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Updated with a Message from Sly!!! Stallone Responds To Talkbackers... a bunch of them...

Sly! by jack-torrance	Dec 24th, 2006 02:02:09 PM
You're the best! Congratulations on the great opening gross! $22m is unheard of for a fifth sequel! You would make my Christmas if you mention me as you have some other talkbackers! Have a great Christmas! I can't wait to see Rocky Balboa when it hits the UK on January 19th!! Take care!
Hey Sly by Bobo_Vision	Dec 24th, 2006 02:05:19 PM
I watched Rocky Balboa and loved it. I saw it with a friend of mine I hadn't seen in years, and when we were ten, I sold him some Rocky IV posters I got from a fanzine magazine I bought. I walked a half hour in the Canadian snow when I was ten to go see Rocky 4, and have loved it since. And I often watch the training scene before I work out for inspiration. So all the women in the New York area would like to thank you for my beautiful phsyique. Kidding. Thanks for your work, and much respect to your art. Cheers friend.
u just made my xmas by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 02:05:35 PM
Amazing...absolutley amazing. Have a great xmas Sly and Rocky Balboa will win the box office because like Mickey we all love ya!
It ain't over 'til it's over! by jack-torrance	Dec 24th, 2006 02:06:28 PM
Sly has laid some blunt force trauma on the US box office! Rocky Balboa rules! Spread the word and get it to $100m!
God bless ya Sly by Neo Zeed	Dec 24th, 2006 02:14:13 PM
You're a legend, and I look forward to Rambo 4. You really know how to make an 80's kid like me a happy clam. Merry Christmas.
~~~~~~~ YO! HARRY ~~~~~~~~~~~ by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 02:16:46 PM
I dare ya Harry, I really dare ya to come out of your corner and splash a braveheart type speech across your web page about ROCKY BALBOA! Come on Harry, you got the medium to pick up this fight and take it to the next level! Make all the AICN fans watch this not twice but as much as possible. Hell why don'tcha run a competition of the most views (proven by tickets) till end of Jan and the winner gets a the first signed RAMBO 4 poster!
Yo Sly! Merry Christmas! by Yack Backer	Dec 24th, 2006 02:17:03 PM
Thanks for the shoutout! That was unbelievably cool. And your generosity is unparalleled. God bless you.
Fucking awesome by Wolfman57	Dec 24th, 2006 02:20:08 PM
I've been reading the Q&A's and all of Sly's messages and I must say, you're an awesome guy Mr. Stallone. I always appreciate when a celebrity can reach out to their fans and interact on the "common man" level a la Kevin Smith on his message boards. I always like an actor who doesn't take himself too seriously and make it obvious that they enjoy what they do (pretentious actors like Russel Crowe just irk me to death). I still haven't seen ROCKY BALBOA, but trust me, sir, I will.
Oh, and Merry Christmas! by Wolfman57	Dec 24th, 2006 02:20:50 PM
and a Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year!
Sly, about RAMBO... by jack-torrance	Dec 24th, 2006 02:25:44 PM
...is IMDB accurate in listing Ken Kercheval (who played Cliff Barnes in Dallas) in the cast for RAMBO IV? I hope you get to work with Scorsese some time. I've always wanted to see you in one of his films. That would be fantastic!
How can you not be impressed with this? by Fernwick_	Dec 24th, 2006 02:26:32 PM
Going to see it on the weekend #2, if anything to help bump the 2nd weekend. :) Merry Christmas Sly!
Sly by SnakesOnABicycle	Dec 24th, 2006 02:28:32 PM
I loved the movie, and literally cried 3 different times throughout, but I had a few problems and wondered if you could address them. I thought the opening was weak. It starts off with Rocky Balboa in big letters with the music, but then goes right into a boring fight with Tarver dismantling an opponent. I thought it would have worked much better just opening on the fight with Tarver and whatever bum he was wailing on, have the announcer say something to the effect that the young champ is still looking for a real challenge, but who? etc. - AND THEN have the big music intro with the Rocky title. Also, there was a shot through a doorway into the freezer with all the hanging meat, and while we get to watch Rocky pummel cow during the training montage, I thought those shots would have been best saved to be intercut with the fight between he and Mason Dixon. Maybe just allude to Rocky training that way again in the middle of the movie with that same shot, but also hearing Rocky pounding away O.S., maybe even see a few pieces swinging back and forth from the blows in and out of frame. - Now, I know I'm just armchairing, and probably doing an annoying job of it, but just stuff like that, little tweaks that you wish you made after the film's locked... does it keep you up at night? What are the little things that you'd change now that you've seen the movie in a theatre with an auidence? I only ask, and make the comments, because I cared so much about the film... think of me as a less drunk Paulie.
wow we are blessed ... by JeanLuc Dickhard	Dec 24th, 2006 02:34:23 PM
this way too cool ...... thanks sly ..
Caught a screening of it on Friday by movieman742	Dec 24th, 2006 02:39:00 PM
Wow, I gotta say that movie was amazing. I just loved it. What a way to end something that you grew up with. Just wanted to say Thanks Sly for bringing the Rock to his rightful end.
Rambo by The Dum Guy	Dec 24th, 2006 02:40:56 PM
I wonder if Sly is gonna do this kinda thing with Rambo 4 (as far as the talkbacks are concerned)?
Much more respect for the man by Pr_Frink	Dec 24th, 2006 02:41:23 PM
I was very skeptical about the movie and this whole talkback stuff but man he pulled it off on both fronts. Very self-effacing and honest, both him and the movie. And I will say that the last shot during the credits of Rocky standing there was the best possible shot to end it on. Congratulations Mr. Stallone. Very nice work.
