Under-recognized but not underrated. Ever see Hot Shots? They know the Rocky and Adrian love story is great. But most people only recognize Rocky for the fighting
This is why this movie passes for me, since I don't like sports movies. (Well, except for Slap Shot ... and maybe A Knight's Tale, because that's actually just a sports movie.)
The dog was actually Stallone's dog. His name was Butkus just like in the movie. When he was having a hard time making ends meet, he sold him for 40 dollars. After the screenplay for Rocky sold, he bought him back. Butkus appeared in the first two Rocky movies. He died in 1981.
The best observation I heard was (first) Paulie’s small redemption opening the rope for Adrian then Rocky’s first words upon seeing her in the ring “where’s your hat?” It’s such a small detail but shows how much he cares for and knows every detail about her that he would notice something seemingly so insignificant especially after the biggest moment of his life.
Rocky is beloved not because it's a boxing movie, but because it is a love story about an amazing and humble character who happens to be a boxer. His and Adrian's chemistry and development build the catharsis of Rocky's goal to prove himself. It was never about winning the fight, which is why the results are in the background, what matters is he did it. The work that goes into the movie also shines through, Stallone could've gotten a bigger budget if he didn't play the main role but he stuck to it, he was living in his car before the screenplay was bought; Butkus the dog was his own dog he had to give away because he couldn't afford to keep him. They filmed guerrilla style too, so pedestrians and such on the street are just normal people, they had a steadicam to film on which was one of the earliest of its kind which made it cheaper since it was an early and experimental product at the time, and oh, they hit each other. Stallone wanted to get the sfx of actual hitting so they made full contact for some scenes, ironically Weathers broke his nose and Stallone hurt his ribs, the inverse of their characters. You're in for a great run of movies, my personal faves are the second and sixth, the Creed trilogy is also really good.
Saw this in theater. The crowd booed in the end when Rocky lost. They didn’t get it. Rocky went the distant and most important, he got the girl. Rocky won! Saw it several times. Each time the booing was less as more people got it. Loved your reactions, V! Moo!
Especially by Rocky 3. Comparing her from 1 to 3 is like night and day, but it all feels so natural. The scene where she confronts Rocky on the beach and helps him overcome his fear is such an incredible character moment for both of them.
I love how you presented Rocky at the very start, as "some dude who practice boxing" because for me it's his whole character. Just some dude, trying to do his thing for a living. I think that was really on point
- Yep, cutting swollen eyes is real, and is performed by the guy who makes the wound treatment between rounds, the cutman. - Boxing have 3 side judges who grades the boxers according to their performance each round, so if there isn't a knockout and the fight goes the distance (15 rounds at the time, but since the late 80s/early 90s this was reduced to 12 rounds on professional boxing) those grades are used to find a winner. A split decision, as the one on this movie, tells that 2 judges gave the victory to Apollo, the other gave the victory to Rocky.
People who don't watch Rocky movies: "It's not for me." Same people who watch the first one: "Wow. i really enjoyed that!" Same people who watch the second one: "I'm addcited now."
I love watching women watch Rocky for the first time. They always go in thinking it's gonna be another meatbag sports movie and are so blindsided by how sweet Rocky is and how good the love story part is.
When I first watched Rocky, RockyV had come out. Rocky was a cultural phenomenon so I had this idea that Rocky was this unbeatable super hero. I was so impressed that he didn't win the fight. Beating Apollo wouldn't have been realistic or a good victory. Instead his victory was over his own demons. He proved he could stick to something and see it through.
Hey VKunia. Not sure if you know this but Rocky is inspired by a real 1975 Championship fight between then Heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. Ali was predicted to put Wepner rather quickly but Wepner shocked everyone when he nearly “went the distance” with Ali, finally going down just 19 seconds short of a full fifteen rounds. When Stallone saw that fight, Rocky was born. Wepner is still alive today. He’s 85 I think.
@@ronfehr7899 But the movie took a few years to get off the ground after they finally let Sly start in the movie. I don't think the movie would've came out in '76 if it was inspired by something that happened in '75.
@@joemckim1183That's why it's not possible to believe everything you read or hear. Some theories, for lack of a better word, become so engrained into people's heads that they are sometimes accepted as truth. Seeing your comment, it's entirely possible that this is what may have happened here. As I said, it's a popular belief, but that doesn't necessarily make it true.
Vicky you said it perfectly while watching this movie. This is a better Love Story the most of the movies I have seen. Just remember that when watching all these movies. The Rocky movies are a love story that has boxing in it. ❤❤❤
Winner of 3 Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director (John G. Avildsen), and Best Editing. 1976 was an insane year for Oscars, with ROCKY, NETWORK, TAXI DRIVER, ALL THE PRESIDENT'S MEN and BOUND FOR GLORY all being nominated for Best Picture that year (NETWORK in particular is a must watch in today's times).
I remember the guys who made The Usual Suspects saying that every movie worth watching was made in the '70s. I don't agree, but it was still an incredible decade for films.
@@DavetheGrue I happen to agree actually. The first half of the 70's especially was the peak IMO, filled with stellar character-driven dramas and phenomenally well directed and scripted films (FIVE EASY PIECES, GODFATHER 1 & 2, CHINATOWN, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, SAVE THE TIGER (also directed by ROCKY's John G. Avildsen and starring Jack Lemmon in a Best Actor Oscar-winning performance), THE LAST DETAIL, SERPICO, DOG DAY AFTERNOON, NETWORK (the latter 3 all directed by Sidney Lumet) and many more all released during this period). To be honest, the 90's is a bit of a letdown for me (the 80's to a lesser extent as well).
There are no real villains in the film, which I love. Rocky's only enemies are his own self-doubt and his circumstances, all the characters have reasons for doing what they do and they're all human beings with flaws and qualities. Even Gazzo is a misdirect, if you're a first-time viewer you think he's gonna screw Rocky over in some way or try to extort him, but instead, he does the opposite. You think Mick is gonna be proven wrong and get his comeuppance when Rocky succeeds, instead they air out their grievances and help each other. It's just so refreshing, it doesn't even feel like a movie, it feels like a true story.
