Carter Stevens' "Rollerbabies" is a curious blend of sci-fi and skin, delivering a titillating yet flawed experience. With a mix of creative concepts and cringe-worthy moments, it partially succeeds in its ambitious blend of genres. Aiming for a futuristic fantasy, the film offers a unique, if bizarre, take on adult entertainment.
Set in a futuristic world, "Rollerbabies" envisions a society devoid of sexual intimacy, replaced by a unique breed of women-the 'Rollerbabies.' These women seem to possess supernatural abilities, adding a fantastical twist to the already unusual premise. While the story sets an intriguing tone, the narrative is often confusing and underdeveloped, with an overreliance on sex scenes to carry the film.
The film has a distinct 70s aesthetic, with a vibrant yet somewhat seedy visual style. The use of color and lighting adds a layer of allure, enhancing the fantasy element. However, the production values are noticeably low, with some awkward sets and clumsy cinematography. The iconic roller-skating elements are sadly underutilized, only appearing in the final act, which feels like a missed opportunity given the film's title and premise.
The cast of "Rollerbabies" is led by Alan Marlo, Terri Hall, and Suzanne McBain. Marlo brings a certain charm to his role, and McBain, billed as a 'newcomer,' adds an intriguing presence as one of the titular Rollerbabies. However, it is Terri Hall who steals the show with a fearless and captivating performance.
In one of the film's most memorable scenes, Hall's character, a female CIA agent, uses telepathy to pleasure her male counterpart, a unique and surprisingly creative approach to an adult scene. However, this moment of innovation is soon followed by a disturbing scene in which the male character slips her a roofie, a jarring and uncomfortable shift in tone.
"Rollerbabies" is a bold attempt to merge science fiction with adult entertainment. While it offers some genuinely intriguing moments and a commendable performance by Terri Hall, it is ultimately let down by a weak narrative and inconsistent tone. This film will appeal to fans of 70s erotica and those seeking a unique, if flawed, blend of genres.