Rocky

An uncomplicated hero steadfastly walking toward fulfilling his American dream with an appropriate dose of genre clichés, sweat, blood, and an easily predictable ending. Given that when it comes to Sylvester Stallone's acting talent - how can I put it diplomatically - I am, let's say, reserved, and I really don't like boxing as a sport and entertainment (if I had to choose between having dinner with Mike Tyson or Hannibal Lecter, I would invite the latter without hesitation), I struggle to find a reason to give more than 2 stars. Overall impression: 45%. (19/11/2010)

The naive story of the great American dream coming true is not Rocky's main issue. On the contrary, despite its simplicity, it is very believable. The problem lies in the overall execution, starting with the somewhat lacking writing skills of Sylvester Stallone and continuing through the direction to the acting performances. The first half is absolutely (!) unnecessary, the attempt to delve into the psychology of the characters is wasted due to the lack of directorial innovation, and boredom is inevitable, leading to yawning. In the second half, the plot and pace pick up towards a more promising potential, which, however, is again squandered due to the constant repetition of lines about a little insignificant man who was offered a life-changing opportunity (it only needed to be said once!). The final match doesn't surprise in any way, not only with its outcome but also with the dry impression of the used form. I would like to nostalgically close my eyes, but for some reason, I just can't do it. (06/12/2005)

This film about the American dream is all the more natural, convincing and powerful the less it tries to be spectacular and cater to the audience at all costs. It is the humble inception of a legend, not yet aware of its future historical importance. Rocky is the purest film definition of Sylvester Stallone, both as an actor and as a person. (18/11/2009)

The years and Stallone’s reputation may have made Rocky a legend among sport dramas, but as someone who doesn’t like the genre, I have to say that it’s just a run-of-the-mill movie. It’s well made, yes, but also ordinary, and even uninteresting. I don’t feel at all like watching the entire saga. (27/05/2010)

A film that bestowed immortality on its lead actor and etched itself into the eternal subconscious of a fanbase that other high-budget films can only dream of. Sylvester Stallone wrote the role to fit him to perfection, and it shows. Even his sappy moral lectures and life advice have something to them, and his relentless work and preparation for the final, emotion-packed fight is the most impressive thing Hollywood has ever offered in its sports section – until Warrior, that is. (08/06/2012)