So, Monday night (Oct.5th) kicked off our Kino4 film club. I am not in any way, shape or form a film buff, but I really enjoyed the evening. (Guest) Johnny Hardstaff introduced Rollerball by saying a few words on the film and why he had chosen it. He presented it as a film that is important to us, as people interested in visual communication. It is a film about media as a weapon, a corporate world that practices the ethics of manipulation and subversive agendas. I was surprised at how a film from 1975 is still as relevant today. It is certainly by no means outdated. The idea of sports stars as Gods is probably something even more specific to today than when the film was made.
The plot sees The Energy Corporation attempt to force retirement upon Veteran star Johnny E. The fact that he has become the singular and most recognisable talent within the game opposes the aim - which is to show the futility of individual effort. His refusal to quit means the game becomes senselessly violent. He carries on fighting against the corporations until the very end, where he becomes the last man standing. The film ends with the chant of his name as it moves into a still image of the star, like the start - designed to have impact upon the viewer. Can't wait for the next film!
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