Watch Brutal Beauty: Tales of the Rose City Rollers

Brutal Beauty: Tales of the Rose City Rollers is a feature-length documentary that follows the lives of the roller derby team, the Rose City Rollers, through their 2009 season. The film is directed by Chip Mabry and is narrated by actress and former Rose City Roller, Becky Verhey. The film takes a personal and heartfelt approach to telling the story of the team and its members, and is an engaging and entertaining look at the world of roller derby.

The documentary begins by introducing the viewer to the sport of roller derby, and to the Rose City Rollers in particular. We meet the team members, some of whom are seasoned veterans of the sport, while others are relatively new. We learn about the rules of the game, the history of roller derby, and the unique culture and community that has grown around it. The film also touches on issues of gender, sexuality, and body image, as the women who play roller derby often challenge traditional notions of femininity and beauty.

From there, the film takes us through the 2009 season of the Rose City Rollers, beginning with the team's opening match against the Rat City Rollergirls. We see the team train, travel, and compete, as they strive to improve their skills and win matches. Along the way, we get to know the various members of the team, each of whom has their own reasons for playing roller derby. We hear their stories of triumph and defeat, of injuries and friendships, and of the ways in which being part of the Rose City Rollers has changed their lives.

One of the most compelling aspects of Brutal Beauty is the way in which it presents the team as a microcosm of Portland, the city where they are based. We see the ways in which the team members embody the city's values of independence, creativity, and nonconformity. We see how the team has become a beloved part of the city's cultural landscape, drawing a diverse and enthusiastic fan base to their matches. And we see how the team has given back to the community, through charity work and outreach programs designed to empower young women.

Throughout the film, the viewer is struck by the dedication and passion of the women who play roller derby. We see the sacrifices they make in order to train and compete, and the deep sense of camaraderie that has grown among the team members. We see the way in which roller derby has become not just a sport, but a way of life for these women. And we are left with a sense of awe and admiration for these amazing athletes, who have found a way to transform their love of roller skating into something truly beautiful and inspiring.

Overall, Brutal Beauty: Tales of the Rose City Rollers is a captivating and heartwarming documentary that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of roller derby. It is a film that celebrates the athleticism, creativity, and spirit of these amazing women, while also shining a light on some of the issues that affect them as athletes and as human beings. Whether you are a fan of roller derby or simply someone who loves to see people pursuing their passions, this film is not to be missed.