Merry Christmas Stallone!! by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 24th, 2006 02:42:10 PM
$20-some for the 5 day opening is pretty good. But it ain't over 'til it's over....we'll have to see what kind of legs this movie has. The thing I have seen, and I am sure you could relate to, is that when it comes to movie choices Dad vs. Kid....the kid usually wins haha. So if dad wants to see Rocky Balboa but little daughter/son wants to go see Night at the Museum or something else, then daddy's got to go watch the kiddie movie! I'm trying to say I'm sure there are a lot of Rocky fans who have yet gotten the chance to see RB. Have a good holiday!
This is getting crazy now. by jollysleeve	Dec 24th, 2006 02:42:17 PM
In a good way, of course. These past couple weeks with the Stallone stuff has transformed AICN into a delightful bizarro-universe version of itself. Today's post was the capper.
NICE by THE KNIGHT	Dec 24th, 2006 02:48:51 PM
I love how he's putting fellow Talk backers on blast... Sly ain't know punk!
and I thought I loved the man last night.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 24th, 2006 02:50:12 PM
this is just unbelievable. I never get star struck but the very idea that we are having a dialogue with one of the biggest movie icons in history is just amazing. Mr. Stallone, thanks again.
I was disappointed to see it drop like 50 percent today by Cotton McKnight	Dec 24th, 2006 02:53:16 PM
but every other movie took the same hit because it's Christmas Eve. I don't know how long the movie will be in 3,000 plus theaters, but I really think it could go the distance as long as people have a place to see it. I could easily see it approaching the 100 million mark by February. EVERYONE is going on and on about the movie.
Sly - how is your youngest son- Sergio? by Joy68	Dec 24th, 2006 03:03:50 PM
Hello Sly, 1st off LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the movie and plan on seeing it a few more times at least at the theater. I've been a huge fan since I was a little girl and have my scrapbook of memorabilia of you (est. 1982) still with me to this day - much to the chagrin of my hubby! Anyway, I have an old People magazine about 1982 or so with pictures of both your sons in it. I just got to wondering how your younger son is doing - I know he is autistic. I myself was diagnosed with MS a few years back but luckily it's taken just a pretty mild course so far. I'm very glad to hear that you have grown closer to God now - I think he has to use many of what we consider the most painful trials sometimes just to get our attention. How else would we come to rely upon him and trust him in all of our circumstances, right? Thanks for being my hero all these years and inspiring me when I need it most! Love you! Joy Springfield, MO
Thanks For The Shout out Sly! by Donnie_Drunko	Dec 24th, 2006 03:06:00 PM
Coolest Christmas Present Ever! If your ever in Ronaoke VA stop by the store. Its the Wal-Mart right by the airport. Just a side note I did not have time to post earlier this morning. I even tried to get some of my Co-Workers to run from the front of my store, up the parkinglot, across the street, into the theater, and up the stadium theater steps as they would all chant my name right before Rocky Balboa started. Sadly I had no takers.Alas that will remain a dream but a good one to have. Side Note Number 2: I did a book report on Rambo: First Blood Part 2 in the 4th Grade and lets just say the teacher was not too happy. Haha Very much looking forward to Poe and hope you can get that dream project off the ground. Thanks Again Sly and Merry Christmas!
Yay! Stallone be coming to the UK!!!!! by Dr_Zoidberg	Dec 24th, 2006 03:15:02 PM
He answered my talkback, I feel so special now. And on the box office, all films fell 50% because it's Christmas Eve, people be out shopping or with family and delivering presents (Santa be getting lazy these days). It's the holiday period, so Rocky should take a lot of money over the period. I must admit, with Stallone doing his thing on this web site I have become about 400% more excited for the film... but then that's a mixture of the phenomenal buzz from people who have seen it. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. January 19th. Can't come soon enough. Merry Christmas to everyone by the way, especially you Mr Stallone.
Respect! by Wed Vid Guy	Dec 24th, 2006 03:18:16 PM
Hey Sly, thanks for hanging out a few days after the official Q&A and answering all the TB's. Also thanks for answering the whole Rocky's death inside the ring thing for me. It's one of those ideas that looks great on paper but not so much in reality. For my part I've seen it twice so far and plan on seeing it again once or twice before the movie leaves theaters. Great to have you around here.
Wonders never cease! by BillEmic	Dec 24th, 2006 03:23:25 PM
Aw man, I want some Talkback love from Sly. This is out of control in the best possible way. I think Sly has officially broken the "fourth wall", removed that barrier between a mega-star and their fans, and AICN will never be the same. Sly, I just have to say: I saw "Rocky Balboa" on opening day and it's stayed me with for days and days. I thought your writing was excellent; there are so many great scenes and passages of dialogue. There are a few scenes I just keep replaying: Rocky's impassioned speech to get his boxing license back, that riveting exchange between Rocky and his son out on the street, Rocky's choked up admission that he still feels "a beast" inside him...so many wonderful scenes. I knew I was going to enjoy the movie and feel pumped up by the boxing match, but I had no idea how moved I was going to be by the melancholy and emotion of the story. It was often the little things that got me: the way Rocky turns to longingly wave good-bye to Adrian's grave...I could go on and on but I just have to say that "Rocky Balboa" is the perfect bookend to the Rocky franchise. I feel like you ripped your heart out and put it on the screen like a true artist, Sly, and I have to thank you for it. And thanks for responding to many of the Talkbackers like me who are going through the same kind of terse journey into manhood that Rocky did back in the first film.
Thanks Sly!!! by Nachokoolaid	Dec 24th, 2006 03:29:05 PM
Thanks for a great film. It felt good to get goosebumps at a theater again. That hasn't happened in a long time. This proves that you AND Burt Young should have gotten a lot more work (if you wanted it) through the years, and I hope it leads to more opportunities. The best part (goosebumps) aside from just hearing the score hit at the opening of the film was when you get clobbered by Dixon, and there's that shot of Mickey that's like "Dammit kid, c'mon!" I jumped in my seat and sort of did a little fist pump, and I looked over at my brother and my dad and they were feeling it too. I can't thank you enough. I guess... thanks for giving me a film that I could share with my dad and brother. It's all about family, and you showed that in the film, and you certainly have become part of the AICN family here. Forever grateful, Nachokoolaid
Everyone should learn from Rocky. by viranth	Dec 24th, 2006 03:32:07 PM
He says you don't have to give something, to get something. He comes across as such a good person, sure he has his inner battles, but he's happy sharing what he has. The series couldn't have ended in a better way, now everyone who saw the movie will remember Rocky as the good person, not necessarily the boxer.
