Whip It! Trailer
This whole "there's gonna be a movie" thing is starting to get pretty real:
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Whip It! trailer
Looks like fun! Wonder what you roller girls think.
I'm No Roller Girl
But I do have an opinion.
Things I liked: Karmann Ghias, seeing Detroit's Black Eyed Skeez and Bilbo T Baggins, and a movie about roller derby.
Things I didn't like: banked track, fighting/rasslin' moves.
What I really didn't like: using the "beauty pageant faux pas" as a narrative device for showing how Bliss Whatshername is so "out of place" in the "normal world." While I'm sure there's more to it than that, it makes me worry that we're going to see additional..."paint by numbers" mechanisms to put us into Bliss' world.
Alas, at the end of the day, I remind myself of two things.
1) I'll see it anyway.
2) For the love of Joe Pesci, it's just a movie. No need to be so hypercritical.
The Beauty Peagant
The Beauty Peagant as a narrative device is fine, although considering it's in Texas, it has way too many brunettes in there. *zing*
Really, though, this movie is not about Roller Derby, it's using Roller Derby as a backdrop for its story.
For every person who complains about the punching or elbows, I point out they also included a nice solid *legal* check, a scene with crutches in it, the "hurling on the track" comment, and many other things which will represent our modern derby. The thing I like the most is that it essentially is promoting Roller Derby as a positive force on someone's life and I think that's one of the *best* things we can ask for.
Exactly
it essentially is promoting Roller Derby as a positive force on someone's life and I think that's one of the *best* things we can ask for.
Very good point, and possibly the most compelling reason for me to see it.
How about peeing a little
How about peeing a little when you hit the right spot on your hip/kidney? That happens way more in our league than puking on the track! hehehehe, just kidding! well, kind of...
www.phillyrollergirls.com
You see...
This is why you always go and hit the restroom before you go on the track for a bout. Even if you don't feel like you have to pee... go pee anyway! :)
Oops
In response to that phenomenon, I've coined the term "traccident."
There's a saying...
"If you didn't pee a little when you hit her, you didn't hit her hard enough"
That made me laugh!
I know I'm not the only girl to have swallowed her own puke and keep on skating during a jam :) For me is was an un-airconditioned August bout our first season. Never peed - I always heard jammers say that, though - that they peed a little.
hahaha.yes
in omaha, we refer to this as the 'dime size' phenomenon.
srsly.
2) For the love of Joe Pesci, it's just a movie. No need to be so hypercritical.
CAN I GETTA AMEN!?
We all will benefit from this just like we did Rollergirls. No complaints here. Besides, seems like it'll be awesome anyway.
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Whip It Extra you have the
Whip It Extra you have the subtlety of a slogan written on a rollergirl's panties.
My feedback to return to your focus group is that it looks about a thousand times better than I expected it to be. None of us would be completely satisfied unless it were a real unscripted game with only real players, and even then we'd nitpick something, but it's a movie and really that wouldn't make any sense. Like, what do we expect them to do, film Nationals and then write a script around it backwards? Besides, there's already like 10 documentaries on various leagues. I'm personally satisfied with the mix of real derbygirls with actresses I like. God job on that.
All of us are going to see it no matter what, but this made me think I actually might like it too. it looks cute.
Huge mistake in the credits!
It's based on the novel "Derby Girl" by Shauna Cross, Not "Whip It!" Somebody better tell 'em!
Maybe
But I'll bet you a dollar that the novel is re-published with the name Whip It! this fall.
Same book- Different title?!?
Well, you're the 3rd person to tell me this, so it must be true. I must be going senile not to have figured that out- Duh!
Here's why...
Well, you're the 3rd person to tell me this, so it must be true. I must be going senile not to have figured that out- Duh!
If they still call it "Derby Girl," maybe it can get another pressing and sell a few more copies.
If they retitle it "Whip It!" and slap Ellen and Drew's pictures on the cover, they can sell a load more copies and maybe get it into places like Kmart/Wally World. Just sayin'...
I recall noticing that it was going to be released under that title, I think in September? Amazon says Sept. 1st. They currently show it with a "Derby Girl" cover, which means the new cover art hasn't been provided to Amazon yet.
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
Here's why...
Yeah, same thing at the Borders website. I ordered an original hardcover because I was told it may increase in value after they re-title it for the movie. I also noticed the new version will be in Paperback; much cheaper; half the price of the original; bigger market; clever marketing. Thanx for the info!
Exciting, but get ready for lots of fan questions
The movie looks really fun, and I think it will help generate excitement for all leagues, especially upcoming tournaments!!!
But we probably all need to get ready for questions from fans like "She got elbowed in the face! Aren't your league's rules different?" "How many banked track leagues exist, why do you skate flat track, how are those different than "vintage" roller derby" etc etc
======
Hot Legs Hooligan (retired)
Atlanta Rollergirls
Coach
The coach cracks me up at the end of the preview... gets me laughing every single time. Maybe he'll make up for the fruit boots. :P
Too many punches
I saw more punches thrown in the bout scenes in the trailer than I've seen in a whole regular season of derby. While I haven't seen the whole film and it probably attempts to represent derby well overall, it looks like they're pandering a bit to stereotypical attitudes about derby. Will the newbies coming to the bouts ask when the fights are gonna start? Or why did that skater go to the box for elbowing that other skater?
I was thinking the same
I was thinking the same thing... I'm sure it won't take much to set people straight, but I feel like derby has to be explained so much already. *sigh* Still looks like a fun movie.
I think you're getting ahead
I think you're getting ahead of yourself, assuming both those things are acceptable in the movie.
Considering...
Considering that they show Drew's character being hauled off by referees right after throwing the punch, I'm willing to bet that they're showing it as being unacceptable.
It is, however, a dramatic highlight point in the movie, thus it's being shown in the trailer.
A reminder
It wasn't that long ago that DIY derby had fights a-plenty. Some leagues still have fights in their home games. So it's not soooooooooooooooo unrealistic that a punch or five is thrown in this movie. A movie that isn't a documentary about derby, btw.
