franco-10

Fortunately I had decided to watch the original Rocky a few days before seeing this last one, and I am glad I did since there are lots of references to characters and events from the first movie. So I would recommend seeing the original first. I actually believe Rocky Balboa is better than the original! One of the main reasons for this are the impromptu speeches he gives to the boxing commission and to his son, speeches full of real-life advise that really are coming from what Stallone has learned in his own personal life. Also the character of Rocky Balboa has obviously matured, but still retains his sense of humor and likability.

I just find it hard to believe that Andy Griffith received no kudos or award nominations for his role as Lonesome Rhodes in this movie. His performance is quite amazing. I think that because he played such an obnoxious person, one that we really come to dislike, that people confused the role with the actor. I just saw it on TV (Dec, 2002), and maybe the world of 1957 just was not ready for this kind of realism.

I think this movie will become an all-time classic. The story is unique and the music is grand, and there is even some philosophy thrown in. This is a movie that reaches your soul. It's not for those who thrive on special effects, sex, and violence - that probably accounts for the disparity in some of the reviews. Personally I rank this with the greatest movies I have ever seen.