Rocky Balboa

Just the way Rocky Balboa likes it, this film goes up against all conceivable odds and somehow succeeds. The obstacles are substantial - even if you take the "how in the world can anyone be expected to buy a man Stallone's age as able to hold his own against the heavyweight champ?" issue out of the equation. Does the audience even care about this guy any more? Can Talia Shire's absence be compensated for? Will Rocky's relationship with his son be even remotely plausible? Can the bombast that is Bill Conti's score, not to mention the tunes penned by Sly's brother Frank Stallone, be endured for another hour and 42 minutes? It really is amazing that, with so much seemingly working against it, this film is a pleasure to watch. Yes, it walks the same well-worn road every other "Rocky" film has, both literally and figuratively. Yes, there's no way to replace Burgess Meredith, and his absence has been felt keenly since "Rocky III." But Rocky and his son seem believable, his burgeoning relationship with Little Marie feels real (and she's no young cookie, thankfully), and the climactic fight is emotionally satisfying in that "Rocky" way - you know, that "man, I wish real heavyweight fights were this much fun to watch!" way. They throw more punches in one round than most heavyweight fights see in 15. Yes, there are problems; the reigning heavyweight champ is very two-dimensional (and would never be as universally hated as he is portrayed, regardless of his demeanor - lots of people love to cheer for self-absorbed thugs), the commentary by Jim Lampley and others is chock full of cliches, and it's all just so predictable. But, in spite of all that, I really enjoyed watching it - simply because Stallone has created an imminently likeable character in Rocky Balboa, one you can't help but care about and cheer for. Let's hope what Rocky says to Paulie at the end is true, though - let's hope the beast that is the "Rocky" franchise is out of Stallone's system. I doubt he could pull this off again.

The Rocky Balboa DVD was in perfect condition as described by the seller. I am very pleased and look forward to doing business with this seller in the future!

Former heavyweight champion Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) steps out of retirement and back into the ring, pitting himself against a new rival decades after his initial glory. When a computer simulated boxing match declares Rocky Balboa the victor over current champion Mason "The Line" Dixon, the legendary fighter's passion and spirit are reignited. But when his desire to fight in small, regional competitions is trumped by promoters calling for a rematch of the cyber-fight, Balboa must weigh the mental and physical risks of a high profile exhibition match against his need to be in the ring. This movie makes you smile and wins your heart.

Its Balboa coming back, no its Creed, now its Balboa...no...its Part 6 to this never ending saga!

And you know what? Rocky Balboa is probably the best one since Rocky II. What a relief it is to know that Stallone can make a credible movie at the end of his career. Who knows, may be Stallone is just getting warmed up... Rocky 7????

this film is not without flaw . it gets so much so right though , it's not even about the fight . we all know the ROCKY films have not been RAGING BULL from the get go . the first film was a tremendously uplifting story about the spirit of an individual brawler who never would have prevailed giving and getting such superhuman punishment . if MR. TARVER'S character were to actually box MR. STALLONE'S character , it would last moments . it wouldn't even happen in exhibition . it's a mistake to observe this film as if it were an approximation of CINDERELLA MAN . you forgive the deep dark dye job if you understand that this film is about maturity . between the first film and this picture there were a lot of fun movies that were guilty pleasures more often than not . fun to watch over and over because of their implausibe and rote formula of good verses bad or proud or unfair . this rousing picture serves as a proper bookend to the first great chapter in a character saga . one in which we don't have to see the central character aged by make up but rather actual time itself . STALLONE'S maturity informs an individual so right and real that the only significant flaw is that he manages to go several rounds with the young boxer . by surrounding himself with an outstanding group of actors young and old . by putting so much truth into the lions share of what occurs on screen (in word and deed) . i feel he made the finest ROCKY picture yet . after its' fashion , nearly as satisfying and thrilling as MILLION DOLLAR BABY . great motion picture making . great entertainment . the coda that was needed .

I have always been a fan of the first two Rocky films, as they portrayed a more realistic story. Rocky III, IV, and V were only for commercial purpose and as such lost the spirit of the original two. Now with Rocky Balboa we can enjoy one last time the original character and story. I now view the Rocky franchise as a trilogy of Rocky I,II and Rocky Balboa/III.
On the whole a well written and touching story about life and the pains of this world. We not only sympathize with the title character, but all other minor roles. His son trying to make it on his own, the single insecure mother, Pauly and his guilt, and Mason the champion. This movie has it all. Good job!!!

Well it's hard not to like the Rocky saga in general, although I could very easily have done without Rocky IV & V. This final episode is basically a sentimental recapturing of a sorts of the original Rocky film. He's now clearly "WAY" past his prime and it's tough to even look at him frankly. As another reviewer very correctly stated no boxing commission anywhere would sanction such a fight (exhibition or not). However, in true overcome-all-odds fashion Rocky somehow makes it happen. I won't give away the results of the match because frankly the official results are unimportant and not what he's after. He's after validation just one more time. Validation that he still matters . . . that the fire that still burns within him means something. Adrian believed in him and he now needs to believe in himself just one last time. Is it a great film? Nope. However, it's a warm sentimental film of remembrance not only of his journey and saga but of particular meaning to many of us baby boomer's who are aging and would like just one more moment in the sun before we head off to the rocking chair. Rocky's "rock" was Adrian and he pays beautiful and appropriate tribute to her as the one person who did believe in him unconditionally. The moral is to never give up and believe in yourself regardless of age or who says you can't do something. Thanks Mr. Stallone for making this final film. It was a far nicer ending to the Rocky series than Rocky V as it very warmly closed the circle of magic. Thanks for the memories.

This will be short: This film is only one micro-millimeter away from being just as good as the original "Rocky". It is poignant, well-written, very well acted, and, if you'll forgive the boxing terminology, it packs quite a punch.