TARA ARMOV #51
LA Derby Dolls
Interleague Task Force
Training Team Co-Head
"That Which Does Not Kill You Makes For A Good Story"
number 2
i feel like i've actually chanted "we're number two before" haha
ditto!
i feel like i've actually chanted "we're number two before" haha
at the end of last season "we're number two!" was definitely chanted by many WCR fans (and skaters) :o)
it just doesn't matter
Our team chanted "It just doesn't matter" a la meatballs after our gotham game.
Holly Gohardly
Charm City Roller Girls
Cleveland Steamers
I believe they chant it at every game....
you're all numbah one in my
you're all numbah one in my book.
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Of course you have!
This is why Montreal is my favorite derby league EVER. :)
Looks like they actually
Looks like they actually replicated The Doll Factory. I know they borrowed the mirror-skate. That Red Dirt Rebellion track looks pretty cool. Also looks like some of the skaters are wearing their helmets the normal way, some not.
Seeing Iron Maiven and Krissy Krash essentially playing characters just like themselves (but quieter) on the movie representation of the team they actually play on is kind of amusing. Their real team was actually kind of "Bad News Bears"-ish until 2008, too.
Nice product placement!
Riedell even gets their logo prominently featured in the trailer. Sweet deal!
-----
Production Manager, Announcer, Pit Crew
Western Jersey Outlaws/Morristown Madams
Was that a freaking STRYPER
Was that a freaking STRYPER tee shirt she was wearing?!! Oh...wow. Ellen page is cool even in a freaking STRYPER tee. And thats not easy.
http://bikerdavesrollerderby.blogspot.com/
Read the Book!
Was that a freaking STRYPER tee shirt she was wearing?!! Oh...wow. Ellen page is cool even in a freaking STRYPER tee. And thats not easy.
http://bikerdavesrollerderby.blogspot.com/
The Stryper shirt is prominently featured in the original book. I'm wondering where they got the shirt for the movie...from Maggie Mayhem's closet?!
Also, for the beauty pageant comments earlier...that's in the book as well.
TARA ARMOV #51
LA Derby Dolls
Interleague Task Force
Training Team Co-Head
"That Which Does Not Kill You Makes For A Good Story"
that was my favorite thing about the book
I actually cheered out loud when I realized the Stryper tee made it into the movie. I was afraid it was gonna be changed into, I dunno, a Fall Out Boy hoodie or something.
Ana Bollocks
Gotham Girls Roller Derby
1080p trailer
Super duper high resolution.
You'll need QuickTime Player to watch it. It's very pretty.
Giggles
Okay, so I am obsessively reading comments on film geek blogs about the trailer, doing a little research, and chatting the best ones over to Hurt in the next room. He insists I post up this one, in a thread about the trailer on www.pajiba.com
It's pretty LOL funny...
"Dear Roller Derby Movie,
I regret to inform you that, regardless how many pictures you throw in my general direction featuring the adorably hippy-dippy and oft covered-in-glitter-and-flowers Drew Barrymore and the delightfully insane Juliette Lewis decked out in what is essentially the dream wardrobe of an intoxicated 11-year-old, it is still virtually impossible for me to muster any interest in half-heartedly adding you to position #496 in my Netflix queue, let alone actually contemplate spending real live money on you in a theatre. First of all, you suffer from an unfortunate but persistent subconscious association with Prayer of the Rollerboys, and your Devo title just gives me waking nightmares of Corey Haim skatin' for freedom and justice in one of those red Lego hats, and that really does you no favours. Secondly, your butchered Girl Scout uniforms are twee and all, and maybe you even have a cute scene involving Drew Barrymore attacking them with scissors and glitter glue, but there is just no way that could be any cuter than Shelley Long gussying up her uniform in Troop Beverly Hills, and I have that shit on VHS in a box some place and I can watch it anytime I want. Besides, it's got Jenny Lewis, a very young Carla Gugino as a pseudo bitch and Tori Spelling playing a Red Feather. I just don't think you've got what it takes to compete with that. It even has Stephanie Beacham! Do you have anybody from "Dynasty"? I didn't think so.
Regards,
Sarina
P.S. If your ass ugly makeup sparks any trends, I will set Ellen Page on fire."
shopping list
We are totally buying Prayer of the Rollerboys for the Whip It! prefunc.
awesome
"In the 21st Century, it's gonna take one man and his blades to save the world from another man...and HIS blades."
Bette Noir
Derby Expatriate
London Rollergirls
Then you should also pick up
Then you should also pick up Solarbabies http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091981/ Because THAT is an awful movie.
Motorball added feature
Since we're digging, why not toss in the 3 minute CGI feature from the Gunnm: Complete Edition showcasing Battle Angel Alita's motorball skills?
;)
SOLARBABIES!!!! Bodai!!! You
SOLARBABIES!!!!
Bodai!!!
You can't beat roller skates with headlights...come on! Totally suhhhhweet!
Someone admits that they
Someone admits that they have a Troop Beverly Hills VHS tape....NOW that is funny....
super duper high resolution
The link didn't work for me, & I have Quick Time player.
Roller babies commercial
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_UxhPbMyy8
I think this would be a hoot of a lead-in if they showed it right before the movie!
barf
barf
Holly Gohardly
Charm City Roller Girls
ceiling baby on skates.
ceiling baby on skates. nooooooooooooo :(
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Howcum there is a real Babe
Howcum there is a real Babe Ruthless and a fake Babe Ruthless and neither of the Babe Ruthlesses wear number 3?
hmmm
My guess is ... so that roller derby never ever has to suffer from a "curse of the bambina."
;)
Excited!
I for one, can't wait for this movie to come out, I must have watched the trailer 100 times. I love everything derby, and I read the book last summer, its a good story.
As far as the questions we may get from fans, it's a great way for us to promote our bouts. Our reply to any questions they might have can be "come to our next bout"!
