I’m not a huge sports fan, but for some reason I really like sports films. All of those ‘based on a true story’ feel good movies that see the underdogs rising up to the occasion and beating the odds, or in the case of Friday Night Lights, LOSING HARD. Well sports documentaries are no different and there’s been some great ones over the years (Go! Tigers, The Smashing Machine, Ring of Fire). I’ve often asked myself ‘What is it about these sports films that hook me?’. And i’m reminded of my good friend Doug Nagy and his love for the film Bloodsport. The reason these movies work so well is…THE TOURNAMENT. Watching a number of teams compete while some old Asian man standing on a ladder shifts their names across a giant leaderboard is nothing short of exciting. Well there’s a new sports documentary on the horizon and my inner spark has been ignited…

“Shot over seven years (1998-2004), JAM follows the saga of the America Roller Derby League, a group of fading Roller Derby stars who, despite the fact that they are in their 50s and 60s, are determined to make the sport a national sensation once again.”

Roller Derby! Now I don’t know if this is going to fall under the ‘Tournament’ style sports film genre, but this sounds like a fun film. Of course it’s not just about a bunch of old people Roller Skating. “At the center of it all is Tim Patten, the league’s founder and impresario. Diagnosed HIV positive in 1983, Tim believes his passion for Roller Derby is what keeps him alive. Against all odds he pours thousands of dollars into different ideas, ranging from starting an Internet TV show to hiring models, in an effort to bring in crowds.” Sounds promising. Unfortunately there’s no trailer as of yet, and the site is pretty sparce aside from some reviews and a synopsis. The film is currently making the festival run and is directed by Mark Woollen who’s credits include mostly music videos (The Fugees and The RZA!). Keep your eyes peeled for this one.

Related Link: Jam The Movie: The Official Website