It's a shame that after all the Nerdwriters, Watch Mojos and other various video essays and top 10's, nobody takes the time to acknowledge that James Rolfe paved the way for movie reviewers online and basically invented an art form.
Yeah but he is also to blame for the negative asshole critics output too. His refusal to see the GB reboot was his choice to respect, but ignorant and dim sighted. I still respect him, but some of it was lost when he did that.
@chaos lord no. You can criticise, but what I am saying is that he fed the negativity by making a video for something as simple as tweeting out or just keeping it to himself. The movie is whatever anyone wants it to be. No such thing as objective truth or fact when movies are this divisive. Critcism is welcomed and I still welcome it 3 years later, I don't have it in high regards, but as a Ghostbusters fan, seeing and dealing with the chaos at the time, he didn't make it better.
I totally agree with you. James Rolfe was doing all this kinds of videos back in the early days of youtube in 2006. Heck I don't even think they were making money from it until way later when Google came in.
He’s about 5 when they leave, talking like “if a big giant man wanted to beat me up” and one month later, he “made the honour roll!” and is in high school 😑
I like how when Mickey dies in Rocky III it's actually really sad. Mickey tells rocky he loves him then dies, and rocky doesn't try to be some stoic badass, he literally weeps. It's a really sad scene.
It's the only scene in the whole franchise that shows Rocky crying that hard. Usually when he cries, they just show him shedding a few tears and that's it.
The thing I noticed rewatching the Rocky franchise is that Stallone was able to capture not only the theme of each era and year the movie was released in, but he captured the vibe of each era. The late 70's, early 80's, the height of the 80's, the urban vibe, decay and recession vibe of the early 90's. That is the thing that stands out the most to me in these movies.
Exactly. The gritty 70s, the frivolous Reagan Era, all the way to the keepin' it real 90s and 00s. Stallone goes from pasty and flabby to tanned and toned.
Humbleness is the perfect word to describe the original Rocky. It's amazing how Rocky was able to transcend boxing fandom. Rocky is the movie for the average Joe. The underdog. I loved seeing Stallone in Creed. Something about that generation of actors that is just immediately charismatic. Maybe it's the wear on their faces. You can see a glimpse of their life just by looking at them.
Stallone was robbed at the Oscars for his supporting role in 'Creed'. Here is a man who wrote the character over 40 years ago, played it in seven film, directed a huge portion of it, and created a modern day inspirational hero, something that is super rare in Hollywood, and yet for his great performance in 'Creed' he was denied getting a Oscar for Rocky the character. The irony is it kinda plays out exactly like the real situation of Rocky 1 where he did not win the fight but became the peoples winner.
In defence, Mark Rylance gave an amazing and underrated performance in Bridge of Spies. I think it was deserved but it was a major surprise and Rylance himself is one of the best actors that Cinema has.
Rocky III is my favorite Rocky sequel. It shows how your worst enemy becomes your best friend, and I love it when Apollo becomes likable in this sequel he believed in Rocky could defeat Clubber Lang.
The reason Rocky won an Oscar and the others didn't is simple. Rocky was a love story about two misfits finding each other. The others were fighting movies.
Great review James! I love the fact that this channel doesn't need the Angry Video Game Nerd, To survive. It's still got amazing content to keep it going. Good job guys 👌
My favourite part of the Rocky films is in Rocky 4 during the montage when Rocky gets to the top of mountain and yells 'LEGOOOOOO' Man, he must really miss his Lego back home.
Rocky IV isn't the best, but it's damn sure my favorite. love the over the top corniness of 80s and early 90s movies like that. Even like the montage scenes which are terrible lol.
Yeah, that was a bit of a mix up, though I'm sure James knows. I guess you could say he sort of lost it in the court of public opinion. He was expected to mop the floor with Rocky and it went the distance, some thought he was saved by the bell, etc. Creed is so angry about the outcome of the fight that I can see where James got mixed up.
I remember when I was 13 in English class, and we had to write an essay on a film. I chose Rocky 4. For some reason, I insisted on reading my paper to the class. None of the kids cared, but I remember my teacher Mrs Bell being really kind about it
I couldn't wait for that movie, we saw it at the theater too, but sat in the front row because it was full. My girl cried when he was talking to his son outside the restaurant
And IMO the it gives the best quote in the entire series, "If you ever get hurt, this little angel is going to whisper in your ear. He's going to say, GET UP YOU SON OF A BITCH!! Cause Micky Loves you."
I thought it was a good movie lol... to each his own, i didnt bother with after that one I thought even more rocky was gonna get stale but appearntly creed is good ill check it out
Same, and I've always wondered if Stallone actually grew the beard himself, or had a really good makeup artist apply it over the course of shooting the movie.
This is possibly the best movie review I've ever seen. I'd almost go as far as to say it's flawless. It's amazing how James is capable of being so coherent and saying all the things I'd want to say about these movies. One of the best of our time.
I was very shocked you actually have the same listing order as me. One, two, and five are obvious, but most people I know say three and four are better than the new ones. Though, I feel like they're living through nostalgia and not being objective.
For some reason, I found this video motivational. I think it'd be interesting if Mike released a video talking about life and all its good times and bad times.
The plot to Rocky 4, where you explained he comes out of retirement to exact revenge, i personally like to call that the JCVD plot, or Jean Claude Van Dam plot, seeing as in the 80's, that kind of thing ruled the movie scenes back then, especially in van dam movies. So they were all cashing in on that hype of the time.
yea, they definetley gave in to a lot of hype in rocky 4, i mean, the robot at the begining? really? it was clearly because of the demand of scifi movies at that time
Rocky IV is my least favorite of them all for how cartoonish, exaggerated and silly it is. It is just anti-soviet propaganda like Rambo III, and Rocky is basically turned into just another action hero.
