Rocky

There are two things that, in my opinion, make 'Rocky' iconic: Sylvester Stallone and that iconic theme by Bill Conti, "Gonna Fly Now". A theme so iconic that I used it in my first short film without having seen the film it came from. A mistake that I have, clearly, rectified.

'Rocky' is a film about self-respect. It's a film about pushing yourself. constantly fighting, always getting stronger, and not letting yourself get pushed around by the seemingly bigger man. Sylvester Stallone plays the titular character and gives a brilliant performance. Rocky, the Italian Stallion, is an uneducated boxer, but he's a role model with street smarts. Throughout the film, we see Rocky train and get ready for a big boxing fight, which takes place at the climax of the film. It's a brutal fight, you feel the punches and the various injuries the boxers endure, and that's thanks to the directing of John G. Avildsen. Avildsen is a brilliant director, with the film being filled with beautiful cinematography, and some great minimalistic shots.

As stated earlier, "Gonna Fly Now" is incredibly iconic. The theme tune is used throughout the film, but mainly during the final training montage, which is arguably the best training montage in everything ever. When Rocky manages to run up those steps, it's a joyous, fist-raising moment for not just him, but for the audience. 'Rocky' is a simple film, yes, but I can say without a doubt that by the time the audience sees that incredible training montage, they'll all be rooting for Rocky, the Italian Satallion.

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