Johnny Casar runs away from the orphanage to start a successful career as a roller skater and after setbacks learns to curb his ruthlessness and ambition.
Acting
Rooney's chaotic energy barely contained on eight wheels.
Practical Effects
Actual roller derby footage — bruises included.
Director
Tay Garnett
Mickey Rooney
Johnny Casar
Pat O'Brien
Father O'Hara
Beverly Tyler
Mary Reeves
James Brown
Allen
Ralph Dumke
Bruno Crystal
Milburn Stone
Jeff Davis
Marilyn Monroe
Polly
Sam Flint
Dr. Barton
Glenn Corbett
Mack Miller
James Anderson
Strong Arm Man (uncredited)
Al Hill
Policeman (uncredited)
Kenner G. Kemp
Roller Derby Spectator (uncredited)
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Rooney did most of his own skating after a two-week crash course, resulting in multiple on-set injuries.
Released when roller derby peaked nationally; the sport would nearly collapse within five years.
US