Folks, when I first heard that Stallone was doing yet another "Rocky" sequel, my first response was, "He's GOT to be kidding, right???" I just couldn't believe it, and I thought that it was a sure sign that Stallone's career really was over. I was certainly sad to think that, because I've always been a big fan.

This is one of those very rare occasions that I was well and truly wrong about something. This is a very good film, and deserves to be given credit as being what it is: The best of the "Rocky" sequels. Stallone's writing and acting, as well as his direction of this film, haven't been this good in some time.

If you loved the original "Rocky", and you haven't already done so, SEE THIS FILM!

You'll thank me later.

Rocky Balboa is the final installment of the Rocky films and boy was I disappointed! I just hated this film, Adrian is dead, Rocky is working in an Italian resturant, he is estranged from his son, and he tries to make an ill-fated comeback in the boxing world. This film was praised so much by critcs and fans so I thought, well I've seen all the Rocky films - why not give the last one a try? I remember watching this in the theatre and just dreading every moment. Stallone looks miserable (nice plastic surgery, not!), the writing is absolutely corny and stale and the premise is depressing. I really tried to like this film but I felt something was missing. Stick to the first 5 Rocky films, those are worth every penny.

Another Rocky flic! Just the thought made me hesitant but after viewing I was completely satisfied. Rocky Balboa has aged and lost his wife to female cancer. In addition to that, he has to contend with his also aging brother-in-law, Paulie, and his son who seems highly embarrassed by Rocky's existence and presence. After a virtual boxing match on television between Rocky and the reigning heavy weight champion, Mason (the line)Dixon, which favored Rocky, Dixon's promoters urge an exhibition match between the two. Rocky trains and puts his heart and soul into this event, which becomes the catalyst that mends his relationships with Paulie, his son, and most importantly with himself. He also befriends a former neighborhood delinquent, who is now grown up and raising a teenage son by herself. This provides the impetus that allows Rocky to finally put Adriane's death to rest. The film brings back characters and the actors who portrayed them from the original Rocky film of 1976. All in all, Rocky triumphs and obtains closure to the many situations that have plagued him over the years. He puts his demons to rest and finally becomes content with both his life today and who he is.

Here's an incontrovertible: There is no state boxing commission in existence that would grant a boxing license to a sixty-year-old. And there is no heavyweight champ--no matter how lousy his reputation is--that would agree to get into the ring with a fighter of six decades, exhibition or no exhibition. Sorry, but I just couldn't get past the obvious before suspending my disbelief while watching ROCKY BALBOA, the final (we think) installment of the dearly beloved Rocky franchise.

(Had this fight been sanctioned in some foreign country that wouldn't object to the massive risk involved--say the Philippines, or one of the kingdoms on the Arabian Peninsula--the plot would have been more believable, but I digress.)

Sylvester Stallone returns in the role he was born to play, only now he's sixty, a lonely widower, and has a son (Milo Ventimiglia) who resents living under his father's famous shadow. Rocky, while pining away at his wife's grave, realizes he still has a burning rage inside him that must be exorcised--and only a boxing match will do the trick. Because the video games (or whatever they're called these days) have him actually beating the current reigning champ, Mason Dixon (great fighting name, played by a stoic Antonio Tarner), why not have life imitate. . .recreation? And the rest is standard Rocky fare, from the training music to the raw eggs. The fight. . .um, yeah, okay.

Sly is Sly, hair color or no hair color, yet this time he is curiously articulate and able to wax philosophical at the drop of a hat. I kind of liked that. Burt Young must be tired of playing a drunken idiot. And the fight. . .um, yeah, okay. But what raised the reviewing stakes of ROCKY BALBOA in the eyes of this reviewer from two to three stars was the film's ending, which was an impressive tribute to Rocky the movie icon. After all, this is the last installment of the Rocky franchise. . .isn't it?
--D. Mikels, Author, Walk-On

Great movie - inspiring and a fitting ending to the Rocky series. Look for the movie as part of the collector's set - might save you a few $$.

This movie is by far a better way to end the classic boxing franchise and a welcome return to form as well.

It's not the best in the series, it's entertaining and well acted however unlike some of the other Rocky movie (1,2+3) this one doesn't have, in my opinion, a bad guy whom you really want Rocky to beat. Apollo Creed was cocky but a good bad guy and Mr. T was just fantastic, great attitude, memorable quotes and believable character. In this one Mason 'The Line' Dixon is arrogant but I don't think to the point of abnoxiousness. Not enough of an error to take this film down a star or two.

Great ending, even though Rocky lost his final fight in a metaphorical way he kinda won. Think about it, Rocky will always be a winner to all of us.

I loved it. I waited six or seven years for this Rocky masterpiece to come out, and it was all worth it. I love when they play the original theme during his training and running up the stairs with Punchie. (His dog.) I loved all the Adrian and Mickey flashbacks. I also loved the fight toward the end with Rocky and Mason, showing that Rocky could still go toe-to-toe, so people who want him to win, you might be disappointed, but hard-core fans who love Rocky and see that he still has it, you'll love it. Also, I thought the fight was too short, but it was still great. I highly recommend ROCKY BALBOA!!!

I couldn't find this DVD in the store - it was shipped fast through mail and was an appreciated gift to my son-in-law

Rocky Balboa is a good movie with a good message and is safe to watch (free of nudity and sex scenes, plus violence is reduced to the sport)

The Bottom Line:

Suprisingly just about everyone, Stallone decided to make a real movie with Rocky Balboa instead of the cartoons that had preceeded it; the only sequel that is true in spirit to the original, it can be a bit slow in the first half but it's a worthy film and a fine capper to the series.

This movie is arguably the best one in the series, minus the original. It's not about the aging Rocky that's been overexposed by the American public. No, it's the story of a former boxer whose nostalgia for his former days of glory haunt his every move. His son doesn't understand, people from his neighborhood don't understand: Rocky is older, wiser, sadder but he still has a little bit of his former self there. In fact, he's still the same person, it's just that he doesn't move as quickly. But the movie glides gracefully through the timeless story of holding onto your dreams forever.