Thanks for putting together such a nice retrospective on the Rocky series. You've inspired me to see the films again. It's been a couple of decades for some, but that's part of the fun.
1:38-1:44.; You can literally tell that as the 'Rocky' series went on, Sylvester Stallone got older--yet, he had an amazing physique & was in amazing shape in all of them.
Since this is the 40th anniversary of Rocky, will James Rolfe have all six Rocky films plus Creed and Grudge Match playing on TVs in his house at the same time? Just like with the AVGN Rocky Master System review?
Been watching your videos since I was a kid in primary school. I remember learning your theme song on guitar, was really neat. I gotta say your recent videos are a long time coming. VERY refreshing, and that's coming from a 2006 viewer. Well, might have been a bit later than that but 10 years is a long time so I really don't remember
Rocky V was great I thought. I don't care what anybody says. Stallones real life son in the movie was great i thought. He had great chemistry with Rock & Adrian. It was very believable that he was their real son. Rocky's son in Rocky 6 was a poseur. The song at the end of Rock V was by music legend Elton John. It made me cry. I don't know what people are talking about. The whole movie was great! on the back of the cover, a movie critic said "A Powerhouse 10." That's what I thought.
James Muller they're not gonna put a negative review on the cover moron... LMFAO, just because you like it doesn't mean it was good and the bullshit review from some random critic got it right. smh, you can't be THAT much of a sheep can you?
I actually like Rocky V. I bought it on VHS with my own money when I was younger and the one I watched the most. Eventually I bought Rocky lV and watched that one many times. I didn't watch Rocky 1,2, or 3 until I was in high school. Of course V is not the best, but I still love it because it's part of my childhood.
"It's absurd how many hits he takes to the face without blocking and still wins somehow" Summary of Tony Bellew's (The antagonist in the recent Creed movie) real life boxing career
I love James rolfes movie reviews. great to listen to at work, and keeps me up to do my job. James, thank you for doing this and great job on the reviews!
It was really fun hearing James talk about something other than horror movies. I love the Rocky movies, and I agree wholeheartedly with James in this video.
I grew up in that neighborhood, the Kensington section of Philly and I hung on Rocky's block, right out front of 1818 Tusculum street. My friend Still lives across the street from his house. And I was born in the Hospital right around the corner and baptized in the church in the movie. So needless to say that these movies hold a Very Special place in my heart as well as a lot of my friends and family. Thanks again for making another Awesome Video Review.
I was looking for it so long and i hoped that there might be some precise reviews of the whole franchise - and James, damnit - you did it! Thank you very much!
My mom saw Rocky (original) in the theater 23 times! It was absolutely GREAT movie. Movie was about a guy who believes he was born a nothing & was going to die a nothing, but fate changed everything. A nothing took an opportunity, that was meant as a joke by the champ, & went out to earn RESPECT: SELF-RESPECT. One of the GREATEST MOVIES OF ALL TIME. 1, 2 & Balboa are my favs. The speech in Balboa about how hard life is, is truly AWESOME because it's so true!
Rocky is by far the best in the series, it as an almost innocent charm and grittiness to it, that is so endearing and inspiring. He's an underdog not only in the ring but in life itself, struggling with loneliness, and without real direction to his unfilled life.. It's a love story that packs a real punch, it as real heart and soul at its core,....the coming together of two lost souls, finding happiness and a real meaning to their lives....classic
James, a little extra bit on Rocky IV. When Stallone and Lundgren were shooting the fight sequences, Stallone wanted Lundgren to hit him for real . . . which resulted in Stallone receiving a trip to the hospital as a result. Never ask He-Man to hit you for real. You've probably heard this by now, but I wanted to share anyway. Great vid, mate.
Honestly whenever I hear the story of Rocky I just immediately feel like I'm going to cry, The Rocky series is easily the most motivating franchise in movie history, It's not just about a Boxer but the values of life and death there's so many moral dilemma in the film. I loved in Rocky 3 just seeing how Lang character tore Rocky up so bad that Rocky didn't believe in himself anymore, he actually felt afraid but in the words of Adrian "There's nothing wrong with being afraid" Also that training scene in Rocky IV just the way Rocky is using his normal surroundings to help him get better while Drago used machine made equipment was great as well as the whole thing about nations being together. The Rocky series I can say is the one series where ALL the films are good.
Chuck Wepner is real Rocky , he almost went fifteen rounds with world heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali in a 1975 title fight. Rocky vs Hulk Hogan It was inspired by the fight Chuck Wepner vs Andre The Giant in 1976
Yeah, Chuck repeatedly hit Ali in the back of the head and at one point actually throws a kick. Wepner was trying to make Ali angry so he would lose his composure and get sloppy. Wepner actually did succeed in pissing Ali off, but it didn't work in his favor. Instead of getting sloppy and making mistakes, the champ just pummeled Wepner in a fit of rage.
Retrosektor no. Stallone was inspired by the underdog story of Wepner when he fought Ali. That’s where the similarities end. Wepner was a dirty fighter and an overall sketchy guy, NOTHING like Rocky.
