The Definitive Underdog Movie

Rating: 10/10 (19 July 2018)

Rocky is a true masterpiece of writing, acting, directing and music.
The implausibility that this film was even made, and the choice to cast (then) unknown lead actor/writer Sylvester Stallone is worthy of an Oscar in and of itself.
The story of Rocky Balboa cuts to the heart of anyone who's ever been beaten down, cast aside, or given up on. Rocky is the story of a million to one shot underdog given a chance of lifetime and a shot at something more, and an opportunity to find worth and respect.
The films beautifully unfolds the arc of a man who ultimately finds his worth and finds someone worthy to fight for, love for and live for. Rocky finds the balance between the brutality of boxing and the beauty of love and romance.
Featuring young actor/writer Sylvester Stallone in his first and perhaps signature role. Sylvester Stallone captures the heart of Rocky Balboa, a two bit club fighter just existing. Finding his only passion being that of his best friend Paulie's (Burt Young) shy sister, Adrian, who works at the corner pet store. The romance between Rocky and Adrian blossoms as the shy intellectual (Adrian) finds value and worth in the brash boxer (Rocky).
We find the current World Heavyweight champion, Apollo Creed played masterfully by first time actor (former NFL Linebacker) Carl Weathers. Creed is unable to locate a worthy opponent for his November championship fight. That is until Rocky is pulled from obscurity and given the change of a lifetime.The film also introduces us to Rocky's somewhat bitter, angry, and antagonistic manager played flawlessly by Academy Award Nominee, and veteran stage and screen actor, Burgess Meredith.
Rocky is more than just a simply film about boxing. It is a true love story. It is a movie about finding one's worth, going the distance, finding love and never giving up. This is as close to a perfect film as you will ever find.