This is an awesome movie that makes you realize that anything is possible as long as you have hope.

After the terrible "Rocky 5",some 16 years earlier,I had given up on Rocky sequels.There had been rumors of"Rocky 6"circulating for years.I was adamant that after"Rocky 5",I wouldn't pay money to see another stupid"Rocky"picture.And yet after 16 years,I kinda missed Rocky,I decided to see the film.I left the theater quite impressed and moved;Stallone put the heart back in Rocky.No more cartoonish bad guys,no more rehashing,no more let downs;This was one of the best Rocky films in years.It was actually paying tribute to the character,and the many memories Stallone gave us as Rocky,some good,some bad.It was nice seeing the return of old Characters like "Spider Rico"and"Marie From The Atomic Hoagie Shop".It was also nice to see Burt Young,as A different Pauley.As A man who felt resentment,for the way he treated Rocky and Adrian.The only things that hurt this movie,was that Adrian had died,and it sucked not having Talia Shire in this sequel.Plus it was pretty far fetched seeing A 60 something Stallone climbing into the ring.But the heart and memories makes you enjoy this Picture.A good ending,to A great Character.

Rocky Balboa is the Amazing follow up to Rocky V in which Sly returns to play the aging boxer who is now mourning the death of his beloved wife Adrian and trying to keep his relationship with his son strong.He also has Paulie around alot as Paulie is now the closest person.Alot of characters from the Original Rocky are around including Spider Rico and Lil Marie.Also returning to help him train for an Exhibition fight to prove he can still do it is Duke (Apollo's old trainer).The Acting and Story is Strong and it's a defintite crowd pleaser.Stallone is better than ever!

Rocky Balboa is pretty much what you'd expect. Rocky's retired from boxing and running a little Italian restaurant where he gives fellow former boxers free meals and entertains the customers with stories from his days as the champ. But Adrian's dead, and Rocky's living in the past, and their son is tired of living in his famous father's shadow.

The current champ, Mason Dixon, is suffering from a bad reputation. He's had nothing but knockouts, so boxing fans are complaining that he's only taking easy fights and that he's not a "real" champ.

A computer simulation fight between Rocky and Mason Dixon that shows Rocky winning brings everything to a head. Rocky wants one last fight, and Mason Dixon's promoters want an exhibition match between the two to shore up Mason Dixon's reputation.

There are a lot of flashbacks, of course, and the training scenes are similar to Rocky IV, contrasting Rocky's working-man methods with Mason Dixon's high-tech. And we get the raw eggs and beef carcasses, too, just because.

And there's a new girlfriend for Rocky, to add a little hope for the future for him, since this really has got to be his last fight.

It's not nearly as good as the first movie, of course, but it's a much better end to the series than Rocky V.

Everything that made the best "Rocky" movies ("Rocky," "Rocky III," and "Rocky IV") blissfully entertaining appears conspicuously absent in Sylvester Stallone's new movie "Rocky Balboa" (** out of ****), reputedly the last Harri for the "Rocky" character. Chiefly, "Rocky Balboa" lacks spontaneity and surprises. Indeed, actor/athletic Sylvester Stallone looks--for a man in his sixties--like he could go the distance in the ring, but writer/director Sylvester Stallone virtually recycles the original without anything that made it Academy Awarding material. In "Rocky," Stallone created a charming Brando-esquire misfit, surrounded by other larger-than-life misfits, who slugged his way to the top of the American dream. Each sequel eroded the title character's charisma, and you knew that "Rocky" could never go down for the count. Worse, Stallone's trademark aphoristic dialogue yields few quotable lines. Another element woefully amiss is a solid villain. A third of what made "Rocky," "Rocky III," and "Rocky IV" engaging on a visceral level were the opponents. Carl Weathers established the baseline for Rocky's rivals in the first two "Rocky" movies, while a pugnacious Mr. T raised the bar in "Rocky III" and Goliath-like Dolph Lundgren took it one punch further in "Rocky IV." Not surprisingly, "Rocky Balboa" should take the bad taste of "Rocky V" out of the mouth of "Rocky" fans. "Rocky V" featured the least intimidating contender of the series. Unfortunately, as much as "Rocky Balboa" surpasses "Rocky V," Rocky's latest adversary is bland to his boxers. Mason Dixon emerges as more vulnerable than vicious. You won't care if Rocky beats him to a pulp, gets beaten to a pulp himself, or they fight to a draw in "Rocky Balboa." This painfully predictable punching bag of clichés never generates the blood, sweat, and cheers of the original.

Anybody who remembers the forgettable "Rocky V" knows that the doctors warned Rocky that if he ever climbed back into the ring that he could possibly die from one blow to the brain. In "Rocky Balboa," Rocky's physical ailments never impair his potential. Aside from a brief bout with the Pennsylvania boxing commission, Rocky obtains a license to box again. During the first hour of the action, our world-weary hero revisits his past on a sight-seeing trip to his old stomping grounds where he grew up and met his wife Adrian. Adrian has followed in the footsteps of more memorable "Rocky" characters, such as Apollo Creed and actor Burgess Meredith's Mickey Goldmill. We learn in "Rocky Balboa" that Adrian died from cancer back in the 1990s, and Rocky supports himself with a Philadelphia restaurant named after her. He recounts his pugilistic exploits for the entertainment of his customers. Meanwhile, in the ring, the latest heavyweight boxing champ Mason "the Line" Dixon (ex-light heavyweight champ Antonio Tarver) finds himself tangled up in the ropes of his own troubles. After 30 knock-out fights, the undefeated Dixon cannot find anybody to go toe-to-toe with who can match his merciless barrage of blows. Worse, just about everybody in the fight game hates him. Sure, Dixon sounds like a terrific adversary, but Stallone gives Tarver nothing to do or say that makes his character remotely dangerous. He never attains the flamboyance of the egotistical Apollo Creed in the first three "Rocky" epics. He doesn't present a challenge like the sadistic Clubber Lang in "Rocky III." Physically, he is no match for towering Ivan Drago in "Rocky IV." Instead, Mason Dixie emerges more as misunderstood than merciless.

