Chris Conrad as the leader of the hockey team. Other notable cast members include Edie McClurg, Jack Black, and Patrick O’Brien Demsey. “Airborne” is a fun and energetic film that celebrates the spirit of adventure and the thrill of sports, and features impressive inline skating sequences set against the backdrop of a vibrant and diverse city.
Brink! (1998)
“Brink” is a 1998 Disney Channel Original Movie that tells the story of a young inline skater named Andy “Brink” Brinker who loves to skate with his friends on the streets of Los Angeles. When his family falls on hard times, Brink decides to join a sponsored inline skating team to earn some extra money, but soon realizes that the team’s focus on winning at all costs goes against his own values of friendship and fun. As he struggles to balance his loyalty to his friends with his desire to succeed, Brink must confront his own identity and figure out what truly matters to him. The movie stars Erik von Detten as Brink, with supporting roles from Sam Horrigan as his rival Val, Christina Vidal as his love interest Gabriella, and Robin Riker and Geoffrey Blake as his parents. “Brink” is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that celebrates the spirit of individuality and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Best Roller Skating Movies from the 80’s
Xanadu (1980)
“Xanadu” is a 1980 film that tells the story of a struggling artist named Sonny who is inspired by the beautiful muse Kira to open a roller disco with a wealthy businessman. As they work together to bring their dreams to life, Sonny and Kira fall in love, but their happiness is threatened by the jealousy of a former lover and the challenges of their ambitious project. The movie features an iconic soundtrack by Electric Light Orchestra and Olivia Newton-John, with hits like “Magic” and “Xanadu.” The film stars Olivia Newton-John as Kira, Gene Kelly as Danny McGuire, and Michael Beck as Sonny. Other notable cast members include James Sloyan, Dimitra Arliss, and Katie Hanley. “Xanadu” is a vibrant and colorful celebration of music, dance, and love, with plenty of glitter, neon, and roller skating to transport audiences to a fantastical world of disco dreams.
Solar Babies (1986)
“Solarbabies” is a 1986 American science fiction film directed by Alan Johnson and starring Richard Jordan, Jami Gertz, Jason Patric, Lukas Haas, James Le Gros, and Charles Durning. Set in a post-apocalyptic future where water is scarce, the story revolves around a group of young orphans who call themselves the “Solarbabies.” They discover a mysterious orb that possesses extraordinary powers, including the ability to produce water. As they try to protect the orb from the evil, water-controlling regime known as the “E-Protectorate,” the Solarbabies embark on a thrilling adventure to save their world. The film combines elements of action, adventure, and coming-of-age themes, while exploring environmental issues and the value of friendship. The main actors in “Solarbabies” are Richard Jordan, Jami Gertz, Jason Patric, Lukas Haas, James Le Gros, and Charles Durning.
Rollerblade (1986)
“Rollerblade” is a 1986 film set in a dystopian future where society has been overtaken by a fascist regime known as the Corporation. The film follows a group of rebels known as the Rollerboys, who use rollerblades as their primary mode of transportation and as weapons to fight against the Corporation’s oppression. When a young girl named Casey joins the Rollerboys and becomes involved in their dangerous mission, she must use her skating skills to help bring down the corrupt government. The movie stars Suzanne Solari as Casey, with supporting roles from Christopher Plummer as the villainous Dr. Sado, and Kathleen Kinmont as the tough Rollerboy leader. Other notable cast members include Steve McDonald, Gary Miller, and Shaun Michelle. “Rollerblade” is a cult classic that combines science fiction, action, and rollerblading in a unique and thrilling way, creating a subversive and exciting vision of the future.
Best Roller Skating Movies from the 70’s
Unholy Rollers (1972)
“Unholy Rollers” is a 1972 American exploitation film directed by Vernon Zimmerman and starring Claudia Jennings, Louis Quinn, Betty Anne Rees, and Roberta Collins. The film follows the story of Karen Walker (played by Jennings), a young woman who quits her job at a cannery to join a roller derby team, quickly rising to stardom. However, her newfound fame leads her down a path of egoism and ruthlessness, as she navigates the brutal world of competitive roller derby and the cutthroat rivalries that emerge. The film is a gritty depiction of the 1970s roller derby scene, examining themes of ambition, fame, and the consequences of unbridled success. Key actors in “Unholy Rollers” include Claudia Jennings, Louis Quinn, Betty Anne Rees, Roberta Collins, Alan Vint, and Jay Varela.