I read, years ago, that Gazzo is so supportive of Rocky because they were originally written to be half brothers. Same father, different mother situation as their father "got around but didn't stick around." That backstory was cut because the production was on such a tight budget. Another backstory cut was for Paulie being so negative. He was a military veteran dealing with his issues by drinking. In real life he was actually a Marine Corps veteran and picked up boxing while he was enlisted. You can see a real picture of him in uniform in the living room. Would've been nice to have these backstories especially since people rag on Paulie throughout the franchise.
You said you use to live in Philly but are just NOW checking out the Rocky series?! For shame lol. The Rocky steps are the Art Museum steps and the area is Fairmount. I'm from Philly and actually where they filmed Rocky I grew up literally right around the corner from the house they use in the movie on Somerset in Kensington (don't suggest that neighborhood now). This move came out before I was born but seeing the old neighborhood in this classic brings back so many memories. Every Rocky movie kicks ass even 5. Enjoy MiO bella.
20:50 "This is a better love story than, like, most of the films I've seen..." Yes. Yes it is. It is a legendary love story. The punching is incidental backdrop.
You gotta move Rocky II to the top of the watch list. They really need to be watched as close together as possible because it’s a direct continuation from where Rocky left off.
It's a great love story because it involves a masculine man and a feminine, demure woman. They fit each other, perfectly. Her brains and gentle nature mixed with his strength and determination make them a couple to envy. They are 100% honest with each other. No game-playing. Rocky gives Adrian his strength, and Adrian is Rocky's inspiration. You're going to love all of these movies! I'm so glad you've finally started them.
It's also great because unlike other similar romances, neither of them are smooth at all. They're both awkward dorks with little to no relationship experience, Rocky's a little derpy and Ade is a little frumpy, but they still manage to hit it off due to sheer chemistry. This was kind of unheard of in 1975.
I watched these movies so much growing up, and all the "boring parts" when I was a kid, it took me a long time to appreciate how amazing they are. The scene with Micky coming to Rocky's house and essentially begging to be his manager - and Rocky turning him down originally - is such a powerful scene. This movie absolutely deserved the Oscars it won and was nominated for.
Kensington 😂😂 looks like it but that is the Italian Market on 9th street. And the Neighborhood Rocky lives in and where the gym he trains in is in Fishtown.
Adrian makes this series so unique… She makes him a better fighter and person, and gives Rock something to live for. And she has a crazy brother to deal with and manage, which everyone can relate.
Watch all of them please. Don't skip any. I think what makes this so great is how real all the characters are. No one is perfect, no one is entirely good or bad, so they all feel like real people.
Perhaps the best piece of character work in the whole film: after getting beat to hell, going the distance, and yelling for Adrian, He simply asks, "Hey, Where's your hat?" Perfect encapsulation of the heart of the story. Always loved that scene.
Stallone himself has said that Rocky is not a movie about boxing, it's a love story with boxing in it. They guy who is the leader of the street singing group is Stallone's brother Frank. Stallone still has the turtles Cuff and Link, and they're huge now.
Glad you're watching this. It's one of my favorites. The ending where Rocky is yelling had been memed to death but watching it with context is a real tearjerker! In my mind there isn't a single terrible movie in the franchise which is impressive as well.
Stallone still has those turtles (as of a few years ago). They disappeared after a minor chemical accident, but returned to Stallone after their 15 minutes were up.
Years ago I read that he was orginally intended to be Rocky's half brother. That's why he's so supportive of Rocky when Rocky was otherwise just his hired muscle. They had the same dad but different mothers since their dad "got around but didn't stick around." The backstory had to be cut since the production budget was so tight.
@@jessecortez9449 Honestly, I like it better this way. As a half brother, he'd feel underdeveloped, but as a random shark side character that happens to genuinely care for Rocky, he's way more human and interesting.
You figured it out early on.This is a love story with boxing as the vehicle and the backdrop. I saw this movie at 6 years old with my older sister and it instantly captured me. Your deep dive into this franchise is something you will never regret.
4:05 Yes, this was written by Stallone. Before he became a big star, he's known today, he barely made ends meet. He had to sell his own dog Butkus for money. When he was able to sell his script which became this movie, he wouldn't sell the rights to it for the movie unless he got a starring role. He got the role, however the budget had been lessened. When he made money for the film, he bought Butkus back to appear in the film
You can't understate the timing of when this film arrived. America was in a very pessimistic state following the Vietnam War, the economy was poor, and this film was the first big cultural milestone at the end of that era to give some hope and joy back to the public. People really needed a perfect, romantic, genuine underdog story, and in a small way, Rocky was a step in the healing of the nation. Incredible times, and an incredible film arrived at the perfect time.
4:05 ... That's actually an interesting story. He wrote the script for Rocky, but he wouldn't sell it unless they agreed to one crazy condition: that he would play the main role. And that's how he became a superstar. Before that movie, he had no money and even made a corn movie under the stage name "The Italian Stallion." ;)
I’m really starting to like her and her reactions. Rocky 6 is my favorite. Philly put up a statue of Rocky at the museum of art. Fun fact Rocky made Stallones career, he was homeless when filming and put his last dollar into getting the movie finished and put in theaters
You have just taken the first step into an amazing world. The Rocky series is amazing. Please continue with them all. And if you make it through part 6 (Rocky Balboa) and are still loving it, watch the Creed films as well!
If you've never seen the making of this film, it's absolutely fascinating - very important in the history of cinema for a lot of reasons. My favorite part of this film, one which perfectly encapsulates everything about who this man is, is the final scene after the match. After the fight ends, Adrianne is pushing her way through the crowd to get to him and gets bumped, losing her hat in the process. When she finally gets to him in the ring, this man who can barely stand, who can barely see, who just accomplished the greatest thing in his life, he's just so into her, what's the first thing he says? "Where's your hat?"