During his tour of his old neighborhood, Rocky runs into a local girl from his past. Marie (as played by the original "Marie" Geraldine Hughes) told him to bug off in the original when he offered her advice about her friends. Marie and Rocky get friendly this time around and the ex-champ shows an interest in her fatherless son. Unfortunately, the romance between Marie and Rocky ignites no sparks because the chemistry between them is wrong. At the same time, Rocky's own son Rocky, Jr. (Milo Ventimiglia who plays Peter Petrelli on the NBC/SCI-FI Channel TV show "Heroes") has his own selfish issues. Rocky overshadows him. At one point, Rocky confides in his boorish brother-in-law Paulie (Burt Young of "The Killer Elite") that he still has his own unresolved issues. Paulie thinks Rocky has lost his mind when he proposes to put the gloves back on for one more bout. The inevitable fight between Rocky and Mason Dixon occurs as a result of an ESPN computer generated boxing match that prompts Mason's managers to approach Rocky about a match. Mason Dixie derides it as a publicity stunt, but Rocky sees it as a place in the sun. "Rocky Balboa" boasts too much soul and not enough heart. Cue "Rocky" composer Bill Conti to bring on the music from the original as Rocky jogs around Philadelphia in his sweats training.

Sylvester Stallone looks more muscle-bound than ever, but he does not have the underdog charisma of the best "Rocky" movies. Clearly, Stallone has gone into the ring one time too often. The Rocky character has never looked so out of place and his actions do little to endear him. Stallone's worst mistake in "Rocky Balboa" was sacrificing Adrian from his screenplay than his obnoxious, cigar-chomping brother-in-law Paulie. The first hour of the new "Rocky" drags and the last forty minutes doesn't make up for it. Stallone stages the boxing match without flair. Amazingly, the hand-held photography doesn't add energy to the fight. Despite some moments that remain too far and few between, "Rocky Balboa" has no clout to flout.

This movie wasn't bad. Sly is getting old; he had some fat on him in this film. It was said in the commentary that Sly wanted the boxing match to be realistic and not cinematic. That's why Mike Tyson was in the film. A couple of famous HBO Boxing Ring Announcers, such as Jim Lampley and Max Kellerman, hosted the fight.
It's too bad that Adrian was dead. Rocky and Paulie got in an arguement over Rocky's memories of love with Adrian. Rocky manages a restaurant call Adrian's. There's a sports cast comparing Rocky to the current champ Mason "The Line" Dixon. The movie basically gives a reason why the two should fight and the movie ends with a happy ending. Rocky tells the champ " It's not over until it's over." It's fun watching Rocky train and this time he lifts weights heavier than I've ever seen him lift before. At the end of the fight, Rocky was bloody and beat up and everyone was yelling "Rocky! Rocky! Rocky!" Fortunately Rocky didn't become champ again because he's too old but Rocky went the distance.

What exactly is age, aside from a number?

For far too long, I have read so many endless attacks against Harrison Ford and Sylvester Stallone simply because they both dared to revisit characters they immortalized in the 1980s. I will never again lend a second's credence to such shameless nitpicking. Sylvester Stallone may very well be a sixty year old man, but he pulled off "Rocky Balboa" in a profoundly moving and realistic manner and subsequently transformed this prior skeptic into a BIG-TIME believer. This, far and beyond any reasonable contention, is the true and respectful swan song the "Rocky" saga has long deserved.

Wisely ignoring the unsightly plot points that were introduced in "Rocky V," this more recent story unfolds with a highly publicized "virtual boxing" match that pits the long-retired Rocky against current heavyweight titleholder Mason Dixon. When Rocky scores the duke in this particular fantasy bout, Dixon retaliates by challenging Balboa to a one-on-one publicly televised 10-round exhibition. Everybody, including Rocky's own son, steadfastly dismisses the idea. But Rocky, who has always ever worked best when the odds were stacked against him, agrees to face Dixon. What ensues, amidst the rudimentary training regimen we've all seen Rocky endure throughout the five previous films, is a staggeringly heartfelt and engaging character study that very nearly rivals that which was introduced in John Avildsen's groundbreaking 1976 original.

Among the most notable are some admittedly touching moments with Rocky and Paulie as they revisit the Italian Stallion's love for Adrian who, as many prior reviewers here have already noted, is no longer part of the narrative fold. These scenes, along with a certain pep-talk Rocky gives his defiantly selfish son at the film's halfway mark, really helped sell the story's realism. Stallone made me genuinely feel for these people, a feat that I and many others had previously doubted he was capable of achieving. His screenplay very literally came out of left field and opened my eyes to the plain and simple fact that he still has what it takes. There was not a single point throughout the entire film where I was deliberately thinking about his age. A person's age, as I've already alluded to, should never be a consideration. You're as young as you feel and, if you happen to be in the phenomenal shape Stallone is in for a man of his years, I say more power to ya'!

There really isn't anything more to be said. "Rocky Balboa" is a more than worthy addition to this extraordinary series of motion pictures. You would be hard pressed to find another film more deserving of a purchase. Make no mistake when I say, it delivers a definitive knockout!

I wasn't sure what to expect with the news that a new Rocky movie was in the works. I thought to myself "Well, maybe this is just TOO much and the series should have stayed in the past where it belongs". BUT, I was wrong.

This movie really surprised me with the amount of emotional scenes. More emotion than the older Rocky films, which is amazing. This is what REALLY made the movie shine in a light that made the entire thing worth watching over and over.

The emotions obviously lead up to one heck of a fantastic boxing match at the end. Who wins the fight? Doesn't matter, and you'll see why at the end. What a great way to end an interesting series, that's all I'll say about the ending.

