Still, Rocky is a modern classic and is arguably Stallone's best film. That disc was presented in non-anamorphic widescreen and, at the time, I thought it looked pretty good. Despite the special edition sporting a new anamorphic widescreen transfer, the results are a bit disappointing. The biggest drawback is the considerable print wear that, while often going by unnoticed, can at times be extremely distracting. Colors are usually strong, with the reds of the ring ropes and boxing gloves especially vibrant, although fading of certain hues also seems apparent.
Black level is mediocre throughout, with poor shadow definition.
Detail is a bit on the soft side and film grain is quite visible, but the image matches the tone of the film very well. When the film was produced, it could definitely be considered a low budget production, and unfortunately time has simply taken its toll on Rocky over the years. 5.1 surround for the initial DVD release and have included the same track for this release as well. But unlike the original release, the new special edition also includes the film's original theatrical mono soundtrack. The remixed 5.1 track is really good when it can be, yet is still hampered by its low-budget origins.