The iconic boxing movie came in 1976, written by and starring Sylvester Stallone as a down-on-his-luck boxer who gets a shot at the world heavyweight title. John G. Avildsen directs and Talia Shire, Burt Young, Burgess Meredith and Carl Weathers co star.
Yes, we all know Rocky. Duh-duh-duuuuhhh, duh-duh-duuuuuuhhh. Running up and down the stairs. It's Stallone boxing. Big deal, right? Well, I guess it was, or it wouldn't be on the list. We've been able to come up with pretty good reasons why every movie we've seen so far is on the list, and "Archetypical Underdog Sports Movie" fits pretty well.
I had seen it before -- at least I think I did, that Rocky marathon at bible camp was a long time ago and kind of a blur -- so I wasn't exactly jazzed for it. But you know what? It was good. Stallone is great in the role that made him what he is. The story is tough to beat -- Rocky is a true Everyman, just a stupid guy with a really big heart, lots of love for the homely girl next door and the drive to make something incredible out of a once-in-a-lifetime chance. The supporting actors all do well -- Burgess Meredith particularly is great. The movie itself is very well made, considering the budget constraints -- great Philadelphia locations, rousing score, the whole deal.
Bottom line, it's a classic. If you haven't seen it, you owe it to yourself.
(See this post if you're confused why I'm reviewing movies.)