Lulu Lockjaw #21
Santa Cruz Derby Girls
bettiedevil21@yahoo.com
Totally Excited :)
I have to admit that the first time I watched the preview I was little thrown off by the choreographed clothes-lining and punching . . . but it's a movie with derby and like Lulu said, I love everything derby.
I think the film has a great cast and I cannot wait till opening night . . .
Raven Von Kaos #76
Santa Cruz Derby Girls
8 Seconds or 1 minute
I am sure we all feel the exact same all the professional bull riders felt the moment Luke Perry mounted a bull in 8 Seconds ... big groan of disgust
anyway, I felt plenty of elbows last month in Texas, they're legal...right?
Sara Problem
I've always been impressed with the clever nicknames you ladies give yourselves, but Sara Problem is So good, it's had me laughing the last half-hour! Awesome! :)
Official site up.
Lookie:
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/whipit/
-----
Production Manager, Announcer, Pit Crew
Western Jersey Outlaws/Morristown Madams
uh oh
and there's a link to this page on it......
Hah!
There's tons of links to roller derby videos on there, both flat track and banked track. I think any new fan going to explore the site will quickly discover how exciting modern roller derby is. :D
Now now...
They used "Rapper's Delight." The name "WundaMike" got referenced in it. And one of the kids did a jump that could've been Mo/Quadzilla at a tournament.
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
feministing...
has a post about this trailer with a growing commentary.
Wherein
my lovely and clever wife shuts the thread up :)
Aw. Thanks, Honey.
You're super and I'm feeling all lovified.
Feministing... Wow...
Who knew feminists could be so condescending toward other women? Geez... I should know better than to let comments piss me off, but some of those women were clueless and rude.
Are you kidding?!? Many self
Are you kidding?!? Many self proclaimed "feminists" are the biggest misogynists there are. Who needs men to hate women when we can do it better ourselves? Am I right, ladies?
vomit.
Sadly...
I mean, I knew women can be horrible, but daaaaamn. I'd just love for some of those women to strap on skates and pads. Not so I can feel justified in knocking them on their asses, but because skating is awesome.
And they'd probably knock themselves down. (Which would be fun to watch.)
feminist argument?
not having been to the site, but having been to college and read all kindsa feminist shit, lemme guess the argument.
premise 1: these girls are dressing in such a way that is provocative to men.
premimise 2: porno is provocative to men.
conclusion 1: TRAITORS! ONLY TRAITORS HAVE SEX WITH MEN!!!
conclusion 2: these girls are sluts and this is porno therefore they should cover up.
This argument is just as unconvincing coming from a woman as it is coming from anyone else. yes, lets hide our obscene feminie bodies in baggy clothes or better yet, lets play roller derby in burkas! that is so forwad-thinking.
here's another try.
premise 1: roller derby is not a sport
premise 2: only sports that are played by men are real sports.
Conclusion 1: women should play a sport that was invented by men, not invented by women, if they want to be taken seriously.
conclusion 2: i use feminism to excuse my internalized misogyny and self loathing. god i hate myself. but i hate other women more!
ummm i dunno. I can do this shit all night. how about we just agree to split up the territory. they can continue to be useless disparaging sourpusses and we can continue to monopolize the fun, sexy and empowered athlete sector? sounds like a deal to me!
Re: feminist argument?
"how about we just agree to split up the territory. they can continue to be useless disparaging sourpusses and we can continue to monopolize the fun, sexy and empowered athlete sector? sounds like a deal to me!"
Sounds good to me! And, of course, the "pornification" of the sport was the sticking point. However, you missed the "perpetuates violence against women" part. That was interesting.
I guess I'm lucky enough to know some pretty amazing feminists...
ummmm, small correction
Though the roller girl movement and form of roller derby was modified by women, its not exactly a secret that it was created by men (Leo Seltzer, Damon Runyan, Billy Bogash and some others). Though its modifications for many years came from both men and women (particularly Walt Harris, Gerry Murray, Annis Jensen and others).
Not that in the overall scheme of things it matters much, but I suppose I am a stickler for accurate history. A trait I found missing in many a feminist study as I recall (Dworkin, especially)
Created by men, but female dominated...
I think the point is that the sport has been mostly considered a female sport, not that it was created by women. Most other sports are male-dominated, meaning the players are nearly all men.
Is it weird that feministing
Is it weird that feministing is running an ad for Reef's Best Butt contest? That and a 2 day flat abs ad were the first things that popped up. I couldn't find the post about the trailer though.
DG
RMRG Barnacle
Adblock Plus is your friend...
I use it so I never noticed the sexist ads. Not surprising, though.
If you want to hate people, here's the link to the post: http://www.feministing.com/archives/016742.html
oh my
yr right. that took me back to terrible feminist discussions in college. oh well, I guess I'll just skip off to having fun in my pornified fishnets and women (or is it womyn?) hating body checks!
PS good luck on yr tryouts!!!
Glad I could help.
yr right. that took me back to terrible feminist discussions in college. oh well, I guess I'll just skip off to having fun in my pornified fishnets and women (or is it womyn?) hating body checks!
PS good luck on yr tryouts!!!
Yeah, I know better than to read the comments once they get that stupid, but I do it anyway.
Thanks!!
Interesting read.
yr right. that took me back to terrible feminist discussions in college. oh well, I guess I'll just skip off to having fun in my pornified fishnets and women (or is it womyn?) hating body checks!
PS good luck on yr tryouts!!!
Yeah, I know better than to read the comments once they get that stupid, but I do it anyway.
Thanks!!
The vast bulk of the stupidity was from a single source, who posted again and again and again. Her hating it so passionately without much logic behind her positions probably helped you guys (and the film) win over the rest of the audience on the site.
She kind of folded after about the bazillionth rebuttal. I suspect she was surprised that not many second-wavers were leaping to her defense.
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
equipment
i notice how clean and new alot of their equipment looks, that and you can't smell them from here, personally my stuff reeks so bad i'm sure you could smell it over the computer, maybe thats just a personal problem....
