Hell on Wheels (2007 film) facts for kids

Hell on Wheels is a 2007 documentary film. It tells the exciting story of a group of women in Texas. These women worked together to bring back roller derby for the 21st century. They started in the lively music and arts scene of Austin, Texas. These women created a new, rock-and-roll style of all-girl roller derby. This new version helped start the roller derby craze that is now popular across the country.

What is Roller Derby?

Roller derby is a contact sport played on roller skates. Two teams skate around an oval track. The goal is for one player, called a "jammer," to score points. They score by lapping members of the opposing team. It's a fast-paced and exciting sport. It combines speed, strategy, and teamwork.

A Brief History of Roller Derby

Roller derby first became popular in the 1930s. It started as endurance races. Over time, it changed into a full-contact sport. It was very popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Then, it faded away for a while. The film Hell on Wheels shows how it was brought back to life.

The Story of the Film

The film Hell on Wheels focuses on the women who revived roller derby. They were part of the Austin, Texas, music and arts community. They wanted to create something new and exciting. They formed teams like the TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls and the Texas Rollergirls. The movie shows their journey. It highlights their struggles and triumphs. It also shows how they built a strong community. Their efforts led to a huge growth in roller derby. Now, teams exist all over the world.

Music in the Film

The film features original music by the band ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead. Their music helps set the energetic mood of the film. It adds to the rock-and-roll feel of the roller derby matches.

Who Made the Film?

Many talented people worked on Hell on Wheels.

• Director: Bob Ray
• Producer: Werner Campbell and Bob Ray
• Editor: Conor O’Neill and Cory Ryan
• Music: ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead

Who is in the Film?

The documentary features many real-life roller derby players and groups.

• TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls (BGGW)
• Nancy Haggerty
• Anya Jack
• Heather Burdick
• April Herman
• Sara Luna
• Amanda Fields
• Texas Rollergirls
• Lane Greer
• Laurie Rourke
• Theresa Papas
• Amy Sherman
• Rachelle Moore