Thanks Sly by optimus122	Dec 24th, 2006 03:34:06 PM
We are going again to watch the movie tonite at 9pm EST..got 3 other peep's to come with us too..I am paying so if they don't like it they can't bitch but I know they will love it. Its just a 200 percent turn around from the last movie..dunno what you were thinking anyway making a Rocky movie where Rocky was practically a background character to some punk ( im sure Tommy Morrison is a great guy , im talking about his character ).
Very Cool, thank you by streakerfreak1983	Dec 24th, 2006 03:47:06 PM
It’s nice to know that famous people actually read this stuff on here. It really shows what kind of a person he is. Thank you for the comment Sly. Yes, life comes first before anything else, but sometimes though we need an escape from our everyday pain. Film, music, and travel are my escapes. So on Christmas my fiancé and I will be heading to the theaters to see your film. You know the thing that has always stayed in my head about the Rocky films is this... every time I ever went for a day trip from CT to Philly I can always remember driving past or going to the art museum and there would always people at least one person running up those steps and doing the Rocky celebration on top. That always got a kick out of me. Not to many films leave that kind of impression on people where they act out something like that.
Once in a lifetime... by wirefufighter	Dec 24th, 2006 03:50:15 PM
Wow... Gotta hand it to Sly. Doing the Q&A was great, but to dive into the talkbacks is truly special. As for the movie: pure class. Loved how it seemed to mirror Stallone's effort to get the movie made a la Rocky 1(wonder if the boxing license committee were supposed to be Hollywood suits). I only wish we can have a final 10 questions now that everyone here has seen the movie (EG. Was that wreck really the ice rink? How about those alternate endings?), but I guess that'll have to wait for the Rambo Q&A. And as for the people not taking it seriously, the friends I took to see it weren't too pumped for it, but at the end they weren't laughing no more. If you're still reading these Sly, know that this back-and-forth is truly appreciated over here. Thanks!
This is a tough christmas for the both of us by streakerfreak1983	Dec 24th, 2006 03:52:03 PM
It is our first Christmas away from home and what’s left of our families, first Christmas since my parents divorce, and first Christmas since my fiancés mother's passing due to M.S. and cancer. It is a hard one week for us, but we are trying our best to bring some Christmas spirit into our lives right now. I think Rocky will help bring some ease. Thank you again Sly.
This is without a doubt by Atomic.Lobster	Dec 24th, 2006 03:52:48 PM
...the coolest thing I have ever seen on AICN. Would've been there anyway when Rocky reaches the UK, but now - damn, how excited am I about this? Thanks Sly!
Son's Movie Club at High School Saw Rocky Balboa by MrStinger	Dec 24th, 2006 04:04:06 PM
This past summer, after my son had a positive reaction to scenes from "The Godfather" on television, I decided the time had come to introduce him to serious films, and one of the first I showed him was the original "Rocky." We watched sequels together (II and III), and now, involved in his movie club at school, his tastes have grown and matured. Every semester the "Movie Critics Club" at my son's high school sees a movie the day after finals are over. This year, they forewent "Night At The Museum" and "Eragon" to choose "Rocky Balboa," and they all gave it enthusiastic thumbs up afterward. I went with him to the theater, so together we saw the last film in this series that began when I was only a few years older than he is now. Thanks, Sly, for the shared experience, and for breathing life once more into one of the greatest characters in the history of cinems.
Happy Xmas Sly by reni	Dec 24th, 2006 04:04:07 PM
Next time you're in Manchester, we'll have a beer mate. Happy Xmas folks!
Rocky is great but I have Rambo/future concerns by Paul1973	Dec 24th, 2006 04:11:17 PM
If you are still reading these Sly, I want to say I really liked Rocky Balboa. Great way to cap the series. I have a few concerns about your future projects though. 1) Rambo is a very unrelatable figure unlike Rocky. I have a hard time seeing how you will pull of reconnecting him with the audience. I hope you can do for an older Rambo what Clint pulled off with his retired killer in Unforgiven. 2) I understand why you want finish the stories of Rocky/Rambo but I hope to see you in some non-sequals and new franchises in the future. If you can, check out the book LEGEND by David Gemmell. It is the story of a retired Legendary Hero who is asked to help once more when his nation is facing destruction. When I read it years ago, I had thought an older you would be perfect for the role. 3) I hope you realize how strange this love fest is on Aintitcool. The sheer number of Haters who are often posting is staggering. If/when you come out with something that is not beloved like Rocky, I hope you take the wild comments posted here with a grain of salt.
Saw it last night by Audets70	Dec 24th, 2006 04:15:51 PM
WOW...just wow! Great film. Missed the lack of EYE OF THE TIGER, but oh well. I too found myself tearing up throughout the whole film. Mainly cause these are characters Ive been watching my WHOLE life. WHen I was born, my face was swelled up and the doctors dubbed me Rocky. Been a fan ever since I swear! The new leading lady was a great add and Rocky Balboa had one of the best scenes Ive seen all year. At the Boxing court, when Rocky pleads for his license....that speehc he gives=GOLD! Something to the effect that....Every day that goes on, I have to give up more and more. SO TRUE! PS...ending was perfect too! Wouldve loved to have been an extra in that place!