I definitely agree with your order James, Rocky, Rocky 2, Rocky Balboa, and Creed are all much closer to cinema, films with high degree of artistic merit, whereas I'd call the others movies, spectacle that will entertain you, but you won't give a lot of thought to after the fact. Any film that I see that I think about after I see it for at least a day after seeing it passes the cinema vs. movie threshold. -Nerdarchist Ryan
I try so many other channels for these types of videos and just bleurghh James videos always so on point and watchable for all things cinema and games.
It's a tiny unrelevant thing, but I like how well you pointed at the titles in the final ranking. I mean the name appears right where you put your hand! I know it's no big deal, but I like details.
I love each one in their own way. I like the way James describes the series. "Firm and definitive" are the perfect adjectives to use. That's what i've always liked about them. Each one is a movie of its own and doesn't leave you wondering about whats gonna happen next. Its not easy to make a series in that way and keep people interested in seeing the next one.
When he lost Micky it was really sad, but the saddest part in the series for me was when him and Paulie was driving around town in Rocky Balboa and hitting all the major spots that was important to him and Adrian... that series of scenes broke me. That and him sitting at her grave stone at the end and eventually vanishing. Although I hope I never have to do it, I would like to think I would do the same thing if my wife was to pass far too soon. Beautiful review of a beautiful film franchise.
When I was 4, I came home from a Mother's Day dinner with my family just in time for my Dad to turn in HBO just as the end of Rocky 3 was on. To this day, I get teased by childhood friends for crying because Mr. T lost.
Of all the reviewers, this guy is my favorite. He offers an honest opinion while acknowledging it may not adhere to the status quo. and he keeps a cool head. even his review of Jeckyl and Hyde was tame compared to my friend when he played it. I never heard so many swear words and i didn't realize the durability of a TV screen when hit by an NES controller....many times. Awesome content. May your blades never dull
"I must break you!" Although 5 is garbage, I always loved: "You knocked him down, why don't you try knocking me down." The street fight scene was easily the best scene of the movie.
Great review! I totally agree with your final rankings of the films. Thanks for throwing "Grudge Match" in there as well. I enjoyed that film just as much as the "Rocky" series.
I haven't seen "Creed" (2015), but I'm looking forward to. 6: Rocky IV (1985) 5: Rocky III (1982) 4: Rocky V (1990) 3: Rocky II (1979) 2: Rocky Balboa (2006) 1: Rocky (1976) P. S.: You should make an episode of Rocky (2002) for the Xbox or PS2! And perhaps include Rocky Legends (2004) and Rocky Balboa: The Videogame (2006)!
After a few years, the ranking is essentially the same, except I’ve now seen Creed (2015) and ranked it over Rocky V (1990) and under Rocky II (1979). The catch being that now I haven’t seen Creed II (2018) 😂, but like that other time, I’m also looking forward to.
Fun Fact: Clubber Lang is the only Boxer in the Rocky series that knocked out Rocky Balboa. Apollo and the „Villain“ in Rocky Balboa won via decision, so that doesn‘t count.
I hate when people say he loses at the end,it’s a spilt decision like you said and it’s only heard in the background. They’re both on their feet at the end so it’s hard to say it’s a real loss. I think I’m forgetting it wasn’t a real life sporting event and I’m making excuses like it was. Happens a lot in Philly,we’re not very bright😜. If anyone in the area reads this I’m joking,I’m not calling you and I dumb. See what I mean? “Touchy”is a better way to put it
@@michaelblaine6494 He does lose though so they are correct. Its barely heard in the background because it's not really the point but he still technically loses.
8:08 James: ...there's something about it that I find... James' Brain: don'tsaygaydon'tsaygaydon'tsaygay... James: ...heartwarming... James' Brain: ...and the bullet has been dodged.
Gotta love how the movie came full circle, Creed was absolutely fantastic and Rocky was still a great character in this. I don't know how he does it, but James is just a pleasure to listen to when he's talking about older nostalgia things. Thanks James for being a nice part of our lives that we can just enjoy for who you are.
I still miss running up the stairs to his statue; we used to do that as kids. I took my daughter back there after she was born hoping to do the same, then I saw they moved it to the bottom, but now I hear it's completely removed from the area.
love you James, since 08 when I started with the monster madness and avgn all I can do is work a steady job and start a rocky relationship now you inspired me to get married and still make the horror/western film than is my dream thank you Mr. Rolfe I will keep going till I can make dead in the west. on a film hopefully I can meet you and since we are both Sergio Leone fans maybe you could give me some tips.
I'll always love the Rocky franchise. I've always loved it because every film moved me and because it gave my city a little shine. I love it even more now that it's a franchise that got started on my birthday.
Lost Channel Playthroughs Nah it wasn't that good. The other Rocky films were much better with the drama and fighting contrast while Creed didn't have it. The boxing wasn't nearly as good as Rocky's or the drama.
FilmingNow I agree the other Rocky films were good heck my list it pretty much on the same level as James. But you are entitled to feel the way you do and i wont change that. But I liked Creed. What more can they really do with boxing that hasnt been done in film to make it better....just saying.
the way he so peacefully explains it, no real pressure or need to curse.
naturally entertaining thanks to his passion for it.
thats a rare thing
Travingel especially in this age where every 20plus year old reviewer had to be angry because it's funny and entertaining.
Travingel guess you guys never watched any of his Angry Video Game Nerd reviews...
What the hell are you talking about?......
@7:48; peaceful to rated-R real fast
Travingel - Comedy Gaming he curses a few times in this....
son- “You’re gonna LOVE Picasso!”
Rocky- “Ah i love almost everybody..”
that ending always gets me!
YES!! That's Rocky in a sentence.
