I Play Rocky: A New Biopic
In an exciting new film project titled ‘I Play Rocky,’ Anthony Ippolito will take on the role of the legendary actor Sylvester Stallone, exploring the fascinating journey behind the iconic character Rocky Balboa. The biopic, helmed by director Peter Farrelly, is poised to start filming this October, with an official release in theaters still to be announced. Stallone himself shared the news on Instagram, expressing his enthusiastic support:
“Filming starts October 15, and I wish them all the luck in the world. It’s a wonderful script!”
The Journey of Rocky Balboa
This film promises to delve into Stallone’s relentless quest to portray the underdog boxer Rocky Balboa at a time when major studios favored other actors for the role. In the mid-1970s, Stallone faced significant pressure to sell his screenplay despite being offered lucrative deals. His insistence on playing the role ultimately led to the creation of one of the highest-grossing sports franchises in cinematic history, amassing over $1.6 billion globally.
Ippolito, recognized for his performance as Al Pacino in ‘The Offer’ on Paramount+, is stepping into Stallone’s legendary shoes, fittingly capturing the film’s theme of perseverance and ambition against industry odds. At just 26 years old, he will embody Rocky’s tenacity, which has profound significance for Stallone. Farrelly aims to showcase not only the trials of an aspiring actor but also the rise of a cultural phenomenon that motivated countless individuals around the world.
Stallone’s Reflections on Ownership
Despite the cinematic triumph of the Rocky franchise, Stallone has expressed his disappointment regarding ownership issues. In a candid interview with Variety, Stallone voiced his frustrations over the contracts he signed in the 1970s, which did not grant him a share of the franchise’s profits despite his creative contributions. He remarked:
“When I finally confronted them (in 1985, before Rocky IV), I said, ‘Does it bother you guys that I’ve written every word, I’ve choreographed it, I’ve been loyal to you, I’ve promoted it, directed it, and I don’t have 1% that I could leave for my children?’ And the quote was, ‘You got paid.’ And that was the end of the conversation.”
The Legacy of Rocky Balboa
The trajectory of Stallone’s career parallels that of Rocky himself—marked by struggles, underestimation, and relentless determination for recognition. ‘I Play Rocky’ aims to highlight this journey, depicting how an aspiring actor, burdened with financial struggles, transformed a boxing narrative into Hollywood success. The film’s production underscores the irony that although Stallone crafted the story of Rocky Balboa, he has not maintained financial control over its lucrative legacy. For many fans, Stallone will always be the face of the Italian Stallion, remembered for sprinting up the steps of Philadelphia, regardless of the complexities surrounding the franchise’s earnings.
About the Author
Phil Jay has spent more than 15 years as a dedicated boxing journalist. Since 2010, he has served as the Editor-in-Chief at World Boxing News, gaining firsthand experiences by interviewing numerous world champions and covering major boxing events.
