Derby Crazy Love

Synopsis

Derby Crazy Love explores the evolution of the reemerging Flat Track Roller Derby, with a focus on its international sisterhood. There are over 100 leagues in Canada and 1,400 worldwide. Maya Gallus, one of the co-creators, explains, “[Derby is] female-dominated and player-owned and -operated, which already distinguishes it from any other sport.” As the film begins, Montreal’s New Skids on the Block rematch against the UK’s London Rollergirls for a shot at the international championships, and New York City’s Gotham Girls (which includes derby superstar, Suzy Hotrod and Bonnie Thunders) defend their title. This film captures how roller derby is part of punk’s counterculture, which tackles issues of masculinity, femininity, aggression, body image, queer identity and gender norms. Each team consists of athletes with these various identities that have found a team where they belong. Gallus states, “Nobody’s making a big feminist point or a queer statement, [derby] just is inclusive.” This sport is also a healthy outlet for of aggression, which is often denied to women. Montreal’s team leader, Smack Daddy, summarizes the spirit of derby, “The fact that you’re combining roller skating, which is like, ‘let’s hold hands and go to the roller-rink,’ with chicks beating on each other physically is like, fireworks.”

Production

This film features music by Montreal’s Plastik Patrik et les Brutes, Lesbians on Ecstasy and New York’s Kissy Kamikaze.

Awards

Festivals

Broadcasts

Global TV (Canada)

Reviews