Kansas City Bomber (1972)
“Kansas City Bomber” is a 1972 film that follows the story of K.C. Carr, a roller derby skater who becomes embroiled in a complex web of personal and professional conflicts as she navigates the brutal and competitive world of roller derby. As she rises to fame and fortune, she must contend with jealous teammates, demanding managers, and the constant pressure to perform at the highest level. Along the way, she also faces personal struggles and must confront her own limitations and desires. The movie stars Raquel Welch as K.C. Carr, with supporting roles from Kevin McCarthy as her manager, Helena Kallianiotes as her rival, and Norman Alden as her love interest. Other notable cast members include Jeanne Cooper, Jodie Foster, and Cornelia Sharpe. “Kansas City Bomber” is a captivating and entertaining film that captures the grit and drama of roller derby, and showcases Raquel Welch’s strong and dynamic performance as a fiercely independent woman who refuses to be tamed by societal expectations.
Roll Freddy Roll (1974)
In an attempt to impress his son and outdo his son’s stepfather, a man makes a firm decision to set a record for the longest time spent on roller skates and get his name inscribed in the Guinness Book of World Records. It stars Time Conway
Rollerball (1975)
“Rollerball” is a 1975 science fiction film set in a dystopian future where corporations have taken over the world and created a violent and deadly sport called Rollerball to keep the population entertained and distracted from their struggles. The movie follows the story of Jonathan E., the star player of the Houston team, as he begins to question the purpose and morality of the sport and its corporate sponsors. As he becomes a symbol of resistance and rebellion against the system, he must fight for his own survival and the future of the sport. The film stars James Caan as Jonathan E., with supporting roles from John Houseman as the head of the Energy Corporation, Maud Adams as Jonathan’s love interest, and John Beck as Jonathan’s teammate. Other notable cast members include Moses Gunn, Ralph Richardson, and Shane Rimmer. “Rollerball” is a thought-provoking and thrilling movie that explores themes of individuality, conformity, and the abuse of power, and features intense action sequences and a memorable soundtrack by composer Andre Previn. Rollerball was also remade in 2002 with Chris Klein and LL Cool J.
Roller Boogie (1979)
“Roller Boogie” is a 1979 film that follows a young couple named Terry and Bobby who fall in love while roller skating in Venice Beach. As they prepare for the upcoming roller disco competition, they face obstacles from a wealthy developer who wants to tear down their favorite skating rink. Along the way, they also navigate their own personal struggles and romantic tensions. The film stars Linda Blair as Terry and Jim Bray as Bobby, with supporting roles from Beverly Garland, Mark Goddard, and Kimberly Beck. With its funky soundtrack and high-energy roller skating sequences, “Roller Boogie” captures the disco era in all its glittery glory.
Skatetown, U.S.A. (1979)
“Skatetown USA” is a 1979 film that takes place in a California roller disco called Skatetown. The film follows the adventures of a group of young skaters as they dance and compete in various roller disco contests. The plot thickens when a greedy businessman tries to take over the rink and turn it into a shopping mall, threatening the skaters’ beloved hangout. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Scott Baio as the smooth-talking skater Ace, Patrick Swayze as the tough-guy skater, and Maureen McCormick as a roller derby queen. Other notable cast members include Ron Palillo, Flip Wilson, and Ruth Buzzi. “Skatetown USA” is a fun, lighthearted romp through the world of roller disco, with plenty of groovy tunes and dazzling skating sequences.
I hope you’ve enjoyed perusing the BEST Roller Skating Movies and TV Shows of ALL TIME! If you’re throwing a roller skating party be sure to download our FREE Printable Roller Skating Party Invitations before you leave today!