1976 was the bicentennial. so a lot was going in to celebrating. Apollo was throwing out dollar coins. Awesome you have background of Philadelphia! Lots if thing were different in the 70's, smoking, no plastic bottles, was all glass, boxing matches were not as limited, etc. Go at least until rocky IV.
There's three judges for a boxing match. They award points for each round based on a set criteria. At the end of the fight, if it's not stopped before then, the points from each judge are tallied. A split decision , in this case, simply means that two judges felt that Apollo won the match and the remaining Judge scored for Rocky.
"The Italian Stallion" was the name of a soft core Porn flick Sylvester was in before he wrote Rocky. The Lead Singer for the Acapella group was Stallone's brother, Frankie (who also wrote the song ).
You're the only reactor who really caught on to the fact that Rocky is, in actuality, a love story disguised as a boxing movie. Definitely one of the best romance stories I have ever seen. It warms my heart every time I watch it. I love the relationship that Rocky and Adrien have. This is one of my favorite movies. Thank you so much for reacting to it.
To help you out with boxing rules. There are three judges who score the boxing match. A split decision means that the winner didn't get all three judges to have them as the winner. So, in this case, one judge had Rocky as the winner and the other two had Apollo.
Just so you know, Rocky is not just a classic in American culture, this is worldwide, I'm South African, I can watch this film and all the others over and over again. Rocky is Universally one of the all time Great Films
Both Stallone's brother and father have small parts in this movie. His brother Frank is the lead singer of the acappella group, and their father is the man that rings the bell during the fight with Apollo. This won't be the only time in this franchise that members of Stallone's family are involved.
UA-cam flash this on my recommend today. I haven't watched this movie in a long time. Your title had a good reaction and a lot of people watched it in one day. So I thought I would join. I am Rocky. Lol. I was a 13-year-old when the movie came out. I am so glad it was a good movie. Lol. Everybody loves it. I heard a lot of, "Yo Adrian!". 😅. I don't think I've seen one of your movie reviews before. You are a very exciting person. It was fun watching it again with you.
So many people think Rocky is just a boxing movie but it's just as much a love story as it is about boxing. Rocky and Adrian have one of the best love stories in cinematic history.
Rocky truly is a classic. There really isn't anything that doesn't hold up. Probably Rocky cornering Adrian was like the only part in my last rewatch where I was like ehhh ohhh. I think it is more the way it is shot. We know as the viewer Adrian likes Rocky and is not being forced into anything.
Adrian getting in Paulie's face and yelling "I'm not a loser!" is one of my favorite movie moments! Can't wait til you watch the rest. There's development of every single character as it goes along.
He was also grandpa Gustafson in 'Grumpy Old Men' and 'Grumpier Old Men'. I sincerely want her to watch those as well. They are both very witty and funny.
The story was inspired by a real fight that Stallone saw in person. The fight was between heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. Wepner was predicted to only last a few rounds with Ali but lasted almost to the end of the fight, he even got credited with knocking Ali down, although replay showed that Ali tripped. But Wepner's performance during the fight inspired Stallone to write this script.
So glad you’re hopping on this train, V. In my opinion, Rocky2 is the best of this series but they all are definitely worth the watch. Looking forward to your journey. And this isn’t a sports movie, it is a love story.
An interesting fact about the film is that Rocky, Paulie and the turtles are the only characters that appear in all the films in the franchise. Another interesting fact, now about the Brazilian dubbing, is that they didn't think it was fair for Rocky to lose and decided that the fight would end in a "Draw" and that was it. The fight had no winner. I only found out that Apollo won on points, like, 30 years later. hauahuah
when i was very little and my dad would play the rocky theme song on record, to wake us up on satuday mornings. and me and my 2 sisters would erupt out of our beds to the music. we'd make the record skip a lot jumping around.
"I don't think Paulie is a good brother or a friend". I think that's part of what makes Paulie so relatable. I think most of us have had a friend we probably shouldn't, but for whatever reason we stick around.
The Rocky series of films (including at least the first Creed) can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Some are better than others but all have really heartfelt moments, some of them inspire, some make you want to cry but damn are they good moments.
Rocky is a love story first and a boxing story second. I have never been a big fan of sequels, but it works here. You need to keep going. They are all fantastic!
Mickey always believed in Rocky as a fighter. But he was disappointed in the life choices that Rocky made (leg buster for a loan shark). I never saw Mickey as trying to "leach" off of Rocky, but rather, I believe that Mickey saw an opportunity to help Rocky turn his life around. And that is why he went to Rocky's apartment. BTW, the fight takes place at the start of 1976, which is the bicentennial celebration of the USA. It was a huge deal back then, and everyone was in the spirit. So the "theme" was celebrating the 200th anniversary of the USA!
I really love reaction videos although they can really be hit or miss. But, when they hit...it really is so fun to watch along and enjoy someone watching movies I love for the first time. I don't comment very often and really only do so if the reactor has done a terrific job that impresses and connects with me such that I just have to acknowledge it. Great job with this reaction of Rocky. I so enjoyed your authenticity and how quickly you connected with the relationship between Adrian and Rock. This love story carries on through this series. I have often thought how the series could be titled "Adrian" because her connection to Rocky and her importance to him as the series develops is so vital. My only disappointment is that you just dropped this a few hours ago and I have to patiently wait for you to react to Rocky II. :) Great job with this reaction. You did really well and I connected with you completely as you connected with the movie. Thank you for this and can't wait to watch along more with you in the future.
