Roller Dreams

Roller Dreams is a captivating 2017 documentary that explores Venice Beach's roller-dancing subculture that thrived during the 1980s. Directed by Kate Hickey, the film features numerous individuals who played integral roles in making Venice Beach the prominent hub of roller dancing that it was during its heyday. In the documentary, the audience gets to meet and understand several prominent figures in this subculture, including Mad, Sara Messenger, and Terrell Ferguson, among others.

Venice Beach, California, is famously known for its sun-kissed beaches, gleaming blue skies, and bustling boardwalks. But during the 1980s, it was also widely recognized for its roller-dancing subculture, which became an iconic and vibrant fixture of Venice Beach. This subculture was brimming with energy, creativity, and diversity, serving as a safe haven for many marginalized communities, particularly African Americans. In this unique cultural setting, individuals became local stars and dance pioneers and attracted a worldwide audience with their mesmerizing moves and unbounded spirit.

In Roller Dreams, Hickey delves deep into the themes of racial prejudice, gentrification, and the commercial exploitation of creativity. This approach paints a comprehensive picture of the tumultuous landscape of LA in the 80s and helps viewers comprehend the socio-political and economic factors that played a role in shaping this subculture.

Mad, a well-known figure in Roller Dreams, played a pivotal role in creating this unique brand of street dance that eventually won its place in pop culture history. His charisma and extraordinary dance skills allowed him to lure audiences from all walks of life. Even though he was a significant force behind the popularity and the international recognition of roller dancing, the documentary depicts the bitter irony of how he remains largely unacknowledged for his contributions.

Sara Messenger, another key figure in Roller Dreams, adds substance and depth to the narrative. With her insights and shared experiences, audiences are offered a closer look into the roller-dancing community. As one of the few females in this predominantly male environment, her stories bring a female perspective and a striking dynamic. She faces struggles with strength and conviction, providing an enlightening view on how intersectionality existed within the culture.

Terrell Ferguson, famed for his dance moves and talent, contributes another layer of depth to this narrative. He represents the new wave of dancers who found solace, acceptance, and self-expression in roller dancing despite external struggles. His journey mirrors the experiences of many other young black men of the era, offering a poignant commentary on the cultural and socio-political climate of those times.

Roller Dreams also delves into the repercussions of political and economic shifts in the 1980s and 1990s, both on this tight-knit community and the larger city. The film expertly navigates through the painful narrative of segregation and gentrification that swept across Venice Beach and led to the unfortunate demise of this beloved subculture.

Throughout the film, a beautiful juxtaposition is set up between the roller dancers’ exhilarating performances and their personal struggles. It explores how these talented individuals managed to carve out a space for joy and creativity in the midst of economic and social hardships.

One of the film's most engaging aspects is its archival footage, which vividly transports viewers back to that era. It showcases the roller-dancers in their full glory, performing miraculous feats on the sun-drenched Venice Beach boardwalk. Combined with a riveting soundtrack full of hip-hop and funk hits of the time, it makes for an immersive viewing experience that briefly revives the golden era of roller-dancing.

But Roller Dreams is much more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It serves as a poignant social commentary on the far-reaching impacts of urban development, revealing how unchecked gentrification and commercialization can erase local cultures and communities.

In short, Roller Dreams is a tribute to an era of Virginia Beach history that many have forgotten. Far from just focusing only on the music, moves, and roller-dancing culture, it effortlessly ties in bigger societal issues, resulting in a multi-faceted film that attracts a wide range of viewers. This documentary is a powerful, enlightening, and engaging watch—a roller dance through music, art, politics, and social change.