The most surreal thing I've ever seen by Wed Vid Guy	Dec 24th, 2006 04:15:52 PM
I have to say that this is just about the most surreal thing I've ever witnessed online in my life. It's one thing to answer readers questions (which was awesome in and of itself to do it for 20 days) but to respond to individual talkbackers are on a whole other level. The level of interaction is amazing.
Thanks again, Sly by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 04:47:46 PM
Somebody like you giving us the time of day is just frankly so overwhelmingly cool... I grew up on your movies and really have so much respect for you, I don't feel worthy of being read by my idol. But I'd be a real punk if I didn't say thanks for all the great times. No matter what movie it was, whatever reviews it got, whatever people were saying, I'd be a damn liar if I said I didn't enjoy your work. Like I told my sister after seeing RB, "It's good. It's damn good." Merry Christmas Sly and good luck with whatever you've got next. This lifetime fan's in your corner.
You're gonna hate me Sly - by Brody77	Dec 24th, 2006 04:50:32 PM
But I just watched Rocky Balboa through... questionable means here in the UK. I just couldn't wait. The good news? I'm going to see this on the biggest motherf*cking Cinema I can find, with a big bunch of my mates, and I'm gonna love every second - this is my film of the year 2006, beating Casino Royale, Snakes on A Plane, everything. Even better, thanks to the UK release date, it can be my potential film of 2007 as well!! Seriously, it was like spending an hour and a half with a mate I hadn't seen in ages. My one gripe would be no Apollo in flashbacks, but you explained that. PS - Geraldine Hughes was great as well!
Just fucking by Wyrdy the Gerbil	Dec 24th, 2006 04:56:48 PM
Brilliant....the man and the film nuff said
Thanks Sly, and Merry Christmas! by N.Lambert	Dec 24th, 2006 04:59:35 PM
Geez, what an unexpected and great start to Christmas Day here in Australia. I have this gigantic smile plastered across my face... I don't think it'll wear off anytime soon :) Merry Christmas everyone, stay safe.
You changed my life Sly! by rockyforever	Dec 24th, 2006 05:09:08 PM
Happy Holidays to all!! Thank you for creating such a great, mythic character. Did you get a feeling when you were writing Rocky that he was such a special character? Also, are you familiar with the teachings of Joseph Campbell? Because you really tapped into a very mythic archetype with many of your characters, but especially Rocky. And, are you pleased with the Box Office returns for Rocky Balboa? (Saw it twice already, plan on seeing it a couple a' more times before it leaves theatres. Don't pick it up, Don't put it down.
This is unreal... by darshn22	Dec 24th, 2006 05:09:57 PM
Quite seriously-- Sly, Thanks for just being "one of the guys" during the 20 days of questions and again when responding to these talkbacks. Honestly, I was quite skeptical when I first read about this whole process. Thinking it would be some lame mechanical process of answering questions that you'd choose to answer and not provide much insight or answer any tough questions. WOW I WAS WRONG! Not only did you answer one of my questions, you're responding to us talkbackers as if we were sitting around a game sharing a cold one. This is truly unbelievable.
SLY, you should play the Comedian... by MCVamp	Dec 24th, 2006 05:18:24 PM
If Watchmen must be made, surely Sly could play Eddie Blake true to form. Get your agent on WB's ass, Mr. Stallone! I forgive you for mot letting Clubber Lang do color commentary for HBO!
Stallone Video Challenge! by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 05:27:15 PM
Hello sly! At the opening of ROUND 1 of questions one of the writers stated that A.B. King was the SINGLE MOST IMPASSIONED STALLONE FAN ANYWHERE. I beg to differ and I'm sure hundreds if not thousands of fans around the globe are saying the same thing. Now, I don't know who this AB King is but I do want to say this. The number 1 Stallone fan is me. : - ) Really! I'll challenge this A.B. King or anyone else who cares to jump in on this contest to a Stallone monologue act off. Here's the deal. Anyone interested can do one or two monologues on video, from any Stallone film. aintitcool can host the top 10 videos then people can log in and vote for the favorite pieces. The the winner gets a walk on role in Rambo IV or maybe meet and lift weights for an hour. What do you think?
Few have managed to endure like you and your characters by aboriginal	Dec 24th, 2006 05:31:54 PM
We all seek to achieve something that'll follow after us in some way or form and actors are one of the few types that have that sort of opportunity. Not having a chance to meet someone like you, but reading the posts here, you're one of those who loves the job for the art and a truly genuine personality. Don't expect everyone here to get it, but a cool, nostalgic moment it has been. Thanks.
Thanks Sly! by JeremyM1	Dec 24th, 2006 05:32:39 PM
This has been awesome stuff. I'm still stunned by how good Rocky Balboa was; as a big fan of the series I knew I would like it, but not as much as I have. Can't wait to see it again, as well as a hopefully loaded DVD. Can't wait to see deleted scenes, documentaries, commentaries, etc., as well as the same for parts 2 through, yes, 5. As a child of the 80s, this was the movie experience I was HOPING to get from the Star Wars prequels, and only received in fleetingly small moments--this was the total package. Thanks again!
there's always gotta be a jackass by bigbadbua	Dec 24th, 2006 05:38:57 PM
In other talkbacks about Stallone and RB its been AK-47. Now its bacci40. This was a fantastic film about an aging icon who has one great shot left in him. There's no need to crap on Stallone for this. George Foreman was in his late 40's when he won the World Title, and he's was in no where as good a shape as Stallone is in this film, so the plot is very plausable. And I think that in a way this film was a tribute to Foreman and many other aging icons who have one great run left in them, the way that Chuck Wepner (not sure on spelling) was a major influence on Stallone for the original. Wepner had his ass kicked by Ali in the early 70's but wouldn't quit. So just as that inspired Stallone to do the original, I think the older heroes that succeed inspired this film. So people who are spewing hate just to be stupid fuckers should just shut up and respect this film for its greatness, as it truly is a fantastic film and a great parallel to life.
