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Above is a link to an interesting and insightful, recently published, article written about creating films without a screenplay. The author, Sean Welsh, discusses Zen Filmmaking, Roller Blade Seven, and Samurai Vampire Bikers from Hell as a part of their thesis. Thanks!

I wish all the people who discuss Zen Filmmaking, on-line and otherwise, possessed the critical thinking to actually research the craft and present the genre’s foundations, understandings, and philosophies as well as this author has.

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Rollerblading Through the Apocalypse: A Look at Scott Shaw's The Roller Blade Seven

The Roller Blade Seven, directed by Donald G. Jackson and produced by Scott Shaw, stands as a monument to cinematic absurdity. Released in 1991, it defies categorization, straddling the line between action, science fiction, martial arts, and sheer lunacy. Yet, despite its flaws and nonsensical plot, the film has amassed a dedicated cult following, captivated by its unintentional humor, commitment to the bizarre, and undeniable entertainment value.

The narrative, if one can call it that, follows Hawk Goodman (Shaw), a rollerblading warrior tasked with rescuing his sister from the clutches of the evil Pharaoh (William Smith) in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Joined by a motley crew of fellow rollerbladers (the titular seven). Hawk battles cyborg ninjas, mutants, and the Pharaoh's forces in a series of nonsensical and often repetitive sequences.

But The Roller Blade Seven transcends its plot, reveling in its own weirdness. The film employs dreamlike imagery, surreal visuals, and nonsensical dialogue. Scenes repeat, sometimes with subtle variations, further blurring the lines between reality and absurdity. The editing is frenetic, the acting melodramatic, and the action sequences defy logic and physics.

This deliberate embrace of the nonsensical might alienate some viewers. Yet, within the film's absurdity lies its charm. The sheer commitment to its outlandish vision is admirable, creating a unique cinematic experience unlike any other. The repetitive scenes become hypnotic, the nonsensical dialogue unintentionally hilarious, and the action sequences, though illogical, undeniably kinetic.

The Roller Blade Seven is a celebration of the ridiculous, a testament to the power of embracing the absurd. It invites viewers to abandon expectations and simply enjoy the ride, however bumpy and nonsensical it may be. However, beneath the surface of silliness lies a deeper commentary. The film satirizes societal collapse, environmental degradation, and the cult of personality. While these themes are not overtly explored, they simmer beneath the surface, adding a layer of complexity to the seemingly mindless mayhem.

Ultimately, The Roller Blade Seven is a cinematic oddity, a love-it-or-hate-it experience. It is a testament to the creative freedom of low-budget filmmaking and the power of embracing the nonsensical. While it may not be for everyone, for those willing to surrender to its absurdity, it offers a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Further Points to Consider: • The film's cult status and its connection to B-movie culture. • The influence of Zen filmmaking philosophy on the film's creation. • The role of improvisation and chance encounters in the filmmaking process. • The potential socio-political commentary hidden within the absurd narrative.

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Here's an article I wrote to let people know a little about the feelings of Donald G. Jackson and his film, Roller Blade Warriors Taken by Force. Click on the title to read.

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Some people think that they Legend of the Roller Blade DVD is out of print. This is not the case. It is very available. Click on the link.

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Valuemart - Born to Kill

This band used footage from The Roller Blade Seven to create their music video.

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Skinny Puppy - Addiction (Unofficial Music Video "The Roller Blade Seven")

This band used footage from the Roller Blade Seven to create their music video.

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Check out the original Press Release for The Roller Blade Seven.

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Legend of the Roller Blade Seven

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As of 4 June 2021 Amazon.com will no longer be distributing films on DVD from Independent Film Production Companies like Light Source Films. We are now offering our DVD's via a new distribution company.

Click on the title to pick up your RB7 DVD.

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Here’s a L.A. Times article where they mention Roller Blade Seven.

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Interview: The Documentary. Filmed on Hollywood Blvd., in Hollywood, California, in 1992 just after the completion of the first two Zen Films: The Roller Blade Seven and Return of the Roller Blade Seven. Watch Scott Shaw and Donald G. Jackson discuss the creation of the first two Zen Films in one of the first Scott Shaw Zen Documentaries. Originally shown at the Director's Guild of America and then released on Video Tape, and later on DVD, now it's on YouTube.

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RB7 made it into this list. Check out what they say. :-)

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For the true Roller Blade Seven, Zen Filmmaking aficionado check out the movie, Roller Blade Seven: The Unseen Scenes.

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Roller Blade Seven was named number twenty-seven on the 100 best B Movies of All Time at Paste Magazine. The never-ending nature of this film never ceases to amaze me. Thanks Jim Vorel and Paste Magazine.

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For the true fan of Roller Blade Seven check out the book, Roller Blade Seven: A Photographic Exploration to see tons of Production Stills and Behind the Scenes Photographs.

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Here’s a link to the very first published review that was written about The Roller Blade Seven.