Welcome to one of the Greatest Love Story in Cinema History . Talia Shire should of won a Oscar for her part . Remember this was a extremely low budget Movie and Stallone who wrote it gave up Millions of Dollars to Star in it . One last thing when Rocky said the Poster was wrong , it wasn't by the end of the Fight
The bit about the poster having Rocky in the wrong shorts is funny coz it was a genuine cockup that the budget couldn't cover to get corrected so they played it off like he was just a disposable part of the show and adds a layer to the thing :)
Sylvester Stallone was born in New York, but he did go to high school in Philadelphia. And Philly has definitely adopted Rocky Balboa as a true Philadelphian. This movie is played outdoors near the Art Museum (the building at the top of those famous steps) every year during the week before the Fourth of July. (And there’s a statue (actually a prop from Rocky III) at the base of the steps that I’m rather annoyed to say always has a line running along the sidewalk to have a picture taken. I wish more of those people would go up the steps and into the museum, which has a world-class art collection.) 4:06 Yep. Say what you will about some of Stallone’s other movies, he reached another level in this one. Only a handful of actors have ever been nominated for Best Actor and Best Screenplay for the same movie, but Stallone was for _Rocky_ , the others include Charlie Chaplin, Emma Thompson, and Orson Welles. He didn’t win either award, but this movie did get Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Editing. 8:51 The late great Carl Weathers, and the man with the big red carnation is Thayer David, a character actor from the 50s and 60s; this was one of his last roles. 28:30 Apollo Creed is not-very-subtly based on Muhammad Ali - and when Ali heard Creed described as “the Master of Disaster,” he said, “I wish I’d thought of that one!”
😎👍 Most of this movie was filmed in Philly, but not that ice rink at 11:00. That was the Ice Capades Chalet in Santa Monica California, which sadly went bankrupt seven years after this film came out. A lot of Olympians used to train there (Babilonia & Gardiner, Starbuck & Shelly etc). 🥊
2 Fun facts, the poster that screwed up the colors on Rockys Boxing shorts, and the oversized walkout robe were both mistakes by the production team, but they didn't have the money to fix them, So stallone added the lines calling the mistakes out so they would work in the movie
The American theme for the fight was because it was New Years Eve or Day going into 1776. The bicentennial. For those of us that were around then it was a big deal. And here we are 2 years from 250 years old.
_Rocky,_ both the film and its making, is the perennial underdog story. Sly Stallone was a struggling actor, and he wrote this movie so he could play the lead. Despite his lack of fame, a low budget, and low expectations from everyone, this film was a smash and made him a household name. He went the distance, and won our hearts...
Charm is the word. You hit the nail on the head. So much heart and charm. The kind of movie you like when you see it as a kid and then love when you see it as an adult. Then you think: whoever wrote this movie must have a real nugget of beauty & humanity inside of them. And unexpectedly, that person is Sylvester Stallone. Rambo wrote THIS movie...lol.
Rocky and Rocky II, you must watch them in a row. For me it's the same movie in two parts, and absolutely extraordinary.
Agreed. Wholeheartedly. It's one continuous movie.
That didn't happen, this was filmed a few months ago. I'm hoping she continues the series now that it's out on UA-cam.
So true
Absolutely.the rest is nowhere near the level of the first 2
absolutely right
Rocky and Adrian is one of the most underrated romances in cinematic history. Glad you found it
They are soulmates.
Under-recognized but not underrated. Ever see Hot Shots? They know the Rocky and Adrian love story is great. But most people only recognize Rocky for the fighting
'Rocky' is absolutely a romance, the boxing's just a side story❤
ive been telling peop[e this for years!
It's how I got the ex to watch it. She ended up liking them very much!
This is why this movie passes for me, since I don't like sports movies.
(Well, except for Slap Shot ... and maybe A Knight's Tale, because that's actually just a sports movie.)
"Goon" with Sean William Scott has hockey as a side story too.
Correct.
The dog was actually Stallone's dog. His name was Butkus just like in the movie. When he was having a hard time making ends meet, he sold him for 40 dollars. After the screenplay for Rocky sold, he bought him back. Butkus appeared in the first two Rocky movies. He died in 1981.
Look up the story on the Turtles. He still has them.....
I wish dogs lived as long as turtles😢
And his father is the man ringing the bell at the big fight.
Wow I didn't know that 😮@@jaywoolston2851
The kids also were his boys
One thing to know is that rocky was released in 1976 -- the bicentennial. Patriotic display was huge, hence the Apollo Creed patriotic display.
Rocky isn’t a boxing movie Rocky is a love story with boxing in it. RIP Carl Weathers. Rocky wasn’t Rocky without Apollo Creed
Agreed.
The best observation I heard was (first) Paulie’s small redemption opening the rope for Adrian then Rocky’s first words upon seeing her in the ring “where’s your hat?” It’s such a small detail but shows how much he cares for and knows every detail about her that he would notice something seemingly so insignificant especially after the biggest moment of his life.
Rocky is beloved not because it's a boxing movie, but because it is a love story about an amazing and humble character who happens to be a boxer. His and Adrian's chemistry and development build the catharsis of Rocky's goal to prove himself. It was never about winning the fight, which is why the results are in the background, what matters is he did it.
The work that goes into the movie also shines through, Stallone could've gotten a bigger budget if he didn't play the main role but he stuck to it, he was living in his car before the screenplay was bought; Butkus the dog was his own dog he had to give away because he couldn't afford to keep him. They filmed guerrilla style too, so pedestrians and such on the street are just normal people, they had a steadicam to film on which was one of the earliest of its kind which made it cheaper since it was an early and experimental product at the time, and oh, they hit each other. Stallone wanted to get the sfx of actual hitting so they made full contact for some scenes, ironically Weathers broke his nose and Stallone hurt his ribs, the inverse of their characters.
You're in for a great run of movies, my personal faves are the second and sixth, the Creed trilogy is also really good.
Saw this in theater. The crowd booed in the end when Rocky lost. They didn’t get it. Rocky went the distant and most important, he got the girl. Rocky won! Saw it several times. Each time the booing was less as more people got it. Loved your reactions, V! Moo!
Wow, thought this was a super popular iconic movie, had no idea people booed it.