Antidote 100cc
Philly Roller Girls
...THAT's where that's coming from...
;)
Oderama
Scratch-and-Sniff cards for the 'real' experience
Totally
We totally did after playing your Montreal Sexpos. haha
That line made me laugh because it's TRUE. Only in derby can number 2 sometimes feel only a hair less good as number 1.
Lippy Wrongstockings
Tri-City Roller Girls
I was an extra in the film
I had the grand privilege of being an extra on set for this film (thus my profile pic where I'm circled in the trailer) and I although I can't say anything on how authentic it is or not since I have no prior experience of seeing an actual match, I can say a few things about my experience.
Drew is an amazing director. She was very, very professional and even though she always has the magical glamor to her, she was quite stern and rally-leading when she needed to be.
Besides the names in the film, there are many actual roller girls involved including at least one entire team of which I can't discuss further because I'm under a confidentiality contract until the film's release.
It was quite a site for professionals and non-professionals alike rolling on the banked track. Jimmy Fallon was one of the most fun. He was having just as much fun with us as we were watching him. He talked a lot to the crowd and shook a lot of hands.
For the many of you stressing about Drew's elbow move, don't worry as it was is handled appropriately.
This movie was a hell of a lot of fun to work on and I'm sure no matter how you may feel about it now, you will really enjoy the film when it comes out.
If any of you have other questions I can answer, please feel free to ask and I will answer them to the best of my knowledge here. (Again, some things I can't divulge due to my contract but I will do my best.)
Actor, Producer, Director
Rock Your Socks Productions
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2269943
http://www.rockyoursocksproductions.com
You don't get Paid?!?
I was astonished to be informed that most, if not all of you ladies do roller derby on a volunteer basis! I just assumed that this was considered at least a Semi-professional sport and you ladies therefore were paid athletes. I was told that not only are you not paid, but You have to pay to play with dues, etc. That seems incredible to me considering how much time and effort you put into this, not to mention the sacrifice on your bodies from the constant contact with the wood floors, turnbuckles, and each other. The sacrifices you all make to enjoy this 'hobby' then is beyond admirable. But I still think you should be getting at least a small piece of the pie from the admission sales! So if I ever somehow strike it rich I promise you I will start a Professional roller derby league where you will all be paid your rightful due!
It's true!
I was astonished to be informed that most, if not all of you ladies do roller derby on a volunteer basis!
Also, many skaters adopt pun-based "derby names," wear fishnets while playing, and have mainstream day jobs that are a marked counterpoint to what they do by night.
JFM
WHAT??? IT'S AN OUTRAGE I
WHAT??? IT'S AN OUTRAGE I TELL YOU!!!
Re: You don't get Paid?!?
But I still think you should be getting at least a small piece of the pie from the admission sales!
I've not made the league, yet (tryouts Saturday!), but it's my understanding that all the money goes back to the league (to pay for all the things that we use - building rental, practice space, travel, advertising, etc). It's not like the leadership gets a piece of the pie and the skaters get nothing. I could totally be wrong, though... wouldn't be the first time.
Somebody moved my pie. And ate most of it.
But I still think you should be getting at least a small piece of the pie from the admission sales!
I've not made the league, yet (tryouts Saturday!), but it's my understanding that all the money goes back to the league (to pay for all the things that we use - building rental, practice space, travel, advertising, etc). It's not like the leadership gets a piece of the pie and the skaters get nothing. I could totally be wrong, though... wouldn't be the first time.
What pie? I'm starving. It better be sugar-free.
But seriously, most of the money made from derby bouts goes to a few places. Practice rink-time is a big one for most leagues. Even bigger if you're in one of the few cities that no longer have any suitable roller rinks in them. Hell, if not for derby there might be a lot more cities without roller rinks.
If you're in one of those places (or have a banked track), you need a long term lease on a place of your own (that's about the size of a '70s supermarket). If you're banked track, you're also between $20-30K in the hole for the track at the get-go. But honestly, the month-to-month rent on the practice space is what'll bleed you dry.
If the rink you practice at is too small to host your crowd, you can pay anywhere from a few hundred bucks to thousands of dollars to get an arena/convention center to host bouts at.
Unless you're one of the isolationist leagues with home-brew rules, you want to go past playing with yourselves and skate interleague bouts. If you're out West (aside from CA, WA and OR) this means flying (tres expensive) or driving for five to eight hours (try doing that and playing a game). Unless you get "rollergirl housing" there's the rooms. There's travel comps but usually they don't cover anywhere near what it costs to get and stay there. If you're the host league, that travel comp payment could eat way into the profits you hopefully make off the bout.
Many (but not all) leagues are non-profits. They donate portions of the proceeds to charity.
Then there's the uniforms (sometimes the skaters foot the bill for those). Every new skater is another couple of shirts with the team(s) logo, name, number. Two skaters switch home teams to even the teams out? Two more uniforms. Draft four new skaters? Four more. See Alice busts her ankle and now Kim Chee takes her place on the travel team for the quarter? That's another uniform.
The tape you put the rope or track lights down with is surprisingly pricey if you do it right, then there's advertising, printing costs (programs, flyers, sponsorship packages, etc). You'll often have to rent or buy a P.A. Some venues make you pay for bonded security. Then there's the insurance sanctioning costs. The new rules almost require a pricey projector/screen for all the timers that must be visible, and the bulbs for those things cost a few hundred when they burn out.
The average derby league probably does better financially and outlasts the average semi-pro lacrosse, soccer, arena football or hockey franchise. Because people like you are willing to pay to play. If the leagues were screwing them over financially, you could bet they'd simply form a league of their own.
The roadsides of America are littered with the carcasses of dead semi-pro franchises. As often as not those things are funded by the pro league they tree up to. And subsidized by the city they're in. Every derby league that's ever paid people to skate is dead now except for one.