Another thing that surprised me was the way the entire movie had a creepy, quiet tone that pretty much stayed like that until the training for the main boxing match at the end. That tone really helped keep my interest in the storyline, so a job WELL done.

Another cool thing is how the storyline leads you believe Rocky is too old to ever fight again, and then you see a completely different person when the time comes for Rocky to fight. Awesome.

You must see Rocky Balboa to watch how to properly tell an interesting and emotional story.

To be honest, I kind of wish this film didn't exist. I was (and still am) a huge a fan of the Rocky series and while IV and V certainly have their faults, I found a lot more to dislike about Rocky Balboa.

I understand the main motivation for Rocky to get back into the ring is Adrian's death (thus the necessity to have her written out of the story so that there's actually a point to even having a 6th movie) but at this point, I feel that Stallone similarly already went down this road with Mickey and Apollo and because of that, there's not much of anything new being done here plot-wise. The difference here though is the entire film is heartwrenchingly sad and depressing all the way to the very end. If Stallone's goal was to choke people up throughout the course of the film, he certainly succeeded. But, for as much as Rocky loses in his life (watches Mickey die, sees Apollo get killed, loses his fortune, etc.) would it have been so wrong to have the story of Rocky be put to rest with him for once winning outside of the ring (ie. life) and be able to live out his later years with the 1 thing he presumably loves more than boxing? And I know, this goes back to the argument that it was necessary for Adrian to be gone for this film to even be made. Which is why I would have preferred it not have been. Or, at the very least, have taken another angle. Simply put, its too unsettling of a way to close out the saga.

Another major gripe I had with the film was Rocky's foe, Mason Dixon, was incredibly undeveloped to the point that I almost didn't even care about the boxing match itself. So much of the movie focuses on Rocky dealing with his grief, that there's no time for boxing to be the focus save for a few scenes.

The few positives I could find out of the film mostly included the nostalgia of it. Stallone did a good job of tying in a lot of stuff from the past films. The acting is solid and Paulie was entertaining as usual. But, between the lackluster build-up of Rocky's match with Dixon and the tremendously depressing story, the ending is far too unsettling for me and in my opinion, didn't really redeem anything from the fifth film. When Stallone knew that the only solid vehicle he could come up with to push out a sixth installment was to write out yet another main character (which now adds up to being a major plot point in 1/2 of all the Rocky movies), he should have known there wasn't much left to say and to just let it be. Or, to have thought this one out a little harder.

Maybe it's because I was a little kid when the first Rocky came out but they do it for me for some reason. Most of them. Rocky 5 was awful. As I sit here I can't remember if I ever saw the entire movie. I think I always bailed out of it before it was over. I never thought that one was worthy of being the last Rocky movie so it was nice that this one came out. Whether it's because I feel like I know the core characters from all those times seeing the movies as a kid or not, they still have a way of getting to me.

I didn't read about the movie, didn't talk with anyone about it, didn't look into it at all until I first saw it on HBO or Showtime or whoever aired it a couple months ago. Since #5 was so bad I didn't rush into this one. I have been happily surprised. The first (and one of the hardest) punch of the movie is seeing the name on the headstone. I had no idea Adrian was dead in this one before that moment, and no
intention of mentioning her death in my review but after 20 seconds on this page I saw it has been mentioned tons of times already so I don't think I'm letting a secret out.

Adrian was always such a cutie pie sweety, and she was also sort of the Edith Bunker of the Rocky films. In many ways she was the strength and conscience. All the things that some reviewers have considered to be the slow, depressing stuff before the movie (aka the boxing) begins is the stuff I love. There's genuine feeling there. It's a drag that Talia Shire didn't get to be in this one but much of the movie is a fitting tribute to the strength of the character she brought to life. I like that.

Also, this Rocky most imitates real life. There's no villain to conquer and there's no ascension to, nor fall from greatness. It's a story about the people, places and memories that make a life.

My gripe about the movie is the training montage. Donning the same grey sweatshirt/sweatpants from the first movie, punching the meat, etc... was too obvious for me. I don't like things to be so blatant. Also, my favorite passage of the famous Rocky musics is only touched on for one small part as the credits are rolling. That was a bummer.

Still, what really matters in this one is that Rocky has always been a good guy and he even delivers a street-corner speech that the USA could and should really take to heart. "It's not how hard you hit." We'd be a better nation because of it. Rocky Balboa is a really touching way to wrap up the mythology of this pop-culture icon.

I bought this movie because I was hoping it would compete with Rocky 1-4. I was hoping for the best but expecting another Rocky 5. Turns out this was a pleasant surprise. The only dislike I had was the relationship Rocky had with Little Marie and her Son. Rocky seems to have taken a liking to the son but yet the relationship was not explored. The fight scenes were great the dialouge was lacking. This Rocky did not leave a segway for a 6th movie but what a way to finish an epic adventure that the Rocky's have given us all.

I was impressed by Rocky Balboa. Excellent storyline about Rocky facing his inner demons. Some good messages about life and character values such as tenacity, indomitable will, never giving up, heart, self respect and everything else we have come to expect from Rocky. This is a great finally and the perfect example of why we love the Rocky character.

Gotta Be Willing To Take The Hits

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life, but it ain't about how hard you can hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. It's about how much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now if you know what you're worth, go out and get what your worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him or her or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain't you! You're better than that!"
-Rocky.

So this movie... is not too bad, actually. Rocky is an old dog now, still got some good mileage left, but clearly he has taken his hits, and then some. In fact he seems to be pretty much done, his glory days long since past. But of coarse we know he's got some fight left in him and watching him pull himself up by his boots straps like the all American hero is, get back into shape and get into that ring one last time(?) you may actually feel respect for this character and enjoy the film. The greatest moment comes when his son shows up and Rocky delievers a truly inspired speech that serves as the message of the film. Stallone made a decent film and heartfelt send-off for Rocky.

