james caan from
“Rollerball” is a fascinating sci-fi film concerning an incredibly violent futuristic sport called Rollerball, in which players try to score by hurling a large metal ball into a hole, some players riding on motorcycles and others on roller skates. The futuristic cinematography is quite impressive and the story is very thought-provoking. James Caan plays the role of Jonathan E, the rollerball champion of the world whom the corporations want out because he’s too good and John Houseman plays his executive boss who tries to make him quit.
Rollerball takes place sometime in the future, after large corporations have taken over the world. There is no longer any war or poverty, but neither is their individual freedom or free access to information, as the corporations now control everything, including knowledge. Jonathan E loves rollerball and isn’t about to quit without first knowing why he’s being asked to do so. He also longs to be reunited with his wife Ella, the only woman he’s ever loved, whom the corporations have taken away from him.
In order to discourage him from continuing to play, the corporations decide to change the rules, making the game more violent. In Tokyo, they play with no penalties and limited substitutions. Several players get killed and Jonathan’s friend Moon Pie becomes a vegetable as a result of a nasty concussion.
The final game of the season is played in New York. The rules are changed to no penalties, no substitutions, and no time limits, meaning the game will continue until everyone except one player remains. Jonathan manages to survive and score the victory goal. Once he does, the audience shouts out his name repeatedly.
Rollerball – Dave’s Top Movies
James Caan from Dragons’ Den on Saturday Morning Kitchen