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
Just another amazing element of roller derby
Not all roller derby leagues are the same. But a large portion of the flat track leagues that are popping up all over the place the past few years are following the WFTDA philosophy of "by the skaters, for the skaters."
And from the derby teams I've seen on and off the track, it's just amazing what they accomplish.
WFTDA's site itself can explain their philosophy best:
http://www.wftda.com/about/
But seeing it in action is what I recommend.
So while on the one hand, paying to play can seem astonishing. If you see the stuff some of these leagues are capable of, it's very heartening. The skaters are professional athletes in every sense of the word, but unlike, say, major league baseball, the skaters also have a stake in the control, organization and direction of their league and their entire sport. That's a pretty big upside right there.
We Do Get Paid
you will all be paid your rightful due!
This one time, I was given a half-finished Pabst Blue Ribbon and a room temperature slice of pizza with god-only-knows what on it.
That's worth nearly a hundred bouts, right?
You need better representation
This one time ... I got paid a burrito for just standing in a corner and holding a white board in the air every few laps.
I think you need a better agent.
Luckily, Scott Boras is big on Twitter. If he can stop trying to out tweet Ochocinco, he could probably get you a new deal that involves an entire beer and piping hot pizza. Maybe even two slices, if you're prepared to hold out for part of the season.
;)
An entire beer??
Soon all the volunteers will start expecting such great things - shush your mouths or you'll ruin our sweet setup!
You might be stunned to
You might be stunned to realize what a small piece of the pie --if any -- is left from admission sales after we've paid for venues, DJs, EMTs, insurance, practice space, uniforms, travel, etc. etc. etc. No, we're not getting paid, but no one else is getting rich off of us either.
you really wanna help?
If you're looking to help out, buy an airplane and fly all roller derby leagues to their rightful games for free.
That would be a hellva lot more useful than a "professional Roller Derby league".
But, but..........
I will start a Professional roller derby league where you will all be paid your rightful due!
That would be redundant--there are Professional roller derby leagues, at least you could argue that the ones with WFTDA membership are.
Let us not get hyperbolic
I am all for praising the time, effort, athleticism and dedication of the various roller girl leagues, but calling them "professional" is a bit much. The very definition of "professional" has nothing to do with how much you love something or do something or even the code of conduct used. It is, frankly, about getting paid. In money.
There are numerous existing leagues of various sports with large numbers of participants who travel from place to place engaging in their selected endeavour with a strong code of conduct and work ethic. It makes them dedicated sportsmen (or as the PC folks say, "sportswomen" when applicable), but it does not make them professional nor does the fact they charge admission for it (though it does put them in the sports and entertainment business).
I am on the list of people who have been paid for roller derby and when I think about getting a few bucks and all the expenses paid for some weekend shows compared to the old timers who actually made a living doing this 200 times a year, well I tend to cut down on my use of the term "professional" at that point.
I am not sure why it so important to use that term anyway. Yes it sounds better, but its misleading, incorrect and in reality unnecessary at this point in time. Dressing something up into something it is not, does not add credibilty or respect, especially when res ipsa loquitur is clear.
What will make a professional league is the same thing that always makes a professional league. Money going out with much more money coming in. Since that is not about to happen any time soon (for reasons we have beaten to death 1000 times) so just enjoy it for what it is now.
Professionalism indicates the existence of a professional
I am all for praising the time, effort, athleticism and dedication of the various roller girl leagues, but calling them "professional" is a bit much. The very definition of "professional" has nothing to do with how much you love something or do something or even the code of conduct used. It is, frankly, about getting paid. In money.
There are numerous existing leagues of various sports with large numbers of participants who travel from place to place engaging in their selected endeavour with a strong code of conduct and work ethic. It makes them dedicated sportsmen (or as the PC folks say, "sportswomen" when applicable), but it does not make them professional nor does the fact they charge admission for it (though it does put them in the sports and entertainment business).
I am on the list of people who have been paid for roller derby and when I think about getting a few bucks and all the expenses paid for some weekend shows compared to the old timers who actually made a living doing this 200 times a year, well I tend to cut down on my use of the term "professional" at that point.
I am not sure why it so important to use that term anyway. Yes it sounds better, but its misleading, incorrect and in reality unnecessary at this point in time. Dressing something up into something it is not, does not add credibilty or respect, especially when res ipsa loquitur is clear.
What will make a professional league is the same thing that always makes a professional league. Money going out with much more money coming in. Since that is not about to happen any time soon (for reasons we have beaten to death 1000 times) so just enjoy it for what it is now.
You're not looking at the full scope of the word's multiple definitions.
"Having or showing great skill; expert: a professional repair job."
"Related Words for : professional
professional person, pro, master"
It's not misleading. It's a correct usage of the word in the context in which it was meant.
My point was, and still is, Roller Derby transcends the "get paid" attitude that some other sports are currently extremely focused on. That doesn't make the skaters any less professional in their conduct or abilities.
I am going to continue to compare skateboarding and other
"extreme" sports to roller derby.
Here is how I, personally, see all of this working out. That is...skaters getting paid to skate.
Okay, look at skateboarding. It was pretty much invented 30+ years ago by a group of surfers who just wanted to have fun. It grew, and grew, and eventually got organized to some level and they had competitions. At these competitions there was maybe some prize money cobbed together. Then...some of the surfer/skate boarders grew up and started to develop companies and products devoted to their community and market. From the sales of these products..there started to be some money. With that money, these people were able to build teams and take care of their skaters with travel, some shwag, and probably a bit more. This period is still in the early stages of skateboarding (early 80's) and was still considered an underground sport. So, out of those early years came the first wave of "pro" skaters and your superstars. Like Tony Hawk, Steve Alba, Marc Gonzales, etc. With their popularity, they were able to get products of their own, and with the sales of these products to other skaters, they made money. And then it goes on from there.....
Does anyone see any similarities?