I love James' movie reviews! They're so peaceful to listen to ^_^
Same dude! Love your videos! :)
ConnerTheWaffle yep btw I love your channel
ConnerTheWaffle ay! its my boi!
Oh my god Connor the waffle commenting on a cinemassacre video
It is a nice contrast to the nerd's rage.
It's a shame that after all the Nerdwriters, Watch Mojos and other various video essays and top 10's, nobody takes the time to acknowledge that James Rolfe paved the way for movie reviewers online and basically invented an art form.
And game reviews.
Yeah but he is also to blame for the negative asshole critics output too. His refusal to see the GB reboot was his choice to respect, but ignorant and dim sighted. I still respect him, but some of it was lost when he did that.
@chaos lord some may take it a step too far
@chaos lord no. You can criticise, but what I am saying is that he fed the negativity by making a video for something as simple as tweeting out or just keeping it to himself. The movie is whatever anyone wants it to be. No such thing as objective truth or fact when movies are this divisive. Critcism is welcomed and I still welcome it 3 years later, I don't have it in high regards, but as a Ghostbusters fan, seeing and dealing with the chaos at the time, he didn't make it better.
I totally agree with you. James Rolfe was doing all this kinds of videos back in the early days of youtube in 2006. Heck I don't even think they were making money from it until way later when Google came in.
I love how their son ages like, five years while they were away in Russia.
He’s about 5 when they leave, talking like “if a big giant man wanted to beat me up” and one month later, he “made the honour roll!” and is in high school 😑
Rocky IV came out in 1985 and Rocky V came out in 1990 so everybody in the movie including Rocky aged 5 years when they got back from Russia.
@@PoisonousPen That wasn't high school. That was grade school.
@@DefSquadFan THE FRICK IS GRADE SCHOOL
Wow 😳, I’m embarrassed because that comment I guess I just really didn’t know what grade school was
I like how when Mickey dies in Rocky III it's actually really sad. Mickey tells rocky he loves him then dies, and rocky doesn't try to be some stoic badass, he literally weeps. It's a really sad scene.
It's the only scene in the whole franchise that shows Rocky crying that hard. Usually when he cries, they just show him shedding a few tears and that's it.
To me that's still the saddest death in cinema, ever.
James, I just gotta say...Wow. A 21 minute review with hardly any jump cuts is totally unheard of nowadays. Seriously, you killed it man, great work.
and i saw the clip fully i tend to skip around wihen things get long
He probably used a teleprompter.
@@JR-uy2nd more like bullet points and certain scripted parts to keep the subjects on track. The man just loves Rocky.
The thing I noticed rewatching the Rocky franchise is that Stallone was able to capture not only the theme of each era and year the movie was released in, but he captured the vibe of each era. The late 70's, early 80's, the height of the 80's, the urban vibe, decay and recession vibe of the early 90's. That is the thing that stands out the most to me in these movies.
Exactly. The gritty 70s, the frivolous Reagan Era, all the way to the keepin' it real 90s and 00s. Stallone goes from pasty and flabby to tanned and toned.
Yes I've noticed that too. 1&2 = 70s, 3&4 = 80s, 5 = 90s, and 6 = 00s.
Indeed. Totally caught the current vibe and feel.
Rocky III at the end when they fight ... “ding ding” ... a scene I never forget
James is such a compassionate and humble individual. I could hear him talk all day about the things he loves.
Rocky doesn't block punches. He uses his face to wear out his opponents, and then destroys them.
Ever heard of the "Arnold block", Its where you block with your face ;)
Kind of a weird version of rope-a-dope but Instead of taking the hits and absorbing you get hit in the face
He is not human
When I box I hardy keep my hands up but I’ve gotten really good at moving my head and rolling with punches
Legends say that it’s very hard to beat a man who blocks punches with his face...
Humbleness is the perfect word to describe the original Rocky. It's amazing how Rocky was able to transcend boxing fandom. Rocky is the movie for the average Joe. The underdog.
I loved seeing Stallone in Creed. Something about that generation of actors that is just immediately charismatic. Maybe it's the wear on their faces. You can see a glimpse of their life just by looking at them.
Stallone was robbed at the Oscars for his supporting role in 'Creed'. Here is a man who wrote the character over 40 years ago, played it in seven film, directed a huge portion of it, and created a modern day inspirational hero, something that is super rare in Hollywood, and yet for his great performance in 'Creed' he was denied getting a Oscar for Rocky the character. The irony is it kinda plays out exactly like the real situation of Rocky 1 where he did not win the fight but became the peoples winner.
I think he’ll get it in Creed 2
In defence, Mark Rylance gave an amazing and underrated performance in Bridge of Spies. I think it was deserved but it was a major surprise and Rylance himself is one of the best actors that Cinema has.
Rocky III is my favorite Rocky sequel. It shows how your worst enemy becomes your best friend, and I love it when Apollo becomes likable in this sequel he believed in Rocky could defeat Clubber Lang.
agreed 100% I also gotta say to me it has the best training montage. Top to bottom in my opinion it is the best alongside 1 and 2
@@scubasteve5458 yes it does
The reason Rocky won an Oscar and the others didn't is simple. Rocky was a love story about two misfits finding each other. The others were fighting movies.
What about Ricky 1? :-D
Don't be negative.
can’t beat the champ.
he’s the champ.
he already done it
Aghh, Ricky One?!
I hope there's no Ricky TWO!
Don't be negative
Great review James! I love the fact that this channel doesn't need the Angry Video Game Nerd, To survive. It's still got amazing content to keep it going. Good job guys 👌
I agree strongly but I must admit I get extra excited to see a new avgn ep.
