While the plot for Roll Bounce is simplistic and unoffensive as possible, there are some layers of achievement and awareness blended in through X's at-home life. His father (Chi McBride) is raising him and his sister alone, because their mother recently passed away. This raises questions for X, as he deals with growing up without the mother who pushed him to be the best skater he could be, while his father doesn't think it'll amount to much. There's an upcoming team competition at the Sweetwater rink, and X feels more pressure to skate his best with his friends, dealing with issues at home, and being true to himself.

The film is well-cast with believable, endearing kid actors, especially X's troup, and having the parental rolls actually fleshed out. The only real weakness is that of Sweetness, who doesn't say much, and basically flexes his muscles to show how 'sweet' he is.
Overall, Roll Bounce isn't too out of the ordinary in the plot department, having elements very similar to every other 'kid with a dream' film, but what X wants isn't too far out of his reach. He doesn't have to achieving the impossible or any of the sort. The kid's gotta skate, and be real to his friends and family, all while getting the girl, and keeping the audience entertained. It's not just the infectious soundtrack that keeps this movie on its feet - Roll Bounce keeps on movin', groovin', and goin' the best way it can, despite the odds and cliches.

all images from movies.yahoo.com

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