My thoughts are this, we are still in the early stages of derby. We are still building an identity and community. Our WFTDA leagues serve as organization for our sport to standardize and grow. I don't think money will come out of the WFTDA and what we do as skaters here. Our leagues really are training grounds for us. It is going to come from us creating teams and products for us and selling a product to a larger market. Athletes are able to go "Pro" because there is money from sponsors and products to pay them. So, until there is some "real" money invested..ain't nobody getting paid except for their travel stipends, maybe some shwag, and some free beer and food.
This movie is definitely a step in the right direction as far as marketing the sport and making it a household name. But we really need more big sponsors and skater owned a run companies with products to create revenue...and you are going to need to make cool stuff that the likes of OMG Rollegirl will make her mom buy her at the mall.
Was this too long?
you took the words out of my mouth.
and you are going to need to make cool stuff that the likes of OMG Rollegirl will make her mom buy her at the mall.
exactly.
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Getting paid in full!
I see the movie being a Huge shot in the arm for derby! I think it'll increase awareness, curiosity, and attendance nationwide. I also (only half-facetiously) think someone should contact Drew Barrymore to see if she would sponsor a league.
God knows, she can afford it. And she can call it whatever she wants, i.e. The West Coast Whip It league, or whatever, as long as she's paying the bills. That would be a win-win scenario, imho.
I'm sure Ms. Barrymore is
I'm sure Ms. Barrymore is well aware of her sponsorship opportunities. But she comes from a multi-generational performer family that has also made her well aware that the money available today needs to be preserved and grown in such a way, that it's still available at a future time when opportunities to earn more aren't quite as available.
Credit Where Credit is Due
I see the movie being a Huge shot in the arm for derby!
There are over 400 roller derby leagues.
The WFTDA accounts for several dozen of those.
"shot in the arm" is a metaphor used to describe something that needs assistance.
I see 400 leagues, thousands upon thousands of skaters, an *inter*national organization, and tournaments now happening around the globe, and I don't see something that needs or requires assistance.
I look forward to this film, but please don't mischaracterize this sport like it will cease to exist or dawdle in nothingness save for the film.
"Shot in the Arm"
There are over 400 roller derby leagues.
The WFTDA accounts for several dozen of those.
"shot in the arm" is a metaphor used to describe something that needs assistance.
I see 400 leagues, thousands upon thousands of skaters, an *inter*national organization, and tournaments now happening around the globe, and I don't see something that needs or requires assistance.
I look forward to this film, but please don't mischaracterize this sport like it will cease to exist or dawdle in nothingness save for the film.
I didn't get that impression from Whip It! Extra at ALL. I think they meant to say that Whip It! will put DIY derby even further into the spotlight.
TARA ARMOV #51
LA Derby Dolls
Interleague Task Force
Training Team Co-Head
"That Which Does Not Kill You Makes For A Good Story"
Thank you Tara
That is Precisely what I meant!
Fair Enough
I stand corrected.
I do see the overall point being made, but bristled over the metaphor used.
I joined a martial arts studio after, not before, I saw Karate Kid.
ownership
I also (only half-facetiously) think someone should contact Drew Barrymore to see if she would sponsor a league.
God knows, she can afford it. And she can call it whatever she wants, i.e. The West Coast Whip It league, or whatever, as long as she's paying the bills. That would be a win-win scenario, imho.
Not to split hairs, but that's ownership, not sponsorship. Our sponsors get whatever their sponsorship contract outlines they are entitled to depending on the amount they sponsor. I can assure you that a sponsor has exactly no say in what to name, nor how to run a league. That said, we'll take a couple two tree bucks from Drew if she's offering. :)
Lippy Wrongstockings
Tri-City Roller Girls
Naming rights are a huge
Naming rights are a huge part of the sports world in terms of sponsorship. TD BankNorth does not own the TD BankNorth Garden. Staples does not own the Staples Center. They pay several millions of dollars to have the building named after them for a contracted period of time. When the contract expires, the name goes up for bid and it has a new name and signage and product placement bonus within it.
So in theory, there could be a Flower Power (or whatever Drew's company is called) Roller Derby league that her company purchases the right to have this league bear its name, but not in how the league operates. Thats all laid out in the contract though.
Anna swears she doesn't have a Bachelors in Sports Mgnt. Okay maybe.
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Different atttitudes toward professional
What will make a professional league is the same thing that always makes a professional league. Money going out with much more money coming in. Since that is not about to happen any time soon (for reasons we have beaten to death 1000 times) so just enjoy it for what it is now.
If you define professional by the amount of $$/corporate largesse an association or a league draws, then the WFTDA may not be all that professional. However, having gone to tournaments and some all star team bouts and witnessing the skill, strategy, dedication and guts on display, I would classify the WFTDA as professional.
Not to split hairs here but..
What will make a professional league is the same thing that always makes a professional league. Money going out with much more money coming in. Since that is not about to happen any time soon (for reasons we have beaten to death 1000 times) so just enjoy it for what it is now.
If you define professional by the amount of $$/corporate largesse an association or a league draws, then the WFTDA may not be all that professional. However, having gone to tournaments and some all star team bouts and witnessing the skill, strategy, dedication and guts on display, I would classify the WFTDA as professional.
I would define professional as not merely the amount of money one draws but whether or not one is getting paid. Again, no one is disparaging the "skill, strategy, dedication, and guts" displayed by these ladies. But the same can be said for any number of sports or other activities and they are not professional. One could be the most hilarious person in the world, but until one is being paid to do it, its not professional comedian. You may be a fine piano player who puts on a great show, but until you are making money from it, you are not professional. A Class A ballplayer may not be 'major league', but he sure is a professional. Womens USA may go down in history as one of the great flops in sports history, but those women were clearly professional. As much of a non-draw the WNBA is, no one can say the women are not professional.
I can see where one may say it comes across as professional, which is certainly reasonable and complementary, especially with little to compare it to. To expand the meaning of professional to the "skill, strategy, dedication and guts" thereby either exalts every athletic competitor, every showman, every one who does anything with skill and guts as a "professional". It also, conversely disparages anyone who shows such traits and does not get called professional. Is the High school volleyball team professional? The College? The traveling Rugby Teams? all of them share those aforementioned traits, yet no one even considers using the same adjective. It raises a question of why though I have my own meager theories on this.