+brian zack No doubt about that my friend (:
brian zack and James and Mike Mondays?
Richard yeah but not quite as much as avgn . But just to clarify I watch and enjoy it all
***** How am i a suck up?? I genuinely find these guys content enjoyable.
My favourite part of the Rocky films is in Rocky 4 during the montage when Rocky gets to the top of mountain and yells 'LEGOOOOOO'
Man, he must really miss his Lego back home.
lmao, dude
As someone from Denmark, I feel his pain.
echoing back "MY EGOOOO!"
Seriously?
I pretty sure its because he finally arrive at the top, exausted and then he steps on freakin lego.
You need to let it out.
Greatest Movie critic! best old school gaming channel, best Halloween UA-cam channel... greatest UA-cam channel ever!
i concur
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Lol
Yes
I don't even like sports movies, and yet the Rocky franchise is one of my favorites. Excellent films that go beyond boxing.
In the Creed part Bellew's character is being Tony Bellew , how he acts in the movie is practically how he acts in the ring and promoting fights.
"Creed is angry about losing the last fight." You misspoke--he's angry he got the snot beat out of him, even though he technically won.
tim72184 he's angry for the same reason Tommy was. Neither character got the fame that Rocky did.
Wrong he's angry because everyone is saying that he carried Rocky in order to make money or something
@@marksavoy7076 agreed, he won but he didn't beat him
Rocky IV isn't the best, but it's damn sure my favorite. love the over the top corniness of 80s and early 90s movies like that. Even like the montage scenes which are terrible lol.
@Daniel 1 I agree except for the montages. Those were badass.
The montage scenes are great lmao, you can’t call it a cliche if it literally invented the cliche..
the montages arent terrible. They are pretty well made for how hype and fun they are
I really dislike the propaganda element of the film, though.
@@noodled6145 Propoganda? What do you mean?
Can't believe we just lost Carl Weathers. RIP legend.
Om Shanti
4:57 Didn't Creed win the fight in Rocky 1?
digiprez77 Yeah Creed Won rocky 1 but lost rocky 2
Yeah he did, in a split decision.
digiprez77 no.
Yeah, that was a bit of a mix up, though I'm sure James knows. I guess you could say he sort of lost it in the court of public opinion. He was expected to mop the floor with Rocky and it went the distance, some thought he was saved by the bell, etc. Creed is so angry about the outcome of the fight that I can see where James got mixed up.
well Rocky one in that he got what he wanted out of the fight, which wasn't necessarily actually winning the match.
I remember when I was 13 in English class, and we had to write an essay on a film. I chose Rocky 4. For some reason, I insisted on reading my paper to the class. None of the kids cared, but I remember my teacher Mrs Bell being really kind about it
blitzblotz 5 is the worst one by a long way.
Planetsian Evans a very brave choice! I hope you got a good grade for it. To write about 4.... brava, my dear!👍
do you still have that essay? it would be cool to know what you wrote.
In Rockey 4 he stops the cold war. It cracks me up so much.
Seems like you really ringed your teacher's bell. *ba dum tiss*
I always considered Rocky 1 and Rocky 2 as one long movie. I always watch them back-to-back. They're the best out of the series.
James is such a great person, I've been a fan of his work since 2007
I found him last year, he really is fantastic.
Been following him since he was known as the "Angry Nintendo Nerd". Yes, that was a thing
I saw rocky Balboa in theaters I nearly cried when he visited his wife's grave
I did cry watching it at home
I couldn't wait for that movie, we saw it at the theater too, but sat in the front row because it was full. My girl cried when he was talking to his son outside the restaurant
Rocky V might have been pants, but that line "I didn't hear no bell" is brilliant
And IMO the it gives the best quote in the entire series, "If you ever get hurt, this little angel is going to whisper in your ear. He's going to say, GET UP YOU SON OF A BITCH!! Cause Micky Loves you."
I liked the "Touch me and I'll sue" part.
oxyKILLdone lmfao exactly what I was thinking 🍻
I thought it was a good movie lol... to each his own, i didnt bother with after that one I thought even more rocky was gonna get stale but appearntly creed is good ill check it out
5 wasn't as good because he had to change the story at the last minute since originally Rocky was supposed to die
Rocky: THE only man who ended the Cold War, single-handedly.
***** * sigh *
aligned lemonpussies
nate-the -unlikely Winston Churchill ain't got shit on Rocky.
I think you mean the ONLY THING that ended the Cold War single handedly.
Punkster Daddy Not Rocky, Rocky IV you tosser.
I always found it cool in Rocky IV where during the montage he grows a beard.
Same, and I've always wondered if Stallone actually grew the beard himself, or had a really good makeup artist apply it over the course of shooting the movie.
You also grow more hair down below
Your ass.
He's talking about your ass.
I meant scrotum, but okay
+commodorefan64 pretty sure he just grew it... granted i dont remember how long it was but I can have a full beard after 2 months
James your commentary is always concise and worth a listen, makes a twenty minute vid a breeze to get through.
This is possibly the best movie review I've ever seen. I'd almost go as far as to say it's flawless. It's amazing how James is capable of being so coherent and saying all the things I'd want to say about these movies. One of the best of our time.
See our CREED (2015) movie review here
ua-cam.com/video/yrYsVr5AAMM/v-deo.html
Wheres Ricky 1???
I was very shocked you actually have the same listing order as me.
One, two, and five are obvious, but most people I know say three and four are better than the new ones. Though, I feel like they're living through nostalgia and not being objective.
