The story that Rocky tells is simple, straightforward, and even formulaic at times. What differentiates the film from other sports pictures is that it has a big heart. The screenplay understands that to make a moving sports movie, there have to be characters that are worth caring for and rooting for. There is a reason Rocky is still so fondly remembered after all these years. Sylvester Stallone spends more effort into developing his now iconic characters than the final fight itself. That being said, this is still a movie of excitement and sensation, with its momentum being built steadily, and finally reaching its peak with some of the most energetic sports scenes ever made.
Rocky Balboa went from a relatively unknown boxer to a boxing legend. Life imitates art, and this wonderful film about him turned Stallone into an instant movie star. He gives one of the best sports performances, impressively believable as an ordinary athlete without any big aspirations. The amazing supporting characters build a strong base for Rocky, particularly the love interest Adrian (Talia Shire), who makes a sincere love story along the way with Rocky.
One thing seldom mentioned about Rocky is how exquisitely well-directed it is, by John G. Avildsen, who will go on to direct another timeless sports classic, The Karate Kid. Not only are the boxing scenes technically brilliant, but the shots of the everyday life of Philadelphia are also well framed with a pleasing aesthetic.
After these slice-of-life scenes and a vibrant training montage comes the big fight with the intimidating Apollo Creed. By the end, the result is unimportant to Rocky and to us. What he did along the way is what's precious about this journey. The hard work, the determination, the persistence. Here is a moving film that will motivate its viewers and make them cheer, in awe of their new hero.
Rocky Balboa went from a relatively unknown boxer to a boxing legend. Life imitates art, and this wonderful film about him turned Stallone into an instant movie star. He gives one of the best sports performances, impressively believable as an ordinary athlete without any big aspirations. The amazing supporting characters build a strong base for Rocky, particularly the love interest Adrian (Talia Shire), who makes a sincere love story along the way with Rocky.
One thing seldom mentioned about Rocky is how exquisitely well-directed it is, by John G. Avildsen, who will go on to direct another timeless sports classic, The Karate Kid. Not only are the boxing scenes technically brilliant, but the shots of the everyday life of Philadelphia are also well framed with a pleasing aesthetic.
After these slice-of-life scenes and a vibrant training montage comes the big fight with the intimidating Apollo Creed. By the end, the result is unimportant to Rocky and to us. What he did along the way is what's precious about this journey. The hard work, the determination, the persistence. Here is a moving film that will motivate its viewers and make them cheer, in awe of their new hero.