Rollerball

Rollerball

Year: 1975

Runtime: 125 min

Language: English

Director: Norman Jewison

ActionSci-FiSport

In a dystopian future, rollerball has evolved into a brutal, highly popular sport. Star player Jonathan finds himself increasingly troubled by the game's violent nature and the manipulative control of its creator, Petrovich. Alongside teammates Marcus and Aurora, Jonathan must navigate the intense pressure and escalating danger as Petrovich orchestrates the sport for maximum entertainment, pushing the players to their limits and threatening their survival.

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Timeline – Rollerball (1975)

Trace every key event in Rollerball (1975) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

A New Era Begins

In 2018, the world has been transformed into a peaceful existence, devoid of wars, poverty, and violence. Instead of conflict, society now indulges in Rollerball games as an outlet for their frustrations, marking a significant cultural shift.

2018
2

Houston Triumphs Over Madrid

In an exciting matchup of Rollerball, the Houston team claims victory over Madrid. Standout player Jonathan E showcases his exceptional scoring ability, relishing the celebration with teammates and corporate executives post-game.

Houston
3

Pressure to Retire

The following day, Jonathan is summoned to meet Mr. Bartholomew, who pressures him to retire from the Rollerball league. Resistant to this command, Jonathan’s sense of individuality begins to clash with corporate expectations.

4

Journey to the Secluded Ranch

Accompanied by a young woman assigned by the Energy Corporation and his friend Clete, Jonathan travels by helicopter to his ranch in East Texas. Upon arrival, he discovers that the young woman has spontaneously left for Indianapolis, leaving him alone.

East Texas
5

Search for Information

In a quest to uncover more about the Energy Corporation, Jonathan visits a library in downtown Houston. Unfortunately, he learns the books he seeks are classified, highlighting the corporation's secrecy and control over information.

Houston
6

Training under New Rules

Back at the ranch, another young woman named Daphne is sent by the corporation. During training, the team is informed of new rules that eliminate penalties, a direct result of Jonathan’s refusal to retire and the ensuing chaotic atmosphere.

Jonathan's ranch
7

Orchestrated Retirement Interview

During a televised interview designed to announce his retirement, Jonathan realizes that Bartholomew has manipulated the entire production. This effort to further pressure him showcases the corporation’s stringent control over his life.

8

Facing the Tokyo Team

While traveling to Tokyo for a crucial matchup, the Rollerball team confronts ferocious competition. The encounter proves to be violent, leaving one of their teammates, Moonpie, in critical condition, raising the stakes for Jonathan.

Tokyo
9

Moral Dilemma

In the aftermath of Moonpie's injury, a Japanese doctor appeals to Jonathan to allow life support to be turned off. However, Jonathan's refusal to give up on his teammate illustrates his commitment and compassion amidst the ruthless nature of the sport.

Tokyo
10

Seeking Answers in Geneva

Jonathan's journey leads him to Geneva, Switzerland, in search of insights into corporate warfare. Unfortunately, his endeavors there yield little, demonstrating the complexities of the corporate power struggle he is entwined with.

Geneva, Switzerland
11

Confrontation with Ex-Wife

Jonathan receives an unexpected visit from his ex-wife Ella at his ranch. She tries to persuade him that the Energy Corporation had valid reasons for its actions, yet Jonathan's decision to erase their shared past symbolizes his resolve to oppose the corporation.

Jonathan's ranch
12

The Final Match in New York

As the Rollerball team competes in New York City, the oppressive new rules lead to chaos as players are critically injured or killed. In the midst of this bloodshed, Jonathan scores repeatedly, receiving overwhelming support from the crowd.

New York City
13

Culmination of Conflict

Amid the escalating violence, Jonathan's performance enrages Bartholomew, who seeks to eliminate him further. As tensions rise, the chaotic scenes focus around Jonathan, just before reaching a dramatic conclusion.

14

Endless Skating

In the film's final moments, Jonathan is seen skating endlessly, symbolizing his perseverance against the corporate powers. The frame freezes just as the credits roll, leaving the audience captivated and on edge.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 14:28

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Rollerball Summary

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Rollerball Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Rollerball

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Rollerball

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