Fans, Skaters, Hopefuls, and Random Passersby, we ran across some videos that are available to stream on Netflix, and thought you all might want a little more insight into Roller Derby. We here at Bangor Roller Derby quickly learned that while everyone has heard of Roller Derby, not everyone has a clear idea of what it is, especially if you look at what it is today. Plus, while some may have seen certain films, like Whip It, there’s a big difference between the banked-track version, and the flat-track Derby (which is us).
The following titles are available to stream now, and while the production values are not all the best you’ll ever run into, they’re pretty cool, and will give you a great introduction to the sport.
Brutal Beauty: Tales of the Rose City Rollers
High-spirited, trash-talking and collision-packed, the American sport of roller derby — specifically, roller derby played by nubile and fearless female warriors — is enjoying a popular renaissance that’s captured in this entertaining documentary. In Portland, Ore., the Rose City Rollers operate a multiteam league of lady skaters, and the film crew spent more than year with the teams and their managers, yielding an intimate portrait of rink life.
Blood on the Flat Track: The Rise of the Rat City Roller Girls
Tracing the rise of the Rat City Roller Girls — Seattle’s fledgling women’s roller derby league — this fast-paced documentary profiles the group’s best athletes, bitter rivalries, intense matches and amazing growth. Focusing on the new league’s first two seasons, this inside look at the sport’s resurgence showcases such colorful skaters as Burnett Down, Kitty Kamikaze, Miss Fortune, Shovey Chase and Dirty Little Secret.
Indie filmmaker Bob Ray delivers a high-octane documentary that charts the revival of modern-day roller derby, beginning with the feisty group of women from Austin, Texas, who started it all back in 2001. The film’s soundtrack features original music by …And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead, Explosions in the Sky, Mogwai, Grupo Fantasma, RPG, Nashville Pussy, Alice Donut, the Crack Pipes, U.S.S. Friendship and more.
Where can I sign up?