Yo Adrian!! This is a classic!!

Rating: 10/10 (23 July 2004)

Sly Stallones greatest ever film! The sequels may have been more simplistic, forgetting that the boxing part was actually a sub-plot, but they are all enjoyable. This film is the most meaningful though. The relationship between Rocky and Adrian takes centre stage and despite the un-realistic story with respect of the boxing, this is more engaging, this is basically an against the odds movie, not designed for realism but to have elements of realism in it. The script is good and Sly hasn't written anything nearly as good since. What makes this film so successful however are the fantastic performances. Stallone is excellent as Rocky, its a fantastic performance right down to the way Rocky moves and the mannerisms, while Talia Shire is equally good as Adrian. The scenes between Sly and Talia are movie magic. Burgess Meredith is also excellent and there is a fantastic turn form Burt Young as Adrian's abusive brother Paulie. This isn't mindless escapism like the sequels, its pure drama. *****