Director Peter Farrelly’s latest film, “I Play Rocky,” explores the creation of the iconic boxing drama through the eyes of actor Anthony Ippolito, who portrays a young Sylvester Stallone. The film examines how Stallone, then a struggling performer in his late twenties, conceived, wrote, and fought to star in what would become one of cinema’s most celebrated productions.
Ippolito delivers a standout performance that goes beyond mere impression work. His physical resemblance to Stallone proves striking, capturing the actor’s distinctive facial features and distinctive vocal qualities—the gravelly tone, deliberate pacing, and characteristic speech patterns. Rather than relying solely on mimicry, Ippolito embodies Stallone’s determined and resilient personality during this pivotal period of his life.
Set in 1974 New York City, the narrative follows Stallone’s journey from desperate poverty and minor acting roles to creative inspiration. Living in a Times Square hotel and struggling to find meaningful work, he eventually meets a supportive woman who encourages him to write original material suited to his talents. The film captures how personal circumstances and determination drove the creation of a cultural phenomenon.
Farrelly crafts an accessible crowd-pleaser that taps into decades of affection for the original “Rocky.” The film reveals how the unconventional circumstances surrounding the movie’s creation ultimately shaped its enduring impact on cinema, celebrating both the film’s legacy and the persistence required to bring it to life.
Originally reported by Variety →
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