Rocky Review

What can I say about Rocky that hasn't already been said? This 1976 film written by Sylvester Stallone is remembered fondly by many, and is so widely acknowledged that it's practically a self-caricature (i.e. Rocky running up the steps and raising his arms in victory, Rocky yelling "Adrian!" repeatedly at the end of the movie).

Rocky Balboa, an amateur boxer, is presented with the opportunity of a lifetime: to fight the heavyweight champion in a title match. After some hesitation, Rocky trains under the direction of Mickey. Apollo Creed, the heavyweight champ, just views it as a show, but Rocky means business. Ultimately, this movie is a love story about Rocky and Adrian, where most of the character development happens.

Best I can remember last Saturday was the first time I've ever seen the whole film. It's a little bit before my time you could say, but with all the hype surrounding the release of Rocky Balboa, I had to see it for myself.

There's something about the story of an underdog that always fires me up, and this movie fits that description to a tee. These "Cinderella stories" are both inspiring and thought-provoking. I am often confronted with my own failures and victories, and my own shortfalls and triumphs. It inspires me to try harder.

Some may disagree, but I believe this movie is really as much about love as it is about boxing. Rocky's only concern after his bout with Apollo is Adrian. A good portion of the film is in fact about Rocky's many attempts at wooing Adrian. Most of the story revolves around these two characters.

In the end, I found it to be a very entertaining and poignant film. Stallone's writing was impressive. The acting was also surprisingly good. I don't really have anything bad to say about it.