Rollerball
Performance & Direction: Rollerball Review
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Rollerball (2002) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 3.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Rollerball features a noteworthy lineup led by Chris Klein . Supported by the likes of LL Cool J and Rebecca Romijn , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Rollerball
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2002, Rollerball is a Action, Science Fiction, Thriller film directed by John McTiernan. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Chris Klein.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, John McTiernan establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. In this fast action-packed thriller, Jonathan, Marcus, and Aurora compete in a dangerous, fierce sport called Rollerball. Although, Johnathan and Marcus try to quit, cruel and vindictive promoter Alexi Petrovich encourages them to still participate. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Chris Klein, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Rollerball
Ending Breakdown: Directed by John McTiernan, Rollerball attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Chris Klein, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Rollerball reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Rollerball?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Rollerball
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $70.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $25.9M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Rollerball Budget
The estimated production budget for Rollerball is $70.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Rollerball
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Rollerball Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
MGM+ Amazon Channel
MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel
MGM Plus🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeRollerball Parents Guide & Age Rating
2002 AdvisoryWondering about Rollerball age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Rollerball is 98 minutes (1h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 3.9/10, and global performance metrics, Rollerball is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 2002 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rollerball worth watching?
Rollerball is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 3.9/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Rollerball parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Rollerball identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Rollerball?
The total duration of Rollerball is 98 minutes, which is approximately 1h 38m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Rollerball
How Rollerball Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Rollerball
McTiernen takes a nearly Experimental Filmmaking approach to this _Rollerball_ remake. I mean, it totally doesn't work, but at least it's weird-dumb instead of regular-dumb. Weird-dumb enough to feature a live performance by Slipknot as a lynchpin of the movie. _Final rating:★★½ - Had a lot that appealed to me, didn’t quite work as a whole._
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