I know alot of people thought that Sylvester Stallone was too old to play Rocky Balboa. I thought that he did a good job in "Rocky Balboa". Stallone did a good job of wraping up the Rocky franchise. I think that Rocky Balboa is just as good (if not better)than some of the other Rocky movies.
I reccomend that before watching "Rocky Balboa" you watch the first Rocky movie. The reason why is because there is alot of referances back to the first Rocky movie.

Sylvester Stallone is feeling nostalgic lately. Between "Rocky Balboa" and the latest Rambo installment, he's trying to resurrect past glories and reconfirm that his skills as a writer/director/actor are worth recalling as solid. "Rocky Balboa" goes a long way towards re-establishing Stallone's credibility for the better.

"Rocky Balboa" is a well done, feel good sixth chapter, redeeming the sometimes absurdity of the later Rocky films. Rocky is an older man, he's lost his Adriane but named his restaurant after her, has a son who hates living in a shadow. (Weird irony - years ago when Weird Al did a Rocky parody song to Eye of The Tiger, he sang about Rocky opening a deli.) But 'Rock' wants one more chance to show what he's made of after a simulated "Then Vs Now" simulation shows a fight between Rocky and current champ Mason Dixon.

Cue Bill Conti and Stallone is sweats. Virtually a tribute to previous Rocky flicks (complete with multiple flashbacks and Burt Young/Paulie), the movie offers feel-good comments and philosophical asides like a zen-boxing Master. Rocky befriends Marie (Geraldine Hughes) and her son as an antidote to his loneliness, but is far too honorable to move beyond just helping her out. Showing the arrogant champ that the must important muscle being a real champ has is his heart. Proving to glib cynical sportscasters that age is just a number. The movie is very predictable, refuses to play into a maudlin ending, and - most importantly - absolves Stallone from the last few years of sleepwalking through his 90's movies.

Interesting note - the filming in Philadelphia had already wrapped when a snowstorm hit that day, and the opportunity for more dramatic settings had arrived. The crew quickly grabbed a camera and filmed an impromptu re-shoot of the street-running scenes, ending with Rocky charging up the steps of the Art Museum in the driven snow.

This movie is about 'heart'; to take it and still fight back.
Boxing is a bad metaphor for it as the current legal
situation is a financially mediated joke with three recognized champions.
Most people have turned to things like kung fu, karate or kick boxing:
even women's boxing has more draw than a fixed or fixated heavy weight
fight. So why do we still see the hopes of the fighters as
something we will watch? Am I spoiling it by saying Rocky loses?
But he also delivers his message of heart and courage one more time.
I can't give it more than three stars because it
is the same old same old...with a new younger woman for love interest.

VERY EXCITING AND MORE REALISTIC THAN THE PREVIOUS ROCKY MOVIES. LETS REMEMBER FOR THOSE WH GAVE IT 1 OR 2 STARS, WE ARE NOT IN THE 80'S ANYMORE. MUCH MORE EMOTION ON STALLONES PART. A GOOD FINAL ACHIEVEMENT IN HIS LIFE. I RECCOMEND IT TO ANYONE WHO LIKE ROCKY.

Growing up, the classic series of Rocky boxing films use to be a piece of Americana. After a sixteen year sabbatical from Rocky V in 1990, the latest film, Rocky Balboa, was released last Christmas to theatres. Rocky Balboa is played by Sylvester Stallone, and the film takes place well over a decade since Rocky V and a few years after Rocky's wife, Adrian passes away.

Rocky is having trouble living life after boxing; he cannot connect with his son, and is still coming to terms that his wife is gone. That all changes when ESPN has a computer generated fight predicting Rocky Balboa defeating the current reigning champ, Mason "The Line" Dixon (played by retired boxer, Antonio Tarver). This motivates Rocky to get back to the ring and make a George Foreman-esque comeback for the ages.

Sylvester Stallone is a natural as Rocky Balboa. He plays the role as perfectly as he did decades ago. The storytelling is done remarkably well compared to previous Rocky movies. Stallone directed this too, and he did a wonderful job with the narrative transitioning Rocky on the verge of a nervous breakdown to coming around by finding new friends and family to making his comeback to the ring. Admittedly, it is pretty formula, but if you have seen past Rocky films than you know they are not known for breaking new grounds, but more on delivering feel good moments. Rocky Balboa accomplishes this in spades.

The DVD itself is nicely put together. The film transferred very smoothly and looks great even on my standard definition television. I was expecting a double disc special edition release, but Rocky Balboa has basic packaging, and a decent offering of extras. The three documentaries provide an insightful look behind the scenes of the film, and on the choreography of the fights. There are also some interesting deleted scenes that help explain some miniscule gaps in the film, and an alternate, more feel good ending. Finally Sly himself provides commentary for the film.

If you're a fan of sports films, or have seen any of the older Rocky flicks than you got to get Rocky Balboa on DVD. I got a feeling this one may see a special edition release sometime down the road, but it still has a good amount of extra features to make it worth your while.
Rocky Balboa

Excellent movie if you go into it with zero expectations. It should really be terrible, but it's mostly entertaining.

I went into watching this thinking it would be pure, implausible corn, but I was strangely surprised at how good this film was. Surprising, too, was how similar this film was in feel and spirit to the original Rocky film. Fascinating too is that this film, of all the Rocky films, seems to have the LEAST actual focus on boxing. The film is all about character development, relationships, and longing for the past. Some great material being told here.
I loved seeing Rocky's continuous obsession with the past, complimented with Bill Conti's music again (the graveyard sequences were especially poignant.)
Also interesting was how the "Little Marie" relationship was handled. I have to admit I was squirming contemplating a love story unfolding, and thankfully, Rocky's relationship never veers beyond that of a caring father (even at the hotel, pre-fight, when Marie visits Rocky's room, and Rocky is wearing the white-undershirt, I'm thinking... oh, no... please no. And indeed, nothing happened. Thank you, Sylvester Stallone, for leaving romance out of this one.)
The final fight unfolded convincingly, although in the back of my mind, I love the idea of Rocky dying from the fight and being reunited with Adrianne, but that might have ended the film on a note of corniness. And as it stands, the film, and the Rocky series, ended with class.

