Let's hear it for the Italian Stallion

Rating: 8/10 (16 May 2010)

"Rocky" is perhaps the definitive boxing movie. Sure, "Raging Bull" seems like the most obvious candidate but the boxing aspect in that film ultimately seems secondary to the interpersonal drama. As far as boxing movies go (or sports movies in general, for that matter) "Rocky" is a legitimate contender for the top spot.
The film tells the story of Rocky Balboa, a small time boxer who gets a once in a lifetime opportunity to face the heavyweight champ. The odds are stacked against him but he's committed to do what it takes to go the distance.
"Rocky" was Sylvester Stallone's brainchild. He wrote the screenplay and he also ended up playing the title character. In the end, he was rewarded with Oscar nominations in both capacities. But he didn't do it alone.
The cast is a strong one. As mentioned, Sly nabbed an Oscar nomination but so did castmates Burgess Meredith, Burt Young & Talia Shire. While none of them walked away with an Oscar their nominations were all well deserved. And let's not forget Carl Weathers as Rocky's opponent, the flamboyant champ Apollo Creed.
I admit that I was genuinely surprised by the quality of Sly's writing. The characterization is solid and the storyline nicely balances sports and romance. Perhaps most importantly, the script has the feel of authenticity. Throw in John G. Avildsen's Oscar-winning direction & the iconic Oscar-nominated song "Gonna Fly Now" and you've got an impressive combination of elements. So impressive, it turns out, that the film landed the Best Picture Oscar among some heady competition.
I haven't seen any of the film's sequels and I probably never will since the IMDb user ratings seem to suggest a steady decline in quality. Nevertheless, regardless of what has followed for Stallone, the original "Rocky" still stands as a classic.