I’ve never seen a reactor fall in love with Rocky as fast as you did 😀. You will love the ENTIRE Rocky franchise.
Couldn't have been that in love since this was filmed months ago, I've been patiently waiting for the other ones on Patreon.
@ Damn, that sucks! She fooled me.
Well, maybe not Rocky 5 😊
@ ya, I’ve seen her’s. Love her reactions
That's because she's already seen it. Reactors are liars. All of them.
If you continue this, you'll see just how great Adrian's character development is.
She's overlooked when it comes to strong female characters
Yes, she was Rocky's backbone.
I've only seen Talia Shire in the Rocky and Godfather franchises. But she bodies every single scene she's in
Especially by Rocky 3. Comparing her from 1 to 3 is like night and day, but it all feels so natural. The scene where she confronts Rocky on the beach and helps him overcome his fear is such an incredible character moment for both of them.
The whole franchise is like this. Just pure charm, hits to the feels, and good hype
I love how you presented Rocky at the very start, as "some dude who practice boxing" because for me it's his whole character. Just some dude, trying to do his thing for a living. I think that was really on point
- Yep, cutting swollen eyes is real, and is performed by the guy who makes the wound treatment between rounds, the cutman.
- Boxing have 3 side judges who grades the boxers according to their performance each round, so if there isn't a knockout and the fight goes the distance (15 rounds at the time, but since the late 80s/early 90s this was reduced to 12 rounds on professional boxing) those grades are used to find a winner. A split decision, as the one on this movie, tells that 2 judges gave the victory to Apollo, the other gave the victory to Rocky.
People who don't watch Rocky movies: "It's not for me." Same people who watch the first one: "Wow. i really enjoyed that!" Same people who watch the second one: "I'm addcited now."
I love watching women watch Rocky for the first time. They always go in thinking it's gonna be another meatbag sports movie and are so blindsided by how sweet Rocky is and how good the love story part is.
When I first watched Rocky, RockyV had come out. Rocky was a cultural phenomenon so I had this idea that Rocky was this unbeatable super hero.
I was so impressed that he didn't win the fight. Beating Apollo wouldn't have been realistic or a good victory. Instead his victory was over his own demons. He proved he could stick to something and see it through.
Hey VKunia. Not sure if you know this but Rocky is inspired by a real 1975 Championship fight between then Heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. Ali was predicted to put Wepner rather quickly but Wepner shocked everyone when he nearly “went the distance” with Ali, finally going down just 19 seconds short of a full fifteen rounds. When Stallone saw that fight, Rocky was born. Wepner is still alive today. He’s 85 I think.
That's what the popular belief is.
@@ronfehr7899 But the movie took a few years to get off the ground after they finally let Sly start in the movie. I don't think the movie would've came out in '76 if it was inspired by something that happened in '75.
@@joemckim1183That's why it's not possible to believe everything you read or hear. Some theories, for lack of a better word, become so engrained into people's heads that they are sometimes accepted as truth.
Seeing your comment, it's entirely possible that this is what may have happened here. As I said, it's a popular belief, but that doesn't necessarily make it true.
Vicky you said it perfectly while watching this movie. This is a better Love Story the most of the movies I have seen. Just remember that when watching all these movies. The Rocky movies are a love story that has boxing in it. ❤❤❤
The street singer is Stallone’s brother, and the bell ringer is his father.
Winner of 3 Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director (John G. Avildsen), and Best Editing.
1976 was an insane year for Oscars, with ROCKY, NETWORK, TAXI DRIVER, ALL THE PRESIDENT'S MEN and BOUND FOR GLORY all being nominated for Best Picture that year (NETWORK in particular is a must watch in today's times).
I remember the guys who made The Usual Suspects saying that every movie worth watching was made in the '70s. I don't agree, but it was still an incredible decade for films.
@@DavetheGrue I happen to agree actually. The first half of the 70's especially was the peak IMO, filled with stellar character-driven dramas and phenomenally well directed and scripted films (FIVE EASY PIECES, GODFATHER 1 & 2, CHINATOWN, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, SAVE THE TIGER (also directed by ROCKY's John G. Avildsen and starring Jack Lemmon in a Best Actor Oscar-winning performance), THE LAST DETAIL, SERPICO, DOG DAY AFTERNOON, NETWORK (the latter 3 all directed by Sidney Lumet) and many more all released during this period). To be honest, the 90's is a bit of a letdown for me (the 80's to a lesser extent as well).
I love how Gazzo looks after him. He is proof that you don't have to be an upstanding guy to be a stand-up guy.
" just because your a badguy doesnt mean your a bad guy"
-satan
Yes, Gazzo is a loyal friend.
There are no real villains in the film, which I love. Rocky's only enemies are his own self-doubt and his circumstances, all the characters have reasons for doing what they do and they're all human beings with flaws and qualities. Even Gazzo is a misdirect, if you're a first-time viewer you think he's gonna screw Rocky over in some way or try to extort him, but instead, he does the opposite. You think Mick is gonna be proven wrong and get his comeuppance when Rocky succeeds, instead they air out their grievances and help each other. It's just so refreshing, it doesn't even feel like a movie, it feels like a true story.
@@VladislavBabbitt The guy who plays Gazzo also appears in The Godfather Part II as Willi Cicci.
I read, years ago, that Gazzo is so supportive of Rocky because they were originally written to be half brothers. Same father, different mother situation as their father "got around but didn't stick around."
That backstory was cut because the production was on such a tight budget.
Another backstory cut was for Paulie being so negative. He was a military veteran dealing with his issues by drinking. In real life he was actually a Marine Corps veteran and picked up boxing while he was enlisted. You can see a real picture of him in uniform in the living room.
Would've been nice to have these backstories especially since people rag on Paulie throughout the franchise.