When I first heard this movie was going to be made, I groaned in agony. But then a good friend of mine stated, `I think he still has something to say'. And you know what? He actually did.

Don't get me wrong, I knew Stallone had talent. After all, he scribed all the Rocky movies (the first won an Oscar), and directed 2, 3 and 4. Leaving the fifth to the director of the original. I can't blame him for wanting to make one more movie (lets hope it's only one more) after the travesty of the fifth movie. Something was definitely lost in the translation. This is a beloved character for him and he obviously wanted to set things right.

Rocky Balboa is most certainly a return to the roots of the original movie and character. Where a man overcomes all negative odds with heart and belief in himself. Stallone takes the reigns and makes sure this movie came out the way it should. An aged Rocky is now suffering the loss of Adrian, a distant relationship with his son and just getting older. Everything in his town is changing and even though he seems to be taking it all in stride, there are moments where he is obviously having trouble dealing with it all.

When a computer generated `Fantasy Fight' is broadcast on ESPN pitting Rocky (in his prime) against the current champ Mason Dixon, the buzz turns into full blown demand for an actual fight. The plot is pretty predictable from that point on, the inevitable is going to happen and Rocky ends up in the ring. But you still find yourself rooting for him with everything you can, even though the guy he's fighting isn't someone you want to hate like the last three movies.

After a decade of flopping mediocre movies that he got paid WAAAYYY too much money for (Assassins, The Specialist, Driven) Stallone has been humbled, and seems to be trying to get some dignity back. He has done that with Rocky Balboa, bringing some class back to an American underdog character that has become an icon of our culture.

Just saw this final installment of the Rocky series.
Can't say that I'd been entirely happy about the fact that a new one was going to hit the market.
The last one was abysmal at best.
But this is the best way to end the seminal Rocky series.
The poorer side of Philly is back (and takes a good chunk of the film).
The Rocky we knew as a REAL underdog is back.
Paulie is back.
Hell, even the egg drinking is back.
The best part of this film is that it actually LOOKS like the first Rocky. I'm not sure what camera techniques were used in the making, but the film has that grainy, streetwise look to it, and that strengthens the story even more.
I had NO intention of even seeing this movie, but I'm definitely glad that I'd spent both my money and time to watch it.
This one's most assuredly a keeper.

The first Rocky film was an astounding and unexpected success back in the Seventies because it was a simple, inspiring tale that the American everyman could relate too. Now that everyman is growing old, and the final installment in the saga returns to its roots with another simple, inspirational tale of life's journey 'not being over till its over'.

The film does take a little while to get going. Tha's not to say it isn't entirely worthy - the themes of growing old, the clinging to past memories and the lack of respect from the young are sure to strke a chord with an entire generation and are played out rather nicely, but it all comes together in the final half when Rocky breaks out those raw eggs and starts 'building some hurt bombs'. The climatic fight scene is far and away the most realistic of the six film franchise (unsuprisingly as it does feature a real boxing champion playing the opponent) and is guaranteed to have the audience (young and old) chanting the name of the immortal underdog Rocky one last time.

Unlike others, I don't see a need to post yet another recap of the storyline...

Stallone and Rocky have been tremendous inspirations in my life. They helped me get into shape once, in the 1980's. And I'll likely use this inspiration once again, in my 50's, to get back into shape.

My first reaction to the news of another Rocky movie was "What the heck?! Is he going to be in a wheel chair?!" I waited till I could buy the DVD at a local store for a good price.

The movie was ok.. I think they did all the right things, considering the star's advanced age, etc.

I am somewhat crestfallen to read that Sylvester Stallone has resorted to using Human Growth Hormone in order to be in shape for the Rocky and Rambo movies.

That is just another indication that Stallone is too old to play those characters any more.

My advice to Stallone: retire those characters. Concentrate on what you can do with your body, naturally.

Hopefully you've earned enough from your previous career that you can retire in reasonable comfort.

Sylvester Stallone has always been underrated by many, but his characterizations of Rocky Balboa and John Rambo will outlive him and the rest of us. Sure, there were failures in the series, but the originals were classic.

With "Rocky Balboa", Stallone acknowledges saying goodbye to the character he created thirty years earlier. And it is a fine, heart-tugging send off. I doubt, though, that it will work for anyone who hasn't seen the original "Rocky", because the main movie figures so prominently.

Rocky is long past his prime. His beloved Adrian died of "woman's cancer" a few years ago and Rocky pines for her every day. Stallone's script is particularly touching in this regard as Rocky visits the cemetery where he has a folding chair stashed, so he can sit and visit graveside with Adrian. Pauly, Adrian's obnoxious brother, is still around, obnoxiously played by Burt Young who seems born to the role.

Rocky's life is empty. Yes, he has what appears to be a successful restaurant, named "Adrian's", where like many sports celebrities before him, he regales patrons with stories of his glory days. His son, unconvincingly portrayed by someone whose name I've forgotten, is embarassed by his father's fame and is trying to just make his own way in the business world. Rocky visits the old neighborhood and is dismayed to see that things are changing, decaying really, getting old just like the Rock.

Rocky finds a shy romantic interest in the grown-up girl who sassed him in the first "Rocky".

But the real story involves Mason "The Line" Dixon, the reigning heavyweight champion who has an image problem: people think that he has acheived his title not because of his boxing skills, but because his slick promoters line up weak opponents. A local sports show has an ongoing debate over whether Rocky in his prime could have beaten Mason Dixon. Yes, they say and they have a computerized animation to prove it.