Damn you Michael Bay by MCMLXXVI	Dec 24th, 2006 05:39:56 PM
Damn you Michael Bay
Opening scene of new Rambo... by Alonzo Mosely	Dec 24th, 2006 05:41:01 PM
Rambo is in a hut in the jungle, we see his hulking back, before we realize he is hunched over a laptop hooked up to a cell phone. He is on a film geek website... Someone is badmouthing his favorite movies of all time, the Rocky films... Suddenly he snaps, and sets about returning to the US to kill AK-47... Now that is movie magic, ladies and gentlemen...
Mr. Stallone by ELGordo	Dec 24th, 2006 05:56:49 PM
You have climbed my respect ladder a hundred fold with these Q&A's. You are indeed the man. You have to come to Iceland and have a good time. Ask Tarantino and Eli Roth, they love this place.
why is this not about aging? by bigbadbua	Dec 24th, 2006 06:01:22 PM
Just because he doesn't give up on his dreams doesn't mean that its not about aging. Rocky knows he has one shot left in him and he takes it. Its a much more positive message that you give it credit for. People that turn 40/50/60 or whatever age you choose don't have to give up on their lives and do stereotypical "old folks" stuff. People these days are accomplishing great thing well into late life, and Stallone celebrated this trend by showing Rocky as a man who still has one great fight to accomplish. But while this is going on, Rocky is aging, and realizes that this is it for him, so it is a film that says that its ok to age, but at the same time you can still accomplish great things while you age. Right now I'm 26, and I hope I have Rocky's drive to live life when I'm that age. And for your sake bacci40, I hope you do too.
Sly by antonphd	Dec 24th, 2006 06:04:29 PM
That meant a lot to both my wife, Melissa, and I. She wants me to keep keep both what I wrote and what you wrote back. Thanks for the awesome Christmas present. I hope that you and your family have a great Christmas too! And a happy new year!
RE: bacci40 attitude! by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 06:09:27 PM
Actually... the point is, is you don't know what the point is do you? And after saying what you said you're actully going to go and pull out your original Rocky vid and watch it? As said in Rocky 3. Yur just a jealous, lazy, bumb! P.S. There's still time for Sallone to do the Eastwood thing. And he will. It's evident if you look closely at the acting and filmmaking in Rocky Balboa.
Damn you Stallone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!! by King Conan	Dec 24th, 2006 06:10:19 PM
You have finally done it. I took my wife and 12 year old daugther to see Rocky Balboa last night at the 34th Street AMC in New York City after a long and drawn out battle of shopping in Macy's. Now I have seen everything from Ghost to King Kong(2006) Bambi, Lion King and Disney's Tarzan with my wife and daughter and have ALWAYS MANAGED NOT TO CRY IN FRONT OF THEM!!! It was an art I perfected actually, I bite my lip, or scratch my arm really hard to avoid tearing up...but last night at the first 5 minutes of Rocky Balboa my record was broken when my wife and daughter noticed, big tuff daddy with tears running down his cheeks!! Thanks alot bro!! 12 years and my record was crushed thanks to you! I see Bambi's famiy burn, Andy Dufrane escape Shawshank....Patrick Swayze say goodbye to Demi Moore...Mustafa get killed by Scar..in front of my family and I never spill a drop....I see you at the grave of Adrian, and tears flow like the broken levy in New Orleans! Fuck man I trusted you! Shit! I watched my dad's face in 83' when I was 10 and we saw Rocky III. He was like a stone when Micky died! I was ballin'. Last night I could hear my daughter whispering to my wife "Daddy's crying! I can see it...Daddy's crying!". Dammit! Why did you have to make such a good movie?? I will be seeing it for a second time, but I will make sure I go alone so if I start to drip, no one will see it. P.S. THANK YOU FOR NOT KISSING LITTLE MARIE BUT INSTEAD LETTING HER KISS YOU! I was worried through the whole film that you might do that and shit on Adrians memory in a way. Your acting in the film was excellent and I kept reminding myself through the film, "hey this guy also wrote this" excellent writing bro! People in the theater were clapping and cheering, in jaded, cynical New York City this is a big accomplishment. Also when it was over.. there was this little spanish kid, about 4 years old with his dad in the bathroom and he kept chanting "rocky...rocky" over and over. You should be very proud that an idea you had so long ago will most likely live forever like the music of the Rolling Stones or the film Citizen Kane long after you are gone. I guess you made the most of your life right? Just like Rocky. All the best!
Give a standing ovation for Stallone, please by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 06:11:13 PM
The film was a heartfelt goodbye to the legend he spawned. I doubt he'd really care about making money since he's a millionare (or billionare?) and can probably afford all our morgages combined. Judge the film on its own merits.
P.S. by King Conan	Dec 24th, 2006 06:11:17 PM
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
The level of Stallone interaction is amazing by bigbadbua	Dec 24th, 2006 06:13:14 PM
I wish I'd been more personally involved in these talkbacks before now. Having a message directed at me would have been an amazing thrill, and I'm jealous of the people who got them. Sly has shown a great level of class, humor, and intelligence throughout this series of talkbacks, and it would be great if Harry could get other Actors/filmmakers to participate on this level in the future.
I don't think Baccio40 has seen it.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 24th, 2006 06:18:06 PM
i'm coming into this discussion late so I don't know what his first comments are, but he sounds like any skeptical person out there who hasn't seen it. Get them in the theater, and they will change their mind. If he HAS seen it, well, he's just a troll.
My Tribute to Sly and Rock !!! by gufte82	Dec 24th, 2006 06:37:29 PM
WoW...Sly...Thanks for the answer !!! GOOSEBUMPS !!! Gotta frame that answer !!! I am noone that wants to lift idols to GOD-Status but that was really special to me !!! If you got the time -which I doubt (GO RAMBO :) ) - check my Rocky-trailer, I think it can get some goosebumps outta you, too... :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =XftehVQkqtg Everyone go support this movie !!!
