The story behind the making of Rocky in I Play Rocky delivers the same feel-good inspiration as Rocky Balboa’s fictional underdog journey. It's funny, heartfelt and inspiring, with Anthony Ippolito capturing Sylvester Stallone's mannerisms to a tee.
Rocky was an instant box office sensation, earning $117 million domestically against a modest production budget of just $1 million. The film transformed Stallone from a struggling actor into an overnight Hollywood sensation.
At the 1977 Academy Awards, Rocky took home three Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director for John G. Avildsen and Best Film Editing. Stallone earned nominations for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor, competing against Robert De Niro (Taxi Driver), William Holden (Network), Giancarlo Giannini (Seven Beauties) and Peter Finch, who ultimately won for Network.
But the behind-the-scenes story of Rocky may be even more inspirational than Rocky Balboa's fictional journey. Stallone wrote the screenplay, but Hollywood producers weren't interested in casting the unknown actor in the lead role. With a pregnant wife and a struggling acting career, Stallone turned down a $300,000 offer for his script rather than surrender the starring role. He held firm until the producers finally relented.
Anthony Ippolito embodies Stallone, capturing every facial tic, mannerism and those signature droopy puppy-dog eyes. But his performance goes beyond physical imitation, revealing the insecurities and determination behind Stallone's relentless pursuit of his Hollywood dream. I wouldn't be surprised if Ippolito earns a Best Actor nomination this upcoming awards season.
AnnaSophia Robb is another standout as Stallone's incredibly supportive wife, who is credited with helping bring out his best acting performance in Rocky. Their relationship adds another emotional layer to an already inspiring story.
Director Peter Farrelly (There's Something About Mary) brings his signature humor and heart to Stallone's real-life underdog journey. He strikes the right balance between comedy and drama without sacrificing the emotional weight of the story. Peter Gamble's screenplay captures Stallone's self-deprecating humor and deep-seated insecurities in the most heartfelt ways, brought to life beautifully through Ippolito's performance.
For film buffs, I Play Rocky also offers a fascinating glimpse into filmmaking history. Rocky was only the second film to use the then-new Steadicam technology, which allowed for smoother, more fluid camera movement. The innovative camera system helped capture some of the film's most iconic moments, including Rocky's triumphant run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the unforgettable training montage.
Much like the original Rocky, I Play Rocky celebrates perseverance, determination and the courage to bet on yourself when nobody else believes in you.
If you love Rocky, you'll love discovering the remarkable story behind the making of one of modern cinema's most influential films. It's a fitting tribute to Stallone's determination and a reminder that sometimes the greatest underdog story happens offscreen.
I Play Rocky is now playing in select theaters, and everywhere on November 20.