Like a Dream

Rating: 8/10 (14 October 2018)

Rocky is a film that just works on so many levels. Yes, it was low budget, even for 1976, but it's one of the aspects of the film that actually works to it's advantage. Rocky is a man from the humble streets of Philadelphia, poor and seemingly going nowhere in life. The movie, much like it's sequels paralleled the struggles that Stallone faced making it as an actor. The cinematography and the way it's shot really sympathizes with the way Rocky saw his life. Stallone with his charm and wit took a lot of the limitations and budget restrictions of the movie and just made it work. It is unquestionably the best of the series. As time goes by it's more clear that this film carries an inspiration that resonates. I recently visited the city of Philadelphia, and saw the Rocky statue, and felt the movie has a lasting legacy, not just for Philadelphia but for all humanity. The scene just before the fight where Rocky reveals to Adrian his doubts and fears about fighting Apollo was shot at the last minute but is one of the key scenes to the movie. Truly, one of the most inspiring movies ever made!!