These talkbacks have been Stallowned!!!! by Doc_Strange	Dec 24th, 2006 06:42:03 PM
Didn't get a response but I would like to reiterate that Rocky, to me, is the definition of what a man is and what a man should be. I had a blast with these movies, especially as a kid seeing Rocky 3 and giving my cousin a bloody nose after he suggested we box. And the pumped up feeling I had after seeing Rocky 4. Again, thanks for all the great memories Sly!!!
It's Been Interesting by Dersu	Dec 24th, 2006 06:57:48 PM
It was really nice of Sylvester to take the time to do this. I haven't seen "Rocky Balboa" yet, but I hear it's pretty good. I was hoping it would be a direct sequel to the first "Rocky" and as far removed from the other sequels as possible, and it sounds like that's more-or-less the case. I can't think of any other celebrity right now who has taken the time to actually answer two hundred questions and then take the time to respond directly to a website's forum posters. I wonder if this will start a new trend? Anyway, thanks, Sly, if you're reading this. I don't post here often, but I did read the questions and answers and they were very interesting. Well, anyway, it's not like I'm saying anything that hasn't already been said, but I thought I should at least show some positivity when someone decides to be patient and nice enough to do this. Thanks again to Sylvester and to Harry for setting this up.
The word is 'awesome' by CherryValance	Dec 24th, 2006 07:02:35 PM
You really didn't have to do that. Acknowledging everyone individually is above and beyond what any of us ever expected from these talkbacks I'm sure. I think you've figured out how much you've meant to us over the years if we haven't expressed that enough. So for you to do that is just awesome. I don't know what's up with those box office numbers but don't worry about it. We know what it means to the people that it really means something to, but what you've done here has won you a lot more than 1st place at the weekend box office. So it'll all work itself out. You'll see. ;)
Cliffhanger by optimus122	Dec 24th, 2006 07:03:46 PM
Just watched this movie before we go see Rocky again...great movie , real great action. It was also a great game. I remember the snow boarding levels..real sweet.
Advice for Sly by optimus122	Dec 24th, 2006 07:07:00 PM
Do a great job on the final Rambo sequel but make sure of 2 things... the first is have a hot babe involved somehow..the other is to keep the budget as low as possible to ensure it being a money maker..thats what film companys loved about Clint. He always brings a project in on time and under budget. I can't wait for RAMBO!!
feeling priveledged to be amongst fellow fans by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 07:08:08 PM
Hi fellow talkbackers. Nothing has been better than to be amongst you all raving about BALBOA and SLY. A previous talkbacker stated that SLY had broken 'The 4th Wall' (between star and fans) officially breaking the "fourth wall", removing that barrier between a mega-star and their fans, and AICN will never be the same. I have to agree that this changes the rules. This defo feels like i'm chilling with SLY over a beer with fellow fans. AWESOME! Can't wait till the next Q&A with SLY when either POE or RAMBO is released.
He is not human. He's like a piece of Iron. by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 07:14:25 PM
No wonder Dixon broke his hand. I have to say they don't make movies like this anymore. The closest star I can think of who came close to creating an iconic character like Rocky is Vin Diesel who's so perfect in his role as Riddick, no other man could play it.
You outdo yourself, sir by Zorak5	Dec 24th, 2006 07:19:11 PM
You keep coming back for more, huh? But then, you managed to turn this place into a positive environment, so I can see why you'd want to come back. Thanks a bunch again for such a great movie. And please, Harry, give him black box priviledges!
ColorBlind Pilot? by Zorak5	Dec 24th, 2006 07:20:09 PM
"ColorBlind Pilot – I agree with you on the credits, should’ve reversed them." What is this referring to?
WOW by beefywhore	Dec 24th, 2006 07:24:36 PM
What a class act. Merry Christmas.
I second that notion by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 07:29:31 PM
It's about respect. He doesn't owe us or have to prove anything to us, like Rocky. The man's earned our respect as an actor and human being. The least we could do as the infamous talkbackers is return some respect of our own... I've been coming to this site for what has it been... probably 5 or 6 years and talkback is honestly a disgrace to the place at times though othertimes it's funny. So when a celeb this huge stops by, we'd better play nice or just shut up.
i third that notion by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 07:38:00 PM
Absolutley Pipple. I have been coming to this site for years and the various talkback has mostly always been negative (although funny) which has prohibited me from engaging. But when we get someone like SLY who not only stopped over for a prolonged stay but also sustained his presence we goot respect that.
the best around by Atomik Steve	Dec 24th, 2006 07:39:55 PM
damn. he even answers questions on christmas. thanks for taking the time for all of our geek ramblings Sly!
*******EXCELLENT REVIEW************* by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 07:53:06 PM
Thanks for the spoiler filled review with no warnings. And thanks for misinterpreting the film, quite obviously you were looking for a 'bang bang no plotline type' of movie which this isn't. Thankfully i shall now avoid those pitfalls thanks to your (low)thought process.
someone's going to get coal by CherryValance	Dec 24th, 2006 07:55:24 PM
up his ass this Christmas. I hope it's hot, gaylittleslipper. :D
Thank You for getting ths film made by HunterMax04	Dec 24th, 2006 07:56:26 PM
Mr. Stallone, I've never posted here before. I appolgize for it being so long. I figure it is my only chance to say thanks to you and have your read it. I've read all of the Q&A and I am even more of a fan than I was before and I've been a Rocky fan since I was 8 years old and went to the original with my older brother. I grew up on the sequels through high school and up until V found something that I loved about each of them. I just pretend V didn't happen. I always just pretended the character faded away after IV. So when I heard about the sixth Rocky coming out I was one of those people who felt you might have lost your mind and was worried Rocky's legacy would get even further tarnished. When I saw the first trailer I was surprised how much my interest grew. Reading this Q&A and your honest reflection on your life and career made me take an almost personal stake in this film. For the firsst time in my life I am checking daily box office results. I saw it opening night and thought it was the perfect end to Rocky's journey. You brought back the loveable tough guy we all got to know 30 years ago and once again the most affable character in film history proved that when the bell rings there is no one tougher. Rocky's speech to his son outside of Aidrian's was the best in all of the films since Rocky's "I can't win" from the original. Anyone who has watched someone who they know is capable of so much more not try their best could relate and all of us have had challenges in life and have had to find the will to push through. Thank you for fightinig to have this movie made and giving Rocky to good-bye he deserved. By the way, 3 of my best friends said they wouldn't see the movie. I debated why they should see it for an hour and finally told them I'd pay for their tickets and bet them $50 each that they would come out liking it. I'm not expecting to have to pay. Also, for a guy pushing 40 who does his best to keep training you are an inspiration. Merry Christmas!
