A classic, or perhaps THE classic, story of being beaten down again and again, only to rise above.
Here's my breakdown:
STORY: Like many, I watched this when it came out, and it was sensational for most that watched this relatable story.
Few (contemporary) stories capture, really capture, what it's like to be told "You're a bum" over and over, all while the person keep his / her head above the cruelties of men.
Or as Rocky quietly says to his girlfriend "Adrian!" - "I just want to go the distance." That's it people ... go the distance, and keep you nose clean.
What a beautiful and classic metaphor for getting though life, often with others by our side.
ACTING: Normally, I am not a Stallone fan, but he, Shire, Meredith, and many others all did a fantastic job.
There was an immersion by Stallone that I much appreciate, not that the character is far from his own persona, but excellent character immersion.
ENTERTAINMENT: Moderate to high
TEMPO: Excellent pace throughout, nicely managed
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Love the 70's
MUSIC / SOUND: Sound was fine, and so was the theme song
DIRECTING / WRITING: Director: Aside from this film, Avildsen directed only one other film I'd recommend (lightly) "The Karate Kid" (1984).
Writers: I don't normally think of Stallone as a writer, but wow, nice work.
Is it a good film? Yes!
Should you watch this once? Yes, at least
Rating: 8.5.
Here's my breakdown:
STORY: Like many, I watched this when it came out, and it was sensational for most that watched this relatable story.
Few (contemporary) stories capture, really capture, what it's like to be told "You're a bum" over and over, all while the person keep his / her head above the cruelties of men.
Or as Rocky quietly says to his girlfriend "Adrian!" - "I just want to go the distance." That's it people ... go the distance, and keep you nose clean.
What a beautiful and classic metaphor for getting though life, often with others by our side.
ACTING: Normally, I am not a Stallone fan, but he, Shire, Meredith, and many others all did a fantastic job.
There was an immersion by Stallone that I much appreciate, not that the character is far from his own persona, but excellent character immersion.
ENTERTAINMENT: Moderate to high
TEMPO: Excellent pace throughout, nicely managed
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Love the 70's
MUSIC / SOUND: Sound was fine, and so was the theme song
DIRECTING / WRITING: Director: Aside from this film, Avildsen directed only one other film I'd recommend (lightly) "The Karate Kid" (1984).
Writers: I don't normally think of Stallone as a writer, but wow, nice work.
Is it a good film? Yes!
Should you watch this once? Yes, at least
Rating: 8.5.