Inspiring, Emotional, Patriotic....A Million to One Shot

Rating: 9/10 (9 January 2009)

"SPOILERS"
This film, which was surprisingly written by Sly, has been a cultural phenomenon for the past 30 years. It's no wonder why either. This film is beautifully crafted and adds humor, emotion and action to what can called one of the greatest movies of all time.
The reason why Rocky is so effective is that it really defines the American Dream. The underdog, the unknown, who nobody believes in, he doesn't believe in himself, goes through tremendous obstacles and training to take on the "Ali-esque "Apollo Creed for the most coveted title in the world.
With colorful characters such as boxing trainer "Mick" played by Burgess Meredith and local drunkard and meat packer "Paulie" portrayed by Burt Young (though I doubt he was really acting), Rocky showcases an extraordinary ability to bring likeness and realism to these characters which really helps bring the viewer into the film. Not to mention a standout performance by Talia Shire, who beautifully plays "Adrian", Rocky's "pet shop dame".
The film follows the storyline of Rocky (Stallone), a leg-breaking loan shark working for mob boss Tony Gazzo. On the side, Rocky fights less than stellar combatants inside a dusty old Philadelphia church for low pay. On his route home, Rocky always finds the time to stop into the local pet shop and tell a humorous joke to the shy store clerk Adrian to whom he is very infatuated with. After losing his locker at Mighty Micks Gymnasium and humiliating tongue lashing from Mick, Rocky feels like he's a no good bum. But then the boisterous, self-promoting and legendary showman boxing champ Apollo Creed gives a Rocky a life changing opportunity. A shot at the champ. Rocky, at first reluctant to accept, decides to go it alone against the "Master Of Disaster". But after a tear-jerking conversation with Mick, Rocky enlists the help of his former grizzled trainer and decides to put his heart and dedication into the upcoming bout. As his romance blossoms with Adrian, especially after a memorable after Thanksgiving date, which is just "Thursday" to Rocky, the Italian Stallion realizes there's more at stake than just the belt. After adrenaline inducing training scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat accompanied by inspiring music, by genius composer Bill Conti, Rocky is ready for the Main Event. All he wants is to go the distance with Creed, which no fighter can claim to have met that feat, and not just be another "bum" from the neighborhood. The final fight scene, in my opinion, was the best in the entire series. Filled with viscous hooks and jaw-breaking uppercuts, it's a sequence of such exhilarating action you cannot take your eyes off it. A case of the brawler vs. the boxer, by far one cinemas best fighting scenes and most climatic endings ever illustrated on the big screen.
Rocky himself is one of the main reasons why this film is so successful. People of any background can appreciate his desire and commitment to be the best. His character traits we can all relate too and gives us an emotional connection with him. He inspires and makes you realize your own potential to "Go The Distance".