There is often, so much of a backlash within this community for not being taken 'seriously' and often having to constantly explain the merits of what you do. Now I will skip over many of the historical inaccuracies (much of what you are trying to overcome is the fault of roller games and not roller derby for example) as no matter who you are it is painful to bust your arse doing something and then get told it does not matter. And much of why it is not taken seriously is from some aspects of the roller girl subculture itself. But who cares either way? Does adding the word professional really set it apart? no. does not using the term professional make it less compelling? Not in the least. In fact, I would argue that it becomes even more compelling because it is ALL sacrifice. Do not confuse pride with professionalism.
I am a lawyer. I do not give free legal advice. I usually do not even listen to a legal problem without getting paid for it. Its my profession and my expertise and it damn well better be compensated any time I use it. I take pride in what I do because I am a professional, but i can also be a dick about it. why? because I am a professional and professionals can be dicks because we are damn good at what we do. Good enough to refuse to do what we do without being paid.
But there are other things in life that I never get a dime for and do it for my love of the activity. I am not a dick and while some would say I am 'acting professional" the truth is I so enjoy what I am doing and have such pride in it that I am never a dick about it. That should be enough. Just like these ladies do and that is enough for me.
With the rollergirls there are many teams that I wish were professional. There are many skaters that I wish were making a living at this or at least getting some significant extra scratch. I find them enjoyable and entertaining enough to pay money to see them under the right circumstances. But i dont NEED them to be called or thought of as professional in order to enjoy them or respect them. I just need them to be damn good at what they do. Fortunately, there is no shortage of those who are just that.
Re: Splitting Hairs
Its my profession and my expertise and it damn well better be compensated any time I use it. I take pride in what I do because I am a professional, but i can also be a dick about it. why? because I am a professional and professionals can be dicks because we are damn good at what we do. Good enough to refuse to do what we do without being paid.
There is a difference between being a professional and being a dick. I am a teacher... we *are* technically considered professionals (even if many don't understand why - those people can eat me.) Anyway, while I'm certainly paid for my job, there are MANY times when I'm not compensated for what I do. (Not just talking about low pay, but about the many times I've helped and tutored on a volunteer basis - pro bono, if you will.) I'm not a dick about it. Maybe I'm just a nice person?
I get your point about professional generally connoting that people are getting paid, but I believe you *are* splitting hairs here since the word has come to more broadly mean that people are very skilled at what they do. Would it be misleading to call ourselves professional since the general understanding of that term in reference to athletes is that they get paid? Probably. Is it okay to say that we conduct ourselves in the same manor as professional athletes? Hell yes.
Also, it is before noon and coffee... too much thinking.
Never too early to think
I was a teacher as well, come from a long line of them so I understand your point. But the job of teaching is frequently professionals being UNDERpaid. Though when you consider its an 8 or 9 month job, maybe not to some people (i am not in that group though).
The very nature of teaching is a giving profession.
The definition you are using is new. As for saying they conduct themselves in a professional manner, I believe I clearly made that point several posts ago. I also stated that its perfectly complimentary and fine to use such a description. But to call it professional straight up is inaccurate and unneccessary.
As for being a dick sometimes I must confess, when i consider how much it cost me to become a teacher and how much it cost me to become an attorney,well its easier to be a dick about giving my legal acumen away for free.
yeah. was a bit drunkish
yeah. was a bit drunkish when I posted that. Was enjoying some beer while vicariously enjoying Duke V Boston via boutcast.
Men invented derby. Women revitalized it in its current incarnation.
sorry 'bout that.
paid roller derby
paying for the girls to skate is like paying for parents to raise children you do it for the love of it you hope you bring some joy into the world and you hope that other jackasses do not screw it up by putting a pricetag on it (99% OF THE TIME THAT JACK ASS IS MALE) i PERSONALLY consider derby as a babysitting gig hoping all the girls play well together and NOBODY gets hurt WOMEN UP
HAVING SAID THAT
having said that i am sure somebody is making money off these girls if there are 400 teams and i bet it is the same guy who said that real sports are played by men SMOKESCREEN DID YOUR MOTHER REALLY RAISE YOU TO BE AN OPPORTUNISTIC $%##$&% i THINK NOT tHIS MOVIE IS GOING TO PUT DERBY ON THE MAP AND THE BOYS WILL HAVE TO PAY UP YEAH
Seriously?
I love you.
And Picard kicks ass.
SERIOUSLY
SERIOUSLY
As we've stated frequently
DNN welcomes vigorous, thoughtful, and respectful discussion in article comments on our site. Despite a strongly worded note of caution, Rae's not meeting the last two criteria, so we are suspending that user account. We're gonna leave a couple of her comments in place along with this notice, pour encourager les autres.
Her?
I would not be surprised if Rae was actually a Ray.
There's something about testosterone that interferes with the normal functioning of a brain.
- bjmacke (a.k.a. Apron)
Picard faked me out
On a slightly more funny note, Justice faked me out with the Picard pic. I thought for sure I'd see the bunny with the flapjack on its head before I saw Jean Luc crop up in the discussion.
Well played Justice. Well played.
;)
a request
Please could we agree that the male gender has been disparaged adequately within these threads today and cease the trend for a while? It is generally considered bad form to fault someone for the color of their skin or the nature of their sexual preferences these days, yet some still seem to find easy sport in maligning an entire gender. Stumbling upon such remarks repeatedly is not humorous for everyone, and I don't feel that it adds to the discussion about this sport.
Slack Kerowhack
Just curious...
So I've read a lot of threads that discuss this, but nothing factual. Does anyone know, Approximately, what percentage of roller derby girls are lesbian? I don't personally care one way or the other; it's just that I've seen percentages thrown out there that range anywhere from 20% to 60% and I'd simply like to know if they're accurate. I apologize in advance if anyone's offended by this query. No malice was intended, I assure you. I'm just ignorant to this subject. ( And I Know someone's going to say that I'm just ignorant for asking-Period!) Oh well, I was always taught there's no such thing as a stupid question.