You said you use to live in Philly but are just NOW checking out the Rocky series?! For shame lol. The Rocky steps are the Art Museum steps and the area is Fairmount. I'm from Philly and actually where they filmed Rocky I grew up literally right around the corner from the house they use in the movie on Somerset in Kensington (don't suggest that neighborhood now). This move came out before I was born but seeing the old neighborhood in this classic brings back so many memories. Every Rocky movie kicks ass even 5. Enjoy MiO bella.
I'm ngl, Rocky is like my comfort series at this point. It's such a great underdog story, the first one especially
The reason Apollo dressed up like George Washington and Uncle Sam and the overall theme of America was because this was 1976 our bicentennial
Also why Creed chose to fight in Philadelphia when later on in the series we find out that Apollo Creed is from Los Angeles.
I remember my Dad telling me how patriotic the country was in 76' because of the bicentennial. There were parades and flags everywhere
@@Meko5 Check out the 1990 movie The Spirit of 76 if you want to see what the bicentennial was like.
20:50 "This is a better love story than, like, most of the films I've seen..."
Yes. Yes it is. It is a legendary love story. The punching is incidental backdrop.
Rocky has for me the best development’s character ever made in a movie. 😊
His character arc across the whole series is so consistently good. Few stories pull that much out of a single character for so long.
You gotta move Rocky II to the top of the watch list. They really need to be watched as close together as possible because it’s a direct continuation from where Rocky left off.
It's a great love story because it involves a masculine man and a feminine, demure woman. They fit each other, perfectly. Her brains and gentle nature mixed with his strength and determination make them a couple to envy. They are 100% honest with each other. No game-playing. Rocky gives Adrian his strength, and Adrian is Rocky's inspiration. You're going to love all of these movies! I'm so glad you've finally started them.
And I keep hearing crap about how Rocky forced himself on her. Do these people have social lives??
It's also great because unlike other similar romances, neither of them are smooth at all. They're both awkward dorks with little to no relationship experience, Rocky's a little derpy and Ade is a little frumpy, but they still manage to hit it off due to sheer chemistry. This was kind of unheard of in 1975.
Fun fact micky played the penguin on the Adam west Batman show
Let's not forget he also played the neighbor in Foul Play. I wonder if V has seen that one.
He's been a lot of movies especially classics with Charleston Heston.
He's also been in two of the best Twilight Zone episodes, Time Enough at Last and The Obsolete Man.
He also played Popeye’s dad
I watched these movies so much growing up, and all the "boring parts" when I was a kid, it took me a long time to appreciate how amazing they are. The scene with Micky coming to Rocky's house and essentially begging to be his manager - and Rocky turning him down originally - is such a powerful scene. This movie absolutely deserved the Oscars it won and was nominated for.
Kensington 😂😂 looks like it but that is the Italian Market on 9th street. And the Neighborhood Rocky lives in and where the gym he trains in is in Fishtown.
Adrian makes this series so unique… She makes him a better fighter and person, and gives Rock something to live for. And she has a crazy brother to deal with and manage, which everyone can relate.
Watch all of them please. Don't skip any.
I think what makes this so great is how real all the characters are. No one is perfect, no one is entirely good or bad, so they all feel like real people.
Rocky is a pretty awesome role model though
Perhaps the best piece of character work in the whole film: after getting beat to hell, going the distance, and yelling for Adrian, He simply asks, "Hey, Where's your hat?" Perfect encapsulation of the heart of the story. Always loved that scene.
Rocky and Adrian's relationship = goals
There are 3 judges a split decision basically means 1 judge thought Rocky won and 2 picked Apollo
From what was shown it appeared Creed won most every round except the 15th. Not sure how a judge could score it for Rocky
Stallone himself has said that Rocky is not a movie about boxing, it's a love story with boxing in it. They guy who is the leader of the street singing group is Stallone's brother Frank. Stallone still has the turtles Cuff and Link, and they're huge now.
Glad you're watching this. It's one of my favorites. The ending where Rocky is yelling had been memed to death but watching it with context is a real tearjerker! In my mind there isn't a single terrible movie in the franchise which is impressive as well.
Stallone still has those turtles (as of a few years ago). They disappeared after a minor chemical accident, but returned to Stallone after their 15 minutes were up.
Tony, the mob guy is a good guy. He loves Rocky. He will help him whenever he can.
Years ago I read that he was orginally intended to be Rocky's half brother. That's why he's so supportive of Rocky when Rocky was otherwise just his hired muscle. They had the same dad but different mothers since their dad "got around but didn't stick around." The backstory had to be cut since the production budget was so tight.
@@jessecortez9449 Honestly, I like it better this way. As a half brother, he'd feel underdeveloped, but as a random shark side character that happens to genuinely care for Rocky, he's way more human and interesting.
You figured it out early on.This is a love story with boxing as the vehicle and the backdrop. I saw this movie at 6 years old with my older sister and it instantly captured me. Your deep dive into this franchise is something you will never regret.
4:05 Yes, this was written by Stallone. Before he became a big star, he's known today, he barely made ends meet. He had to sell his own dog Butkus for money.
When he was able to sell his script which became this movie, he wouldn't sell the rights to it for the movie unless he got a starring role. He got the role, however the budget had been lessened.
When he made money for the film, he bought Butkus back to appear in the film
You can't understate the timing of when this film arrived. America was in a very pessimistic state following the Vietnam War, the economy was poor, and this film was the first big cultural milestone at the end of that era to give some hope and joy back to the public. People really needed a perfect, romantic, genuine underdog story, and in a small way, Rocky was a step in the healing of the nation. Incredible times, and an incredible film arrived at the perfect time.
Can't wait for Rocky IV & Creed II my favs
4:05 ... That's actually an interesting story. He wrote the script for Rocky, but he wouldn't sell it unless they agreed to one crazy condition: that he would play the main role. And that's how he became a superstar.
Before that movie, he had no money and even made a corn movie under the stage name "The Italian Stallion." ;)
Actually, that particular production was renamed to Italian Stallion only after the success of Rocky.
