Rocky Balboa

Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that! - Rocky Balboa

Wow! What an absolutely great movie! I was impressed to learn that Sly wrote and directed this film himself. He is just terriffic in this film. He is a seasoned professional that you cannot help but love. There are so many throw backs being released lately, you never know what to expect, but this was a real class act. I also enjoyed the Rocky movies when I was younger, but this one is quite different. With the exception of the final fight, which was filmed brilliantly, it wasn't really a "boxing" movie. It is a story of a man coming to terms with the death of the love of his life, the twilight years of his own life, and strengthening a fractured relationship with his only son. Sly was heartwarming in the movie. It was impossible not to feel for his character and want to know someone just like him. From a technical perspective the cinematography of the big fight was an amazing combination of a real fight on HBO and filming techniques akin to Sin City. It's really something to see. Overall, it's just a really good quality film that has a powerful message about the worth of every person and finding the courage to never give up. Five Stars, all the way!