Tags: rocky
Rocky (1976)
4.2 out of 5
Genre: Sports Drama
Movie Information:
Lead: Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone wrote the script for “Rocky” as a way to showcase his acting talents. His portrayal of the struggling boxer Rocky Balboa launched him into superstardom.
Lead: Talia Shire
A rising actress, Shire brings warmth and vulnerability to the role of Adrian, Rocky’s love interest.
The Movie's Business
Box Office Performance: North American Gross: $225,000,000 (a massive success, becoming the highest-grossing film of 1976)
Synopsis
Rocky” tells the inspiring story of Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), a down-and-out club fighter in Philadelphia.
He gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at the heavyweight championship when world champion Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) decides to give an unknown fighter a shot in the ring.
With the help of his trainer Mickey (Burgess Meredith) and his shy girlfriend Adrian (Talia Shire), Rocky trains relentlessly for the grueling match, knowing he has nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Required Viewing Movies (RQV): REVIEW
Strengths
Rocky is a crowd-pleasing underdog story that resonates with viewers.
Sylvester Stallone’s passionate performance as Rocky perfectly captures the character’s determination and vulnerability.
The film’s training sequences are inspiring, showcasing Rocky’s dedication and the power of hard work.
The use of Bill Conti’s iconic score adds an emotional layer to the film, particularly the theme song “Gonna Fly Now.”
Weaknesses
The film’s plot is relatively simple and predictable.
The boxing scenes, while impactful, may be intense for some viewers.
Why Rocky is Required Viewing
Rocky is more than just a boxing film; it’s a timeless story about overcoming obstacles and daring to dream big. The film’s themes of perseverance, love, and self-belief continue to inspire audiences decades after its release. Sylvester Stallone’s iconic performance and the film’s enduring message solidify “Rocky” as a must-see classic.
