Rock Solid!

Rating: 10/10 (9 May 2016)

Rocky (1976): Dir: John G. Avildsen / Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers, Burgess Meredith: The ultimate underdog film stars Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa, a humble boxer in training who will receive his big break when a chance challenge is sent his way. Talia Shire plays Adrian Pennino, his love interest and sister to his best friend. She is shy and works at a pet store while at home she slaves for her unappreciative brother. Burt Young plays Paulie, her brother who works at a meat factory where he has Rocky trading punches with hanging slabs of meat. Carl Weathers plays boxing champion Apollo Creed who issues the challenge when his latest opponent backs out due to an injury. Burgess Meredith plays Mickey, who trains boxers at the gym and takes on Rocky when the challenge is issued. The result is a film with a lot of heart and a protagonist who works hard and has a good heart. Directed by John G. Avildsen who previously won acclaim with Save the Tiger. The climatic boxing match is energizing and brutal but given the appropriate conclusion. This is not about winning the bout but about winning respect for oneself as when Rocky calls out to Adrian because within all the cheers she is the most important thing. This is a film for the hard working underdog who desires to be a winner and has the determination and drive to get there. Score: 10 / 10