Roller Boogie (1979)

Roller Boogie Poster

Teen lovers Bobby and Terry band together with other roller skaters to try and prevent a powerful mobster taking over the land their favourite skating rink sits on, and compete in the Boogie Contest.

Film Overview
Roller Boogie is a 1979 American romantic musical drama film produced by Irwin Yablans, directed by Mark L. Lester, with David Winters in charge of the choreography. The film primarily features Linda Blair, James Van Patten, and Kim Carnes. Roller Boogie is a classic coming-of-age film infused with a glittering disco fond memories, utilizing the roller-skating craze that was popular in the late 1970s.

Plot Summary
The story unfolds with Blair playing a rich classical musician named Terry Barkley. Terry is depicted as a prodigious flautist studying at the distinguished Juilliard School. Regardless of her upscale and cultured background, Terry is keen to throw herself into the dynamic and gaudy world of rollerskating. She stumbles upon Bobby James (played by James Van Patten), a regional roller skater, and two-time Roller Disco champ. Despite their distinct backgrounds, they quickly form an unique bond over their shared love for roller skating.

The plot thickens as Bobby teaches Terry the ins and-outs of roller-disco. In return, Terry, with her pyrotechnical school smarts, makes sure Bobby passes his exams to get into college. An unforeseen turn of occasions sets the young couple on a mission to save their precious roller rink 'Jammers' from being changed into a profitable shopping center by corrupt designers.

Key Themes and Symbolism
The film Roller Boogie artistically paints the societal contrast between the opulence of Beverly Hills and the easygoing beach way of life. While it highlights the class difference, a common thread of a youthful zest for life connects the characters throughout social borders. The movie is likewise a photo reflection of the 1970s roller-disco craze and a vivid portrayal of Los Angeles' beach culture.

Efficiency and Reception
Roller Boogie is characterized by its traditional 70's soundtrack-- offering hits from significant bands of the time, such as Earth Wind and Fire, and The Village People. The music sets a perfect enhance to the roller-disco theory, where skating and dance are seamlessly merged together. The movie included a roller-dance sequence choreographed by David Winters, who had previously choreographed for The Beatles and Elvis Presley.

Upon its release, Roller Boogie got combined reactions. The movie didn't have a significant impact critically, but it managed to achieve a cult-status due to its vibrant display of a particular cultural age.

Concluding Thoughts
While not differentiated for its deep narrative, Roller Boogie serves an authentic capsule of the late 70s roller-skating scene. The movie is a vivid throwback to a time marked by roller-boogie on the beaches intertwined with disco beats. The characters and their interaction, the music, and the splendid choreography will constantly make Roller Boogie a worthwhile expect the classic roller-skating and disco lovers. The 1979 film Roller Boogie stands as a vibrant piece of pop culture - providing a window into a remarkable period filled with vibrant enjoyment, exuberant music, and sprightly skate-dance relocations.

Top Cast

  • Linda Blair (small)
    Linda Blair
    Terry Barkley
  • Jim Bray (small)
    Jim Bray
    Bobby James
  • Beverly Garland (small)
    Beverly Garland
    Lillian Barkley
  • Roger Perry (small)
    Roger Perry
    Roger Barkley
  • James Van Patten (small)
    James Van Patten
    Hoppy
  • Kimberly Beck (small)
    Kimberly Beck
    Lana
  • Stoney Jackson (small)
    Stoney Jackson
    Phones
  • Albert Insinnia (small)
    Albert Insinnia
    Gordo
  • Sean McClory (small)
    Sean McClory
    Jammer Delany
  • Mark Goddard (small)
    Mark Goddard
    Thatcher
  • M.G. Kelly
    D.J.