a one of a kind, old-fashioned classic

Rating: Null/10 (14 March 2002)

Triumphant, undeniably moving story that sets a model for years to come. Stallone is perfectly cast as an unknown, two-bit street boxer who gets a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to face the world heavyweight champion (Weathers). He's written off and expected to be the latest in a long line of losers, but with the help of his no-nonsense trainer (a powerhouse Meredith) and his own burning desire, he makes it his mission to try and shock the world. A simple but involving underdog/beating the odds story that's exciting, convincing, and without a doubt unforgettable. One of those rare movies that's worthy of all its praise and deserves to be called a classic. ****