Warning: Math
Okay, two options:
Does anyone know, Approximately, what percentage of roller derby girls are lesbian?
No
Does anyone know, Approximately, what percentage of roller derby girls are lesbian?
Some percentage between zero and one.
Preferences?
- bjmacke (a.k.a. Apron)
Math?
Does anyone know, Approximately, what percentage of roller derby girls are lesbian?
Some percentage between zero and one.
No higher than 1%? I think you're missing a critical word at the end of that sentence, Apron :)
JFM
Yep!
Warned ya. Math ahead. :)
(Okay, I'll show my math. zero = 0%, one = 100%. It's splitting hairs, but by golly that's what the Internet is made for.)
- bjmacke (a.k.a. Apron)
"Hurl Scouts" @ Comic-Con!
Here are some new pics of a team of Hurl Scout-outfitted derby girls representing Whip It! at the San Diego geek uberfest known as Comic-Con. Check it out!
http://content.foxsearchlight.com/inside/node/3665
DragonCon in Atlanta
I'll be at DragonCon this year - Labor Day weekend. If anyone else is going, or is in the area, I'd be happy to be a Hurl Scout! Maybe some Atlanta roller ladies?
I guess I'd need to borrow a green helmet. :-P
Why not...
...just go as yourself? I think that would promote the movie, too, and the sport.
And would probably be a lot easier than trying to put together a hurl scout uniform.
Hurl Scouts at Comic-Con
San Diego skaters?
http://dl.maximumpc.com/galleries/sdcc09cosplay/cosplay_042_full.jpg
Yep
Some LA ones too. Kind of funny seeing some of the skaters from the "Tough Cookies", the real team that was the inspiration for the "Hurl Scouts", skating the SD streets in "Hurl Scout" uniforms.
Bonnie D.
Yep, I see Bonnie D. Stroir of the San Diego Derby Dolls.
I wonder if they did it on their own, or if they were pressed into duty by the publisher to help promote the movie?
If by...
Yep, I see Bonnie D. Stroir of the San Diego Derby Dolls.
I wonder if they did it on their own, or if they were pressed into duty by the publisher to help promote the movie?
If by "pressed into duty" you mean, "paid", then yes, they were.
TARA ARMOV #51
LA Derby Dolls
Interleague Task Force
Training Team Co-Head
"That Which Does Not Kill You Makes For A Good Story"
Exactly...
If by "pressed into duty" you mean, "paid", then yes, they were.
Heh, exactly what I thought... but I didn't want to assume. :)
Whip It Derby Map
I don't know how many folks have been over to the foxsearchlight.com/whipit site recently, but if you click on the "MEET REAL DERBY TEAMS!" ((gosh, CAN i??)) button, it takes you to a map of the US, with stars where all the currently-registered-with-them derby leagues are. Hovering over a star displays a corresponding league name and home city; clicking on the star will take you to that league's profile page. It's a little wonky in places -- there is some weird latency whereby if you move the pointer from star to star too quickly, the last star's data won't clear out promptly, so you can move your pointer to Las Vegas and still have it display Sioux Falls' info -- but, all in all, i think it's kinda neat. Assuming that site isn't going to be maintained forever, what're the odds that DNN puts together a similar map someday? I mean, you know, with all your burgeoning free time and such.
and
it goes by the city you bout in. thats why boston derby dames are listed as being FROM wilmington, which isn't 100% accurate. we bout in wilmington but we're based out of boston.
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts
Derby Map
There is this Derby Map done by Weird Al Spankabitch of Nashville.
Due to the limitations of google is only shows the leagues listed on the left on the map. So you have to go to the second page to see more.
Derby Map
If there's anyone missing on there you can post up on here.
Wrong link, JoeXCore?
I think you just gave us directions from your bout to your friends' home?
I've seen the one you're talking about, I think. I've also seen one that has VERY THOROUGH coverage of the NE U.S. (but disappointingly it doesn't cover Canada).
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
Derby Map well there's the
Derby Map
well there's the correct link
it does include teams in Canada.. most of them are just on page 2
If you could change my original link.. that would be super
wftda derby map
flattrackstats has a wftda derby map here
That's being done in a few places...
Assuming that site isn't going to be maintained forever, what're the odds that DNN puts together a similar map someday? I mean, you know, with all your burgeoning free time and such.
Cat O'Ninetails from Roller Derby Worldwide (and Dominion Derby Girls) was compiling a map of all roller derby leagues. I can't find the link to it at present, as I recall she'd gotten all of the international leagues (at that date, anyways) entered, and had stopped at about two leagues in the U.S. The U.S. is no doubt a daunting task.
http://www.zeemaps.com/map?group=35527
-Barely even speaking for myself...
*~[
Grand Poobah
DerbyMatic/DNN
The Inner Loopers
Roc City Roller Derby
Short vid of Whip It! derby girls skating @ San Diego Comic-Con:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPZJX8larYw
I've been working on a map...
You can see it here.
Originally the idea was just to cover leagues in NJ, but then I expanded it to the out-of-state leagues that my league plays, and then I figured, what the hell, let's see if I can find everyone north and east of the Mason-Dixon line (well, maybe just slightly south of the line, I included the DC, Maryland and Delaware leagues in there).
I'm not sure what the next step is. If someone from DNN or derbyroster.com or wherever wants to use it, they're welcome to.
EDIT: Why the heck don't my replies ever get nested as replies? Is it some magical power the Reverend Norb is exercising that prevents my posts from sticking to his? GRR!
-----
Production Manager, Announcer, Pit Crew
Western Jersey Outlaws/Morristown Madams
holy crap
I never realized how much derby was in the north east.
Anna
Boston Massacre: The pantsless wonders of Massachusetts