Bliss Cavendar is a small-town teenager living in Bodeen, Texas, who feels stifled by her conservative upbringing and her mother’s insistence that she compete in beauty pageants. Despite her mother’s wishes, Bliss is drawn to the world of roller derby after attending a match in nearby Austin.
Bliss lies about her age and tries out for the Hurl Scouts, a struggling roller derby team, under the pseudonym “Babe Ruthless.” Despite her lack of experience, Bliss impresses the team’s captain, Maggie Mayhem, with her determination and natural athleticism, and she earns a spot on the team.
As Bliss becomes more involved in roller derby, she discovers a newfound sense of confidence and empowerment. She forms close bonds with her teammates, who come from diverse backgrounds and share a passion for the sport. Bliss also develops a romantic interest in Oliver, a musician and fellow roller derby enthusiast.
However, Bliss struggles to balance her newfound passion for roller derby with her responsibilities at home and her mother’s disapproval. When her mother discovers Bliss’ involvement in roller derby, she forbids her from participating in any more matches.
Despite her mother’s objections, Bliss decides to compete in the championship match with the Hurl Scouts. With the support of her teammates and her father, who finally stands up to Bliss’ mother, Bliss competes in the match and helps lead the Hurl Scouts to victory.
In the end, Bliss reconciles with her mother and earns her respect by standing up for herself and pursuing her passion for roller derby. She also decides to pursue her dreams of attending college and playing roller derby professionally, setting off on a new path with confidence and determination. The film ends with Bliss skating off into the future, ready to take on whatever challenges come her way.