FILM REVIEW: I PLAY ROCKY (12A) ESP RATING: 4/5

The underdog story behind the ultimate underdog story.

I’ve always been fascinated by the story behind the making of Rocky.

It’s one of those films where the real-life journey of getting it made is almost as remarkable as the story itself. And that’s exactly what makes I Play Rocky such an enjoyable watch.

Helmed by Peter Farrelly – co-director and writer of the Oscar-winning Green Book – this biographical drama takes us back to the seventies, when a young, unknown actor called Sylvester Stallone was struggling to make a name for himself in Hollywood. Having written a screenplay about a down-on-his-luck boxer who gets one shot at greatness, Stallone was determined to play the lead himself. The problem? The studios had other ideas.

Just like with Stallone, this film is headlined by another relative newcomer in Anthony Ippilito, who plays the iconic actor as he battles to get Rocky made and, more importantly, convince the people holding the purse strings that he was the right man to play the character he’d created.

Without giving too much away, Stallone was in a desperate financial situation while writing the screenplay. He was even homeless at one point and had to sell his beloved dog for money. Then came the struggle to get the film off the ground, with studios keen to buy his script but far less enthusiastic about having an unknown actor in the starring role.

It’s a remarkable story, because the screenplay itself is an underdog tale, but getting it from page to screen was an underdog story in its own right.

I’m a sucker for a good fly-on-the-wall film, particularly when it takes us behind the scenes and shows what goes into bringing something to life. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching somebody fight for their creative vision when everyone around them is telling them it can’t be done. And much like watching the original Rocky, I found myself getting swept up in it all. You know the feeling: that temptation to get out of your seat, stick your fist in the air and cheer. I Play Rocky gave me those exact same vibes.

A huge part of that is due to Ippolito, who is phenomenal as Stallone. He’s a relatively fresh face, but you’d never know it from this performance. Before long, you stop seeing an actor playing Stallone and start believing you’re watching the man himself. He captures his mannerisms, determination and vulnerability brilliantly. I’d be very surprised if his name doesn’t start appearing in award conversations.

The film won't necessarily appeal to everyone. I think it’ll particularly resonate with two audiences: those who are already fans of Rocky, and anyone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story about the film industry. If neither of those things interests you, this probably isn’t going to change your mind. But if they do, there's plenty to enjoy.

As this rags-to-riches tale punches well above its weight. 

ESP Rating: 4/5

Mike Clarke

Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough & Odeon Luxe Peterborough, Out Now

Cast: Anthony Ippolito, Annasophia Robb, Toby Kebbell, PJ Byrne, Matt Dillon, Stephan James, Tracy Letts, Jay Duplass, Robert Morgan, Saul Stein & Kiki Seto

Running Time: 2 Hrs 8 Mins

Director: Peter Farrelly

Film Review Venue: Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough

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