This sparks the idea of an "exhibition" match between the young Dixon and the aging Rocky. The spectacle of 60 year old Rocky Balboa training to fight the youthful Dixon becomes the meat of the movie and is, frankly, moving, recalling the original "Rocky". (Seeing the againg Stallone's over-muscled physique, however, borders on the grotesque.)

The culmination is the fight between the two - and it is beautifully choreographed.

In the end, "Rocky Balboa" echos all the human qualities that made the original "Rocky" so appealing. The battle of the underdog doesn't lose its appeal, especially in Stallone's very talented hands.

Jerry

My husband and I had both seen most of the Rocky films. Actually, I think he saw them all, and I saw the first 3. I really didn't expect this one to be all that good and mainly got it because (1) our son and his fiance live in Philly where it's filmed and (2) for nostalgic purposes.

We were pleasantly surprised! Stallone is looking a little worse for wear, but he carries off the part of Rocky very well. As he says, "he still has a little junk in the basement." Against his son's wishes, he decides to come out of retirement and get his license to box. His timing happens to coincide with a video match between him at his prime and a young boxer who has never really been challenged. That young boxer's promoter asks Rocky to do an exhibition match....it's not supposed to be real. But Rocky being Rocky, he trains for real and ends up fighting a legitimate fight against the "young gun." Both walk away better off for the match. And, of course, we get to hear the Rocky theme music!

The film keeps your attention, including one part where the sort-of love interest in his life asks him why he's being so kind to her and her son (who were abandoned by the father)....she says, "you don't owe us anything. Why are you being so nice?" and He responds, "Why you got to owe somebody to get something?" Typical Rocky.

If you liked the earlier Rocky films, I think you'll like this one. It may not be an Oscar winner, but there are some funny parts, some philisophical parts and some good entertainment. Definitely worth watching!

You may have never seen the original Rocky in 1976. That was when you still had to go to the theatre to see a first run flick. If you do remember the film, then if you ever hear "Gonna Fly Now" the image of a nobody, striving to become a somebody comes to the fore.

Fast forward 30 years to when this nobody has become a somebody, and now is sliding back into to used to be a somebody. This is where we find Rocky. Old, retired, frustrated at what was, what is, and what could have been.

The scene where Rocky tells Paulie of the beast within now that Adrian has gone, and his need to let it out is pure glory. We all have only so many days in our lives to get out that which lies within, before our breathe is stilled.

One last shot, not at glory, not at winning, not at taking the prize..., but one last shot at knowing what it truly means to still feel something, to be alive, and to know that it isn't over until it's over..., that is what Rocky Balboa is all about.

Highly Recommended.

Cheers!

I don't get it. I'm watching the fight scenes, my heart is racing, my pulse is pounding and I'm throwing phantom punches along with the "Rock". "Hey," I tell myself, "this is just a movie!" But what a great movie! It has it all. Humor. Emotion. Elation. I laughed, I cried. This film pulls you in and you stay there till the end. Highly recommended. Very enjoyable.

I had low expectations for the new Rocky and Rambo movies, I don't know why, maybe I was thinking "oh they're doing this just to make a quick check" but that's not the case at all, both movies were very good.

I really liked this Rocky movie, and I never realized that Stallone's was such a good actor! Him and Pauly in the meat factory was a great scene, really gripping. The only iffy part with me was the fight, how it was filmed, it got a little boring and I'm not sure I liked the way it was set up to make it look like a real fight on HBO, it just didn't sit right with me or something. Still though, the story was great, acting was great, I gotta give props to Stallone! Definitely worth a watch.

I give this film 5 Stars, as for me Stallone again proves again he is a Great Director as well as a Great Writer.
Tony Burton returns as "Paulie" with his usual observations and "Subtle" commentary, Some Movie Critics
have not been fair with the last several in this series, but those who admire stories of beating the odds,this
one will hold-up as well as the others. I am reminded of Eastwood's "High Plains Drifter" in the closing scene
of this movie, which is sad, as we realize this story has now come full circle. Oh well, there is always the 1976
release to view, and start the journey all over again!

Sylvester Stallone returns in his sixth and last film as "Rocky Balboa". It has been 30 years since the first film, Rocky (1976) and 17 years since Rocky V (1990).
Burt Young returns as "Paulie"
Pedro Lovell from Rocky (1976) returns as "Spider Rico".
LeRoy Neiman from Rocky III, IV, V returns as a "Fight Announcer".
Tony Burton from Rocky V (1990) returns as "Duke".
Gary Compton was a "Drinker" in Rocky V, returns as a "security guard"
Frank Stallone, his real brother, makes another cameo appearance. This time as a "dinner patron".

Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) is still grieving over the death of his wife, Adrian. Memories of their courtship still have a hold on him. Paulie (Burt Young), Adrian's brother, is still around to try and pull Rocky through. Rocky is feeling alone and visits his old haunts.
Rocky tries to keep his relationship with his son, Robert (now played by Milo Ventimiglia) who is too busy and frustrated trying to make it in the corporate world.
Rocky keeps busy with his restaurant, Adrian's. Rocky relizes neighborhoods have changed, people have changed than 30 years ago and he's feeling his age, but he is starting to get that urge to fight again.

Appearances by A.J. Benza, Mike Tyson, Jim Lampley.

Option of audio in English, French. Option of subtitles in English, French, Spanish.
Special features include Audio Commentary with Sylvester Stallone, deleted scenes, boxing bloopers, making of..., Virtual Champion: Creating the Computer Fight.

When I first heard about this my reaction was to groan. Having seen ROCKY BALBOA I have to admit my fears weren't justified. This is a very entertaining film that bring the Rocky saga to a satisfactory conclusion -- far better than ROCKY V 16 years earlier. His son is an adult, Adrian has died and become a therapist to Geico cavemen, and Rocky finds himself drawn into another improbable contest. Still, the formula still works.