It's Sunday Night... by Amoy	Dec 24th, 2006 07:57:53 PM
And on Boxofficemojo, Rocky's already up to $23mil, practically breaking even its budget. So after tonight its nothin but $$$. To quote the title of a much inferior film, for all you naysayers "You Got Served!" suckahz
!!!!!!gallittleslipper is a Scwarzenegger fan!!!!!!!!!! by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 08:09:26 PM
nuff said!
######Three cheers for SLY############ by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 08:10:55 PM
HIP HIP.........
RE: Gaylittleslippers by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 08:15:50 PM
Okay FUFFY, please take it easy. The movie was very well made. And regardless of what people think of the film let us all remember that making this film was no easy task. You nay sayers have no idea on what it takes to make a film much less be in shape for it. So, I don't know for sure but It's probably advised not to look him in the eyes because he doesn't want all of his employees to bug him or ask him for things. P.S. Please see some kind of Stallone film as it may help with new ideas on your user name.
Just got back from the Theatre by midgard serpent	Dec 24th, 2006 08:23:28 PM
and Stallone has hit this movie out of the park. Both my fiancee and myself loved the film, in fact much more so that I would have believed going in. Seeing Stallone on these talkbacks, answering questions, interacting with the fans here on this site has only increased my admiration for him. I hope the sucess of Rocky Balboa lights a fire back in his career and I look forward to seeing what he is planning on for his next project. This was a fitting and touching ending to the Rocky saga and despite the naysayers, and doubting film critics this movie does deliver on all levels. The relationship between Rocky and his son was handled beautifully and the loss of Adrian was felt throughout the picture. The fact that Stallone is obviously a true boxing fan was highlighted by the end of the fight , as the decision was a pure Las Vegas rigged result to allow the champ to keep his belt, and also an excuse for a rematch! Seeing Michael Buffer, Larry Merchant and Jim Lampley only heightened the realism for the final showdown and it was for me a more realistic fight than the previous Rocky movies have had. Again congratulations Mr Stallone on the sucess of this film, and here's hoping at Oscar time that perhaps the old lion will roar again!
wow by canopus	Dec 24th, 2006 08:23:54 PM
Sly is the man, I saw this movie on Friday, but I will be seeing it again Christmas afternoon. I am curious about one thing though, I loved Geraldine Hughes as Marie, but why didn't the original actress return to play her? You used the same actor for Spider, I'm not complaining, because I thought Geraldine was fantastic, I was just curious. Oh, and Sly, get your agent to lock down a Tarantino movie for you, I would love to hear you reciting his dialogue.
Can't agree more by Amoy	Dec 24th, 2006 08:25:12 PM
Seeing how well RB was handled, now I can't wait for Rambo!
A good way to get attention... by Bobo_Vision	Dec 24th, 2006 08:27:53 PM
...is to go against the grain. If everyone slants left, you slant right and you get noticed. If you authentically believe what you're saying, thats one thing, but if you haven't even seen the movie and are saying this, then clearly its nothing more than a plea for attention and possibly to be mentioned by Sly himself. The internet is plagued by miscreants and social deviants who have little to no social interaction, and messageboards and chatrooms give them these negative people tiny little bit of significance in their otherwise meaningless life, and by being an overt asshole, even on Christmas Eve, it makes their loneliness a little less noticeable to them, because they get noticed.
No, you don't have to like everything on Christmas Eve by Bobo_Vision	Dec 24th, 2006 08:37:16 PM
I'm just saying, I understand the holidays are a difficult time for some people, moreso than on other occasions. So we understand. Enjoy that ice cream gay little fella.
chill out by omega786	Dec 24th, 2006 08:38:25 PM
it's Christmas Day in the UK
Stallone - Where's Drago and Mr. T? by Alice Cooper Stalker	Dec 24th, 2006 08:40:05 PM
Maybe I read this wrong, but I thought I read an answer from Stallone where he said Carl Weathers want't in the movie, but there were cameos from Mr. T. and Dolph. I saw Rocky on Friday (GREAT MOVIE!) and I didn't see these cameos. I caught Mike Tyson. Did I read this wrong or remember it wrong? Also, Thank you for putting out a quality ending movie. I can tell that lots of thought and sweat and blood went into this movie. It shows. Not something that was thrown out there just to make money.
Is it just me.. by siriusem	Dec 24th, 2006 08:44:40 PM
I just love it when movies prove something not only on the big screen but on a different level here in the 'real' world as well. Almost nobody believed Rocky can put up another fight in his 60s.. mirrored by as what i've read so far Sly having lots of trouble getting the support to have this movie made (for the same reason as nobody believed someone in his 60s could put up a good performance). I just love it when people prove everybody wrong by firmly following their dreams, even when told every day they are crazy. My only wish would be that more people followed their own dreams instead of following whatever society has made them believe is right or even possible. Best of compliments to Sly for having this movie made and beating all the odds, especially for inspiring so many people to 'go the distance', he is man with great heart and it really shows on and off the screen. That I'll be in the cinema for it when it arrives in the CZ goes without saying..