CentralPacificExplorer sasmikjjo
For some reason, I found this video motivational. I think it'd be interesting if Mike released a video talking about life and all its good times and bad times.
This is a next level comment sir. Congratulations
The only reason I clicked on this video was because I saw James in the thumbnail - the whole channel is turning into the Mike Matei show
The plot to Rocky 4, where you explained he comes out of retirement to exact revenge, i personally like to call that the JCVD plot, or Jean Claude Van Dam plot, seeing as in the 80's, that kind of thing ruled the movie scenes back then, especially in van dam movies. So they were all cashing in on that hype of the time.
this is 1985 and van damme debuted in 88 for real
yea, they definetley gave in to a lot of hype in rocky 4, i mean, the robot at the begining? really? it was clearly because of the demand of scifi movies at that time
Rocky IV is my least favorite of them all for how cartoonish, exaggerated and silly it is. It is just anti-soviet propaganda like Rambo III, and Rocky is basically turned into just another action hero.
Thanks for putting together such a nice retrospective on the Rocky series. You've inspired me to see the films again. It's been a couple of decades for some, but that's part of the fun.
1:38-1:44.; You can literally tell that as the 'Rocky' series went on, Sylvester Stallone got older--yet, he had an amazing physique & was in amazing shape in all of them.
tthomaselli2 yeah he kept evolving as he got older.while most of us regress
@@wnerko7484 It's called hard workouts, decent nutrition, and steroids.
Personally Rocky Balboa is my number 1, which is crazy really because no one expected this to be any good including myself but it totally was.
there is 2 Rocky speech there, with his son and with lawyers, both are great
TriksterHD Now listen closely...
Yeah, Balboa us definitely the best.
Balboa was good, but it is madness to suggest that it is better than the original. The original Rocky is a masterpiece.
Since this is the 40th anniversary of Rocky, will James Rolfe have all six Rocky films plus Creed and Grudge Match playing on TVs in his house at the same time? Just like with the AVGN Rocky Master System review?
Been watching your videos since I was a kid in primary school. I remember learning your theme song on guitar, was really neat. I gotta say your recent videos are a long time coming. VERY refreshing, and that's coming from a 2006 viewer. Well, might have been a bit later than that but 10 years is a long time so I really don't remember
This video made me cry. I love the Rocky series so much.
in Rocky 2 Apollo had 2 kids so where are they in creed
dude that aint nice.lol.funny but not nice
Marlin Benson
Butthurt much?
I think the son is the trainer at the gym wheeler trained at
@@thannydevito8991 no, that was Duke's son
Probably Dead like Apollo
One of the best movies of all time.
Yo Adrian!
All of them except 5, and even that one wasn't terrible.
Rocky V was great I thought. I don't care what anybody says. Stallones real life son in the movie was great i thought. He had great chemistry with Rock & Adrian. It was very believable that he was their real son. Rocky's son in Rocky 6 was a poseur. The song at the end of Rock V was by music legend Elton John. It made me cry. I don't know what people are talking about. The whole movie was great! on the back of the cover, a movie critic said "A Powerhouse 10." That's what I thought.
James Muller they're not gonna put a negative review on the cover moron... LMFAO, just because you like it doesn't mean it was good and the bullshit review from some random critic got it right. smh, you can't be THAT much of a sheep can you?
I actually like Rocky V. I bought it on VHS with my own money when I was younger and the one I watched the most. Eventually I bought Rocky lV and watched that one many times. I didn't watch Rocky 1,2, or 3 until I was in high school. Of course V is not the best, but I still love it because it's part of my childhood.
40 years, holy fuckin shit, this movie series is more than double my age
Deathbrewer "young as shit"
Don't know why but kekd.
+Deathbrewer ikr, it's like saying "I was born yesterday, but this film came out way before I was born!" like no shit.
"It's absurd how many hits he takes to the face without blocking and still wins somehow"
Summary of Tony Bellew's (The antagonist in the recent Creed movie) real life boxing career
Man, i just love Jame's movie reviews. He needs to do more like this!
I love James rolfes movie reviews. great to listen to at work, and keeps me up to do my job. James, thank you for doing this and great job on the reviews!
Rocky V: What were they thinking?!
Head like a fucking orange.
do i hate mars bars
Teeny Tiny Asakura Do we need em?
$$$$
It was really fun hearing James talk about something other than horror movies. I love the Rocky movies, and I agree wholeheartedly with James in this video.
James is fucking incredible at reviews, so soothing and relaxing to listen to. No cuts or exaggerations.
I grew up in that neighborhood, the Kensington section of Philly and I hung on Rocky's block, right out front of 1818 Tusculum street. My friend Still lives across the street from his house. And I was born in the Hospital right around the corner and baptized in the church in the movie. So needless to say that these movies hold a Very Special place in my heart as well as a lot of my friends and family. Thanks again for making another Awesome Video Review.
"I must break you..."
Love that line
Also see Angry Video Game Nerd - Rocky
ua-cam.com/video/v7poR6G3hec/v-deo.html
What about Ricky 1?
He probably doesn't wanna re-review that one lol
Cinemassacre I guess everybody is asleep. Thanks for this video guys
Maybe we'll get an angry movie nerd series someday.
Great reviews James. I like the direction ur channel is going in. What's the plan for Shitsmas?
Thanks James!! I forgot how surprisingly decent "rocky balboa" was. I appreciate your insights into a franchise you care so deeply about.
I was looking for it so long and i hoped that there might be some precise reviews of the whole franchise - and James, damnit - you did it! Thank you very much!
My mom saw Rocky (original) in the theater 23 times! It was absolutely GREAT movie. Movie was about a guy who believes he was born a nothing & was going to die a nothing, but fate changed everything. A nothing took an opportunity, that was meant as a joke by the champ, & went out to earn RESPECT: SELF-RESPECT.
One of the GREATEST MOVIES OF ALL TIME.
1, 2 & Balboa are my favs. The speech in Balboa about how hard life is, is truly AWESOME because it's so true!
what about rocky 7 adrian's revenge?
furydeath ha! simpsons reference nice
AAADRIIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!
CLASSSICCC. lol
Roman numerals are important.
Rocky VIII: Rocky May Need Glasses
+Collin Adams he uses glasses in creed
Grudge Match is very underrated.
Mike Giampiccolo Its more of a tribute to Sylvesters Rocky and Deniros Raging Bull. Great comedy movie.
I agree
I bought it, it is a piece of history.
Rocky is by far the best in the series, it as an almost innocent charm and grittiness to it, that is so endearing and inspiring. He's an underdog not only in the ring but in life itself, struggling with loneliness, and without real direction to his unfilled life.. It's a love story that packs a real punch, it as real heart and soul at its core,....the coming together of two lost souls, finding happiness and a real meaning to their lives....classic
James, a little extra bit on Rocky IV. When Stallone and Lundgren were shooting the fight sequences, Stallone wanted Lundgren to hit him for real . . . which resulted in Stallone receiving a trip to the hospital as a result. Never ask He-Man to hit you for real. You've probably heard this by now, but I wanted to share anyway. Great vid, mate.
I used to have a huge crush on adrian as a young man
Me too!
Great Video, thanks! :)
My ranking:
Rocky
Rocky Balboa
Rocky 2
Creed
Rocky 3
Rocky 5
Rocky 4
III and IV were the best for me. They were the definitive classics, sort of like comic book mythical atmosphere.
Rocky Balboa was a great film too
1 and 4 for me
They were about a bloated Rocky
2 and 3 For me. They are very emotional.
Honestly whenever I hear the story of Rocky I just immediately feel like I'm going to cry, The Rocky series is easily the most motivating franchise in movie history, It's not just about a Boxer but the values of life and death there's so many moral dilemma in the film. I loved in Rocky 3 just seeing how Lang character tore Rocky up so bad that Rocky didn't believe in himself anymore, he actually felt afraid but in the words of Adrian "There's nothing wrong with being afraid" Also that training scene in Rocky IV just the way Rocky is using his normal surroundings to help him get better while Drago used machine made equipment was great as well as the whole thing about nations being together. The Rocky series I can say is the one series where ALL the films are good.
Chuck Wepner is real Rocky , he almost went fifteen rounds with world heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali in a 1975 title fight. Rocky vs Hulk Hogan It was inspired by the fight Chuck Wepner vs Andre The Giant in 1976
Retrosektor No it's Joe Frazier
Facts! Probably...?
Yeah, Chuck repeatedly hit Ali in the back of the head and at one point actually throws a kick. Wepner was trying to make Ali angry so he would lose his composure and get sloppy.
Wepner actually did succeed in pissing Ali off, but it didn't work in his favor. Instead of getting sloppy and making mistakes, the champ just pummeled Wepner in a fit of rage.
Retrosektor no. Stallone was inspired by the underdog story of Wepner when he fought Ali. That’s where the similarities end. Wepner was a dirty fighter and an overall sketchy guy, NOTHING like Rocky.
I saw that 30 for 30 too
I definitely agree with your order James, Rocky, Rocky 2, Rocky Balboa, and Creed are all much closer to cinema, films with high degree of artistic merit, whereas I'd call the others movies, spectacle that will entertain you, but you won't give a lot of thought to after the fact. Any film that I see that I think about after I see it for at least a day after seeing it passes the cinema vs. movie threshold. -Nerdarchist Ryan
I try so many other channels for these types of videos and just bleurghh
James videos always so on point and watchable for all things cinema and games.
It's a tiny unrelevant thing, but I like how well you pointed at the titles in the final ranking. I mean the name appears right where you put your hand!
I know it's no big deal, but I like details.
Thanks for making this, James. Rocky is my all time favourite movie franchise, so this was fun to watch.
I love each one in their own way. I like the way James describes the series. "Firm and definitive" are the perfect adjectives to use. That's what i've always liked about them. Each one is a movie of its own and doesn't leave you wondering about whats gonna happen next. Its not easy to make a series in that way and keep people interested in seeing the next one.
Wait a minute... I've always liked Rocky 5. I've even watched it multiple times over the past 30 years and I still like it.
When he lost Micky it was really sad, but the saddest part in the series for me was when him and Paulie was driving around town in Rocky Balboa and hitting all the major spots that was important to him and Adrian... that series of scenes broke me. That and him sitting at her grave stone at the end and eventually vanishing. Although I hope I never have to do it, I would like to think I would do the same thing if my wife was to pass far too soon. Beautiful review of a beautiful film franchise.
When I was 4, I came home from a Mother's Day dinner with my family just in time for my Dad to turn in HBO just as the end of Rocky 3 was on. To this day, I get teased by childhood friends for crying because Mr. T lost.
Of all the reviewers, this guy is my favorite. He offers an honest opinion while acknowledging it may not adhere to the status quo. and he keeps a cool head. even his review of Jeckyl and Hyde was tame compared to my friend when he played it. I never heard so many swear words and i didn't realize the durability of a TV screen when hit by an NES controller....many times. Awesome content. May your blades never dull
"I must break you!"
