Rocky Anthology

The Rocky anthology is arguably one of the most recognized film series in US History. Starring Sylvester Stallone as the Italian Stallion Rocky Balboa, the films in the Rocky anthology chronicle Rocky Balboa’s life from a small-time local boxer making end meets by being a collector for a loan shark, to his rise as world heavyweight champion, to his retirement due to brain damage, and his one last hurrah he has as an aged and widowed  fighter. All in all, the Rocky films have grossed over $1 billion worldwide. The Rocky anthology is known for several memorable key dramatic moments which I will discuss in further detail. Here are my top 5 Rocky anthology moments:

This scene inspired me to make this clip above and shows how unorthodox Rocky’s training was at times.

This scene comes from the first Rocky film in the Rocky anthology and features a shy Adrian Pennino in the apartment of small-time boxer Rocky Balboa after going on a date at the ice skating rink. Adrian seems uncomfortable at first being alone with Rocky in his apartment but Rocky is able to help her open up and gain her trust in this memorable scene.

Occurring in the events of Rocky II, after going through a dogfight the first 14 rounds against undefeated current heavyweight champ, Apollo Creed, Rocky is able to capture the title in this epic rematch against two gladiators. This picture shows the final moments of the fight as Rocky and Apollo both fall to the mat as Rocky hits Apollo with a left hook. Rocky is eventually able to get up before the 10 count while Apollo is counted out.

Longtime rival and friend of Rocky, Apollo Creed, succumbs to death after underestimating and under training for his match against the Soviet monster Ivan Drago. Rocky, in honor of Apollo Creed, travels to Russia and is able to avenge the loss of his friend by defeating the seemingly indestructible Ivan Drago in a match for the ages.

In the most memorable and saddest scene in the Rocky anthology is the passing away of Mick, Rocky’s longtime trainer, mentor, and father figure. His gravelly voice, intense dimeanor, and popular catchphrases made him a recognizable figure in the series. In his final moment before passing away in Rocky III, he tells Rocky “I love ya, kid.”