boy, is this one dated

Rating: Null/10 (2 February 2004)

Stallone was the ultimate anti-Russian actor of the 1980s (see also "Rambo III"). Since we're at peace now, some of his films have become rather embarrassing. "Rocky IV" is obviously a case of "us" against "them," and by the final reel, even the Russians are rooting for Rocky the all-American hero. Very strange indeed, especially given the series' roots in serious drama.
A Russian friend once noticed this film on my DVD shelf (I must confess that I bought it for completeness). I put on a grim face and said to her, "I'll never forgive you b****rds for killing Apollo Creed!" Thankfully, she knew that I was making fun of the movie, and not Russians.
The only highlight? Apollo, of course, who steals the middle entries in this series. His speeches about the pain of aging and losing the title still resonate. Note, however, that at one point he is interrupted by the appearance of a robot. A robot. Jesus.
You can keep the music score, too.