Re: Drago and Mr.T by Bobo_Vision	Dec 24th, 2006 08:46:00 PM
There was a very short montage before the fight at the end, where Rocky was shown fighting past opponents including unnamed ones. Drago and Mr.T are shown for what seemed like fractions of a second, but notably there was no Apollo Creed.
Sly goes HIGH DEF for the final match! by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 08:48:37 PM
I'm not positive but it looked to me like the end of the film was shot in HIGH DEF. Great stuff!!! Did you spot the cameras ring side? I believe those were real cameras rolling, just like the film cameras ring side in ALL the other Rocky's. Sly, was going digital Robert Rodriquez's idea or did you want to go with the feel of "The Contender"? P.S The Contender was brilliant!
Thanks Sly you're the best by Gandalf the redwhiteandblue	Dec 24th, 2006 08:53:28 PM
Sly thanks for a great film and a great time here at AICN. I checked all day at work, in class and at home waiting for the new round to go up. I saw Rocky Balboa opening day with my mom and two best friends. I saw it again on Thursday with my girl. Both Mom and girl cried (I got a little misty once or twice). This was my first Rocky in the movies and it rocked with the NY audience shouting and cheering at the right times. Can't wait for Rambo.
Hey Sly, a Rambo/career point for you to consider... by genro	Dec 24th, 2006 08:53:49 PM
As someone who's been a fan long enough to be at the core of your career, I'm glad to see you return to your roots like you did with Copland. But, to say I have doubts about your current Rambo idea is putting it mildly. I really think you're stretching this current "far eastern" scenario because it will be easier to obtain financing then doing the obvious, perfect story - Rambo in Afghanistan, post-9/11. From John Walker Lindh to the American miltary bounty hunter arrested, tried and convicted in Afghani court, the Rambo allegories are perfect-pitch, but as a lot of us know, Islamo-Fascism is a no-no for studios. A Rambo set in the current mid-east could be the equivalent to Sam Peckinpah's Apocalypse Now. So, I hope you make the right creative decision and not the easier financial one, which is usually the mistake you make every time you resurrect your career. So, it's time to work with John Millius and Walter Hill and make a Rambo film about what the terror war would mean. And if you can do a Nighthawks sequel call David Fincher. Seriously Sly - don't fuck things up again just for the greenlight. Copland, yes. Daylight, no.
Rambo - technical question by Hudson242	Dec 24th, 2006 09:09:01 PM
Thank you so much Sly for a perfect cinematic experience! I hope you see my talkback. I just have a really quick question... What aspect ratio will Rambo be shot? Please say glorious 2.35:1 or 2.4:1 (I'm a cinematography nut). I loved Rocky Balboa to death. I've already seen it twice and will see it again soon with another group of friends. I'm trying to get as many people to see it as possible. Thank you for coming back to us. ~Jeremiah L Scott P.S. I totally think you should do Death Wish, make it fucking gritty and hardcore! If you don't do it someone else will anyway and completely fuck it up.
streakerfreak1983 by CoffeeAndCinema	Dec 24th, 2006 09:13:11 PM
I totally know how you're feeling. Last Christmas was the first 1,000 miles away from home after my parents divorce and my grandparents death. (Though instead of cancer it was suicide - they decided they would rather go together than watch each other deteriorate.) It was a hard year, but my husband and I got through it and were stronger for it. Being a movie geek I know the affect that a really good film has on my mood and outlook, and I hope Rocky Balboa can bring your spirits up. Have a Merry Christmas.
I have to say by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 09:18:28 PM
You dick, gayslipper, or whatever who's acting like a big shot in here while we're trying to be decent to our man, Sly, just get out. Don't accuse him of not being himself because he is. No one else could talk so passionately about their art. NO ONE.
Historical Fact About the Age Issue by NoHubris	Dec 24th, 2006 09:26:47 PM
I posted this before, but in light of the earlier comment, I'll do it again. In the Mongol Empire (largest land empire in history), a soldier's fighting age was up to the age of 60. In other words, the Rocky Balboa story is very plausible.
Oh Yeah and by Gandalf the redwhiteandblue	Dec 24th, 2006 09:30:04 PM
To Sly and all readers Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Festivus, Happy Boxing day(4 u Canadians and uh Rocky I guess)and for the Atheist and Agnostic crowd enjoy the day off. PS I'm watching the best holiday movie ever A Christmas Story. You should too.
Out With Gout by monolithik	Dec 24th, 2006 09:39:16 PM
I've been out of commission with a bad case of gout in my foot for a few weeks now, so I haven't been out much... but I have had plenty of time to sit here and read the Q&A sessions, and gain a world of respect for Mr. Stallone. When the last Rocky movie came out I was about ten, so I missed out on it the first time around, but I promise you this -- the first chance I get to hobble out to the theaters, hahah, it'll be to see ROCKY BALBOA... and then to rent the others. Except for maybe 5. Heh heh. Thanks for this Harry, and Sly, for geeking out with us! -- mk
The best film of 2006, easily. by WatchtheWatcher	Dec 24th, 2006 09:39:30 PM
Sly, I know this is really personal and all, but I'm gonna blurt it out all over the internet anyway. When I was younger, I had this wonderful, beautiful girlfriend. I had proposed to her and she said yes. Soon afterwards, she was killed by a drunk driver. I miss her every day... er, every other day at least. I've looked up to Rocky all my life. When I went to see "Rocky Balboa" opening night, about five minutes in, I just started crying and continued doing so on and off throughout the entirety of the film. Sometimes, it just felt like you'd stabbed me with a sword and twisted it around for a while. I'd grown up with Rocky and Adrian, and just like my own "Adrian", she was gone forever. I took a lot away from "Rocky Balboa". I learned a lot from you about being a man and about life. Thank you for those valuable life lessons. I'll be going back for the fourth time tomