Rocky is an American sports drama franchise created by filmmaker and actor Sylvester Stallone. The four films were released in 1976, 1979, 1982, and 1985. The series has long been a staple of popular culture, inspiring millions of boxing fans since its release.
ROCKY
Synopsis:
Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), a small-time boxer and mafia collector, is chosen to take on the reigning heavyweight world champion, Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers), when the undefeated fighter’s scheduled opponent is injured. While training with former boxing contender Mickey Goldmill (Burgess Meredith), Rocky begins a passionate relationship with Adrian (Talia Shire), the wallflower sister of his friend and meat-packer Paulie (Burt Young).
Personal Review: 8.5/10
The first movie in the Rocky series has been an icon in film making since its release. Whether it comes from the incredible narrative or the magnificent production on a budget of just $1 million, Rocky has stood the test of time as potentially one of the best films ever. However, the acting from Sylvester Stallone is sub-par, although a counter argument can be made since it was Stallone’s first movie.
Notable Scene: The First Training Montage
Rocky’s run through the streets of Philadelphia has often been parodied and has inspired countless metaphors of overcoming challenges and has remained in popular culture for decades.
Fun Fact:
Butkus (Rocky’s dog) was played by Butkus Stallone, Sylvester Stallone’s real dog, whom he had to sell to make ends meet. After selling the script for Rocky, Stallone was able to buy Butkus back. Behind the scenes shots of Rocky’s iconic training montage.
ROCKY II
Synopsis:
Although working-class Philadelphia boxer Rocky Balboa lost his high-profile match with the world champion Apollo Creed, his comeback story caught the national sports media’s attention, and he now has the opportunity to capitalize on his sudden fame. Meanwhile, Creed is still upset from nearly losing to Rocky, a previously unknown fighter, and arrogantly prods the new championship contender into getting back in the ring.
Personal Review: 9/10
The second movie in the series features another exhibition of an underdog story and again, amazing film making. What makes this sequel place higher, however, is the ending. This movie gives the ending that the audience had been looking for since the first installment: Rocky’s victory.
Notable Scene: Apollo and Rocky’s Second Fight
After Apollo and Rocky’s first fight, in which Apollo wins by split decision, a rematch is demanded by Apollo. This is because he is accused of rigging the fight to protect his reign as champion. In the final round, both men, exhausted, trade punches until they knock each other down. As both men struggle to stand back up, Rocky is able to will himself up at the count of 9 while Apollo collapses from exhaustion, giving Rocky the win by knockout, making him the new heavyweight champion.
Fun Fact:
Around 800 local schoolchildren participated as extras for Rocky’s second run through Philadelphia.
ROCKY III
Synopsis: After becoming the world heavyweight champion, Rocky becomes lazy and overconfident, losing his title to Clubber Lang. With the help of Apollo Creed, he regains his fighting spirit and defeats Lang to reclaim the title.
Personal Review: 9/10 This movie showcases Rocky’s inspiring transformation and features a beautifully choreographed fight with Clubber Lang. The presence of Mr. T adds to its appeal, earning it a high rating.
Notable Scene The death of Mickey, Rocky’s trainer and manager, after his first fight with Clubber Lang, is a significant and emotional moment in the film.
Fun Fact: In the beginning of the Rocky statue dedication, one of the drummers has “Mr. T” written on his drum, possibly as a dedicated fan or having obtained Mr. T’s signature during filming.
ROCKY IV
Synopsis: After reclaiming the boxing championship title, Rocky seeks revenge against Ivan Drago for killing Apollo Creed. He trains in Russia and ultimately defeats Drago in a long and intense match.
Personal Review: 9/10 This installment showcases great acting and choreography but ranks lower due to the killing off of a beloved character. However, it is understandable as a plot development method.
Notable Scene The fight with Ivan Drago, where Rocky avenges Apollo Creed’s death by defeating Drago in a brutal 15-round match, is a pivotal moment in the film.
Fun Fact: Sylvester Stallone was hospitalized for four days after being hit by Dolph Lundgren during filming, causing his heart to hit his breastbone and restricting oxygen flow to his body.