I’m really starting to like her and her reactions. Rocky 6 is my favorite. Philly put up a statue of Rocky at the museum of art. Fun fact Rocky made Stallones career, he was homeless when filming and put his last dollar into getting the movie finished and put in theaters
Rocky 6 is easily the second best movie in the franchise. That speech is some of the writing and acting of Stallones career
I first saw this film on a TWA 747 flying from JFK to Milan. When the movie was over, all the passengers stood and applauded.
I've seen this movie I don't know how many times but it's a handful of female reactors who point out the *"No Kissing" sign in the gym I Never seen
You have just taken the first step into an amazing world. The Rocky series is amazing. Please continue with them all. And if you make it through part 6 (Rocky Balboa) and are still loving it, watch the Creed films as well!
Gawd, I hope no one, as much as we'd want to discuss things like fans, nobody had better spoil nothing for our lovely hostess here.
agreed
In Rocky VII, he fights a Raging Bull played by Robert De Niro in a Grudge Match 😂 I'm kidding of course.
@@Travis_D_Travesty but the real movie is real good, even without rocky/stallone...
the reason for the "american" theme of this movie, is because it was the bicentennial... in Philadelphia, birthplace of the nation. It was a big deal.
If you've never seen the making of this film, it's absolutely fascinating - very important in the history of cinema for a lot of reasons.
My favorite part of this film, one which perfectly encapsulates everything about who this man is, is the final scene after the match. After the fight ends, Adrianne is pushing her way through the crowd to get to him and gets bumped, losing her hat in the process. When she finally gets to him in the ring, this man who can barely stand, who can barely see, who just accomplished the greatest thing in his life, he's just so into her, what's the first thing he says?
"Where's your hat?"
This movie came out in 1976 our nation's bicentennial.
It was a pretty big deal.
1976 was the bicentennial. so a lot was going in to celebrating. Apollo was throwing out dollar coins. Awesome you have background of Philadelphia! Lots if thing were different in the 70's, smoking, no plastic bottles, was all glass, boxing matches were not as limited, etc.
Go at least until rocky IV.
There's three judges for a boxing match. They award points for each round based on a set criteria. At the end of the fight, if it's not stopped before then, the points from each judge are tallied. A split decision , in this case, simply means that two judges felt that Apollo won the match and the remaining Judge scored for Rocky.
"The Italian Stallion" was the name of a soft core Porn flick Sylvester was in before he wrote Rocky.
The Lead Singer for the Acapella group was Stallone's brother, Frankie (who also wrote the song ).
They renamed that movie to capitalize on the success of Rocky.
You're the only reactor who really caught on to the fact that Rocky is, in actuality, a love story disguised as a boxing movie. Definitely one of the best romance stories I have ever seen. It warms my heart every time I watch it. I love the relationship that Rocky and Adrien have. This is one of my favorite movies. Thank you so much for reacting to it.
To help you out with boxing rules. There are three judges who score the boxing match. A split decision means that the winner didn't get all three judges to have them as the winner. So, in this case, one judge had Rocky as the winner and the other two had Apollo.
I love Rocky and Adrian’s relationship in this movie
Get ready to fall in love with Rocky over and over again with each movie... except for 5 lol
Just so you know, Rocky is not just a classic in American culture, this is worldwide, I'm South African, I can watch this film and all the others over and over again. Rocky is Universally one of the all time Great Films
No matter how many times I watch the Rocky series, I'm always entertained. There are six in this franchise and Rocky also appears in two Creed movies.
Both Stallone's brother and father have small parts in this movie. His brother Frank is the lead singer of the acappella group, and their father is the man that rings the bell during the fight with Apollo. This won't be the only time in this franchise that members of Stallone's family are involved.
Loved your reaction to this magnificent classic and we got to see a flower at the end :o)
UA-cam flash this on my recommend today. I haven't watched this movie in a long time. Your title had a good reaction and a lot of people watched it in one day. So I thought I would join. I am Rocky. Lol. I was a 13-year-old when the movie came out. I am so glad it was a good movie. Lol. Everybody loves it. I heard a lot of, "Yo Adrian!". 😅. I don't think I've seen one of your movie reviews before. You are a very exciting person. It was fun watching it again with you.
V, you are absolutely going to love the Rocky franchise journey. Everybody has a different favorite and that is the mark of a great franchise.
So many people think Rocky is just a boxing movie but it's just as much a love story as it is about boxing. Rocky and Adrian have one of the best love stories in cinematic history.
Rocky truly is a classic. There really isn't anything that doesn't hold up. Probably Rocky cornering Adrian was like the only part in my last rewatch where I was like ehhh ohhh. I think it is more the way it is shot. We know as the viewer Adrian likes Rocky and is not being forced into anything.
So glad you're doing the series, not just one movie!
Adrian getting in Paulie's face and yelling "I'm not a loser!" is one of my favorite movie moments!
Can't wait til you watch the rest. There's development of every single character as it goes along.
The actor who played Micky also was the Penguin from the Adam West Batman series
He was also grandpa Gustafson in 'Grumpy Old Men' and 'Grumpier Old Men'. I sincerely want her to watch those as well. They are both very witty and funny.
The story was inspired by a real fight that Stallone saw in person. The fight was between heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. Wepner was predicted to only last a few rounds with Ali but lasted almost to the end of the fight, he even got credited with knocking Ali down, although replay showed that Ali tripped. But Wepner's performance during the fight inspired Stallone to write this script.
So glad you’re hopping on this train, V. In my opinion, Rocky2 is the best of this series but they all are definitely worth the watch. Looking forward to your journey. And this isn’t a sports movie, it is a love story.
An interesting fact about the film is that Rocky, Paulie and the turtles are the only characters that appear in all the films in the franchise.
Another interesting fact, now about the Brazilian dubbing, is that they didn't think it was fair for Rocky to lose and decided that the fight would end in a "Draw" and that was it. The fight had no winner. I only found out that Apollo won on points, like, 30 years later. hauahuah
when i was very little and my dad would play the rocky theme song on record, to wake us up on satuday mornings. and me and my 2 sisters would erupt out of our beds to the music. we'd make the record skip a lot jumping around.