Although 5 is garbage, I always loved: "You knocked him down, why don't you try knocking me down." The street fight scene was easily the best scene of the movie.
Great review! I totally agree with your final rankings of the films. Thanks for throwing "Grudge Match" in there as well. I enjoyed that film just as much as the "Rocky" series.
excellent review. My life has been one long montage lately so the timing on this was perfect.
I haven't seen "Creed" (2015), but I'm looking forward to.
6: Rocky IV (1985)
5: Rocky III (1982)
4: Rocky V (1990)
3: Rocky II (1979)
2: Rocky Balboa (2006)
1: Rocky (1976)
P. S.: You should make an episode of Rocky (2002) for the Xbox or PS2! And perhaps include Rocky Legends (2004) and Rocky Balboa: The Videogame (2006)!
creed was pretty interesting, i recommend watching it
Leonardo Ruenes James and Mike already played Rocky for PS2 as well as the game being in the AVGN episode game glitches
Leo Ruenes I would put rocky balboa after 4. It’s waaaaaay better than iii
After a few years, the ranking is essentially the same, except I’ve now seen Creed (2015) and ranked it over Rocky V (1990) and under Rocky II (1979). The catch being that now I haven’t seen Creed II (2018) 😂, but like that other time, I’m also looking forward to.
I'm disappointed with you putting IV last, but I hope you change. If you can change, and I can change, EVERYBODY CAN CHANGE!
Fun Fact: Clubber Lang is the only Boxer in the Rocky series that knocked out Rocky Balboa. Apollo and the „Villain“ in Rocky Balboa won via decision, so that doesn‘t count.
Tommy Gunn did if you count to 10 lol but point taken because that's a street fight
I hate when people say he loses at the end,it’s a spilt decision like you said and it’s only heard in the background. They’re both on their feet at the end so it’s hard to say it’s a real loss. I think I’m forgetting it wasn’t a real life sporting event and I’m making excuses like it was. Happens a lot in Philly,we’re not very bright😜. If anyone in the area reads this I’m joking,I’m not calling you and I dumb. See what I mean? “Touchy”is a better way to put it
@@michaelblaine6494 He does lose though so they are correct. Its barely heard in the background because it's not really the point but he still technically loses.
8:08 James: ...there's something about it that I find...
James' Brain: don'tsaygaydon'tsaygaydon'tsaygay...
James: ...heartwarming...
James' Brain: ...and the bullet has been dodged.
Gotta love how the movie came full circle, Creed was absolutely fantastic and Rocky was still a great character in this.
I don't know how he does it, but James is just a pleasure to listen to when he's talking about older nostalgia things. Thanks James for being a nice part of our lives that we can just enjoy for who you are.
I still miss running up the stairs to his statue; we used to do that as kids. I took my daughter back there after she was born hoping to do the same, then I saw they moved it to the bottom, but now I hear it's completely removed from the area.
If he dies he dies best line in Rocky
Rocky 1 is the best fighting drama of all time :o
Derek Woods Agree.
Raul Julia as M. Bison, what an epic villain.
Raging Bull would like a word with you.
ehhhhhh for sports yea but theres still the godfather
Rocky 3 was more fun though... I mean come on, Hulk Hogan and Mr.T :)
love you James, since 08 when I started with the monster madness and avgn all I can do is work a steady job and start a rocky relationship now you inspired me to get married and still make the horror/western film than is my dream thank you Mr. Rolfe I will keep going till I can make dead in the west. on a film hopefully I can meet you and since we are both Sergio Leone fans maybe you could give me some tips.
single now and just need a mentor.
The title is a good start to your dream. Dead In The West is a great title, sounds like something I'd watch. Good luck with your dream man!
Dead In The West is a fucking great name for anything. Hopefully you make your movie, I need to see it!
I love the call out to the Nerd vs Nostalgia Critic during his Rocky 3 review here, nice touch! My hat's off to you, good sir.
I'll always love the Rocky franchise. I've always loved it because every film moved me and because it gave my city a little shine. I love it even more now that it's a franchise that got started on my birthday.
I like how James isn't a movie snob and can appreciate the good in movies
Rocky
Creed
Rocky 4
Rocky 2
Rocky Balboa
Rocky 3
Rocky 5
Creed caught me off guard as well it was a great film.
Lost Channel Playthroughs Nah it wasn't that good. The other Rocky films were much better with the drama and fighting contrast while Creed didn't have it. The boxing wasn't nearly as good as Rocky's or the drama.
FilmingNow I agree the other Rocky films were good heck my list it pretty much on the same level as James. But you are entitled to feel the way you do and i wont change that. But I liked Creed. What more can they really do with boxing that hasnt been done in film to make it better....just saying.
Lost Channel Playthroughs i agree with the last sentence
These are my favorite kind of cinemassacre videos. James alone talking to his fans.
I have the best memories with this franchise, watched them all with my grandpa last summer definitely a memory I’ll cherish forever
Also. the hulk Hogan scene is to make a point that he's just doing things for show and taking fighting less seriously now
Man I wanna watch grudge match now! That totally passed me by!
5:35-5:54.; Keep in mind that 'Rocky 2' was also made during the late-1970's & was released in 1979.
James Rolfe, you are uniquely worthy of reviewing Rocky. I'd love to see the montage where you prepare to review the whole franchise. Well done!
James, I really love it when you do reviews for movies that have such a personal meaning for you. Thanks a lot! :) Greetings from Germany!