Stallone Fits Rocky Like a Glove

Rating: 9/10 (16 November 2009)

Studly Philadelphia boxer Sylvester Stallone (as Rocky Balboa) supplements his meager earnings by strong-arming for the local loan shark. But, all that may change when "Bicentennial fever" (The United States of America's 200th birthday celebration) gives 30-year-old "Rocky" a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship crown. While philosophizing about life, and training for the proverbial climax, Mr. Stallone finds "Lady Luck" taking the form of timid Talia Shire (as Adrian), mousey pet shop clerk and sister of boozy guy pal Burt Young (as Paulie).
According to the DVD box, "It's the film that inspired a nation - and won the 1976 Best Picture 'Oscar'! Audiences and critics alike cheered this American success story of an 'everyman' triumphing over all odds. Featuring a dynamic musical score, a thrilling fight sequence, and four 'Oscar'-nominated performances, this rousing crowd-pleaser will send spirits soaring. Fighting for love, glory, and self-respect, 'Rocky' scores an exultant knockout!"
People still wonder how "Rocky" beat films like "Network", "Taxi Driver", and "All the President's Men" to win the Best Picture "Academy Award" for 1976. After the nominations, voters are given five choices. There are no further run-offs. "Rocky" was the only old-fashioned love story in the group, it had a "Little Engine That Could" reputation in Hollywood, and many people just wanted "Rocky" to win. After seeing the movie, the picture may become clearer.
The film's inspirational highlight has Stallone triumphantly ending a run up the daunting steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with the soundtrack blaring Bill Conti's disco-flavored "Gonna Fly Now!" (which ran up to the #1 spot on the pop music charts). Starting the morning with five raw eggs, no sex, dirty sweatpants, and disco music can do something for a man, obviously. Heavyweight actors Burgess Meredith (as Mickey Goldmill), Thayer David (as George Jergens), and Carl Weathers (as Apollo Creed) hit career highs.
********* Rocky (11/21/76) John G. Avildsen ~ Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Burgess Meredith