All six Rocky
movies are finally available on Blu-ray in one beautiful set! Multi-talented writer and actor, Sylvester
Stallone, sold the rights for the film for $350,000 on one condition – that he would be allowed to star in the film.
It was a decision I’m sure the studio executives struggled with since at that time Stallone only had a few
movies on his resume, but it was a wise decision for both Stallone and the studio since it not only launched his career,
but also made millions for the studio.
Rocky [1976] was written by struggling actor Sylvester Stallone and
directed by John G. Avildsen, winner of three Oscars [Best Director, Best Film Editing and Best Picture] and receiving ten
Oscar nominations altogether… Rocky was a heavyweight of a movie that still stands strong today. For
those of you who haven’t seen the movie, and don’t plan on seeing the movie because you think it’s another
sports movie that you can’t relate to – consider this a slap in the face… go see it! Each
Rocky movie is so much more than a sports movie, in fact I would say it’s a love story/sports movie with an amazing
story that everyone can relate to. Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers and Burgess
Meredith all give Oscar worthy performances in Rocky and every Rocky movie that followed.
Rocky II [1979]: Directed
by Sylvester Stallone himself, Rocky finds himself in a rematch against Apollo Creed [Carl Weathers]. Very
similar to the original, Rocky II shines in every way possible. Each Rocky movie uses the same formula,
but when it works it works. Amazing workout montages, stunning choreographed boxing sequences, and incredible
performances makes Rocky II another undisputed winner!
Rocky III [1982]: Mr. T and Hulk Hogan, two strange choices
for appearances in a Rocky movie, make unbelievable cameos in the movie. The storyline remains true to
the series; the underdog triumphs yet again over the impossible. Each performance is just as good as any
other Rocky movie.
Rocky IV [1985]: Quite possibly the most adrenaline rushing Rocky movie to date, Rocky IV delivers and it
delivers hard. In fact, Rocky IV is probably tied for my favorite in the series. Dolph
Lundgren co-stars in the performance of his lifetime, the chemistry between him and Sly are remarkable and his performance
is believable and entertaining. Incredible 80’s training montages, unbelievable boxing action, and
just a perfect example of how to make a boxing movie.
Rocky V [1990]: Sage Stallone [Sly’s own son]
and Tommy Morrison [heavyweight professional boxer] join the cast in Rocky V. Sylvester Stallone steps
down as the role of director in this mediocre, but still exciting, Rocky story. I think the main drawback
to this film would have to be the change between the characters and some performances by the new cast including Tommy Morrison;
Tommy Morrison gives a weak performance as Tommy Gunn. I thought it was time for a change in the Balboa
household and the Rocky series, so the changes seen in the movie were for the most part appreciated, but it may have been
a little too much to swallow at one time [brain damage, going bankrupt, retiring, etc.].
Rocky Balboa [2006]: A movie I thought I’d never seen in my generation, Rocky makes a triumphant return
in Rocky Balboa. Geraldine Hughes takes on the role of Marie, a character seen for a few minutes in the
very fist Rocky movie, and professional boxer Antonio Tarver is Rocky’s nemesis Mason ‘The Line’ Dixon.
I thought it was really tasteful to see that Adrian had passed, because if she were still around I feel the believability
of the movie would have been lost since she was always the reason why Rocky would retire in each and every Rocky movie –
she never would have allowed him to box again because of his age and condition seen in Rocky V. I can
only think of two negatives while reviewing this movie: First, Antonia Tarver’s performance as Mason ‘The Line’
Dixon was underwhelming and could have been a lot better… second, the fact that his physical condition that made
him retire from boxing in Rocky V was never mentioned during the movie. Other than those two reasons,
this was a highly entertaining movie that allows us fans to say goodbye to one of the sports greats on a high note.
The bonus seventh disc includes loads of extras: Feeling Strong Now game, In the Ring: Three-Part Making-Of Documentary,
Behind the Scenes, Video Commentary with Sylvester Stallone, Trailers and TV Spots… and so much more that will keep
you busy for hours upon hours!
