A beautiful, touching and personal story of an underdog. An all time classic.

Up until this week there was a Sylvester Stallone sized gap in my viewing history, as I somehow had never seen the triple Oscar winning (with 7 more nominations) film that rocketed him to stardom. I finally sought this out because I saw an interview Stallone did on BBC back in 1977. In the interview, he described his background and motivations. He was well spoken and as an aspiring screenwriter, I found it incredibly relatable and inspiring. So, with that as the backdrop, does the almost 50 year-old classic hold up? Absolutely*! The story is tight as can be, with interesting characters, strong dialogue, and, of course, an iconic theme song. Stallone absolutely sells the role. One of my favorites scenes was probably when Mickey comes to Rocky's apartment to offer his services. Just an excellent set-up and Stallone delivers a raw/powerful emotional performance. I was also surprised at how funny the movie was at times, albeit always with a dry, almost Coen brothers humor. I'm not even sure how intentional it was, but something like Rocky asking Paulie half a dozen times if Adrian knew he was coming on Thanksgiving was hilarious. Then there's the ending, which even though I knew the result was coming (hard to avoid spoilers this old), the movie still surprised me with the execution in the final moments. The way the announcer and fight result is so out of focus to almost be lost is such an effective punchline. Just quality stuff. *There is one exception. A component of the film that absolutely will not hold up for modern audiences is Rocky and Adrian's first date (specifically once they get back to his place), which watches like an uncomfortable compilation of problematic male behaviors of yesteryear. It's crazy to think there was a time when the line, "I'm going to kiss you, but you don't have to kiss me back", delivered while Rocky has Adrian literally cornered between his arms, was considered to be any kind of romantic/acceptable.

Success is not about winning, it is about standing up after every time you fail and to never quit!!

I watched this as a kid and over time I pretty much forgot how it went. Apart from popular culture references in other media, I pretty much went in not knowing anything. And I'm surprised how much heart is in this film. What a great character Rocky is. Sure some things won't go over well in movies nowadays but he's a product of his time and environment. He had every chance to become nothing more than a thug but he kept dreaming. Even when people started giving up on him. He also seems involved in his community and taking care of people within it. Ok.the final fight is coming up between him and Creed. I'm sure Rocky will win this...

The original Rocky is iconic, and launched one of the most influential cinema franchises. Yet, this first installment is far subdued from what Rocky would become; delivering a smart edgy drama. It’s a quintessential populist story: down-and-out “everyman” Rocky Balboa gets a shot to go the distance with world heavyweight champion Apollo Creed in the Bicentennial Super Battle fight on New Year’s Day. Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, and Burgess Meredith all give strong performances (all Academy Award nominated). And, composer Bill Conti crafts a brilliant score that carries the soul of the film. Despite a few dated pieces of ‘70s style filmmaking, Rocky holds up as an extraordinary inspirational drama.