The Fireball

The nationwide interest, thanks to TV, in roller derby during the late ’40s and early ’50s led to this offbeat sports drama. Mickey Rooney stars as Johnny Casar, a feisty orphan who becomes a big-time skater--with an ego to match--until he’s stricken with polio. In an early film role, Marilyn Monroe co-stars as a derby groupie who’s attracted to Johnny, and Pat O’Brien plays, of all things, a caring priest. With Beverly Tyler, Milburn Stone; directed by Tay Garnett. 84 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.