"I don't think Paulie is a good brother or a friend". I think that's part of what makes Paulie so relatable. I think most of us have had a friend we probably shouldn't, but for whatever reason we stick around.
The Rocky series of films (including at least the first Creed) can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Some are better than others but all have really heartfelt moments, some of them inspire, some make you want to cry but damn are they good moments.
Great reaction!... so looking forward to you watching the rest of the franchise the entire series is one of my all-time favorites!
This might be the greatest film series of all time. My personal favorite is Rocky II, Creed is a close second
I was lucky enough to see this when it came out in the Theaters back in '77. It pumped use up for the '80's.
Am a lefty myself heard what she said just playing great reaction as always this truly great movie the rocky theme is always motivational
Now you need to watch Rocky II, III, and Rocky Balboa... watch them all if you want, but those you gotta watch.
This is the most inspirational movie of all time. I dare anyone to watch this movie and not want to follow their dreams afterwards
Rocky is a love story first and a boxing story second. I have never been a big fan of sequels, but it works here. You need to keep going. They are all fantastic!
You have started the greatest saga in cinematic history. And I'm here for it.
Awesome reaction as always V ❤
Mickey always believed in Rocky as a fighter. But he was disappointed in the life choices that Rocky made (leg buster for a loan shark). I never saw Mickey as trying to "leach" off of Rocky, but rather, I believe that Mickey saw an opportunity to help Rocky turn his life around. And that is why he went to Rocky's apartment.
BTW, the fight takes place at the start of 1976, which is the bicentennial celebration of the USA. It was a huge deal back then, and everyone was in the spirit. So the "theme" was celebrating the 200th anniversary of the USA!
You absolutely must read the story of the creation of Rocky. It will break your heart, but you'll be smiling through the tears by the end of it.
I really love reaction videos although they can really be hit or miss. But, when they hit...it really is so fun to watch along and enjoy someone watching movies I love for the first time. I don't comment very often and really only do so if the reactor has done a terrific job that impresses and connects with me such that I just have to acknowledge it.
Great job with this reaction of Rocky. I so enjoyed your authenticity and how quickly you connected with the relationship between Adrian and Rock. This love story carries on through this series. I have often thought how the series could be titled "Adrian" because her connection to Rocky and her importance to him as the series develops is so vital.
My only disappointment is that you just dropped this a few hours ago and I have to patiently wait for you to react to Rocky II. :)
Great job with this reaction. You did really well and I connected with you completely as you connected with the movie. Thank you for this and can't wait to watch along more with you in the future.
Welcome to one of the Greatest Love Story in Cinema History . Talia Shire should of won a Oscar for her part . Remember this was a extremely low budget Movie and Stallone who wrote it gave up Millions of Dollars to Star in it . One last thing when Rocky said the Poster was wrong , it wasn't by the end of the Fight
The bit about the poster having Rocky in the wrong shorts is funny coz it was a genuine cockup that the budget couldn't cover to get corrected so they played it off like he was just a disposable part of the show and adds a layer to the thing :)
Sylvester Stallone was born in New York, but he did go to high school in Philadelphia. And Philly has definitely adopted Rocky Balboa as a true Philadelphian. This movie is played outdoors near the Art Museum (the building at the top of those famous steps) every year during the week before the Fourth of July.
(And there’s a statue (actually a prop from Rocky III) at the base of the steps that I’m rather annoyed to say always has a line running along the sidewalk to have a picture taken. I wish more of those people would go up the steps and into the museum, which has a world-class art collection.)
4:06 Yep. Say what you will about some of Stallone’s other movies, he reached another level in this one. Only a handful of actors have ever been nominated for Best Actor and Best Screenplay for the same movie, but Stallone was for _Rocky_ , the others include Charlie Chaplin, Emma Thompson, and Orson Welles. He didn’t win either award, but this movie did get Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Editing.
8:51 The late great Carl Weathers, and the man with the big red carnation is Thayer David, a character actor from the 50s and 60s; this was one of his last roles.
28:30 Apollo Creed is not-very-subtly based on Muhammad Ali - and when Ali heard Creed described as “the Master of Disaster,” he said, “I wish I’d thought of that one!”
😎👍 Most of this movie was filmed in Philly, but not that ice rink at 11:00. That was the Ice Capades Chalet in Santa Monica California, which sadly went bankrupt seven years after this film came out. A lot of Olympians used to train there (Babilonia & Gardiner, Starbuck & Shelly etc). 🥊
I live in Philadelphia and it’s beautiful here despite all the drugs and crime, but the center of the city is absolutely gorgeous
2 Fun facts, the poster that screwed up the colors on Rockys Boxing shorts, and the oversized walkout robe were both mistakes by the production team, but they didn't have the money to fix them, So stallone added the lines calling the mistakes out so they would work in the movie
The American theme for the fight was because it was New Years Eve or Day going into 1776. The bicentennial. For those of us that were around then it was a big deal. And here we are 2 years from 250 years old.
omigaaawd YES YES!!! I WAS LITERALLY THINKING man i hope v will choose rocky
Great reaction! And you’re going to LOVE Rocky 2. I personally think it’s even BETTER than the first.
_Rocky,_ both the film and its making, is the perennial underdog story. Sly Stallone was a struggling actor, and he wrote this movie so he could play the lead. Despite his lack of fame, a low budget, and low expectations from everyone, this film was a smash and made him a household name.
He went the distance, and won our hearts...
Charm is the word. You hit the nail on the head. So much heart and charm. The kind of movie you like when you see it as a kid and then love when you see it as an adult.
Then you think: whoever wrote this movie must have a real nugget of beauty & humanity inside of them. And unexpectedly, that person is Sylvester Stallone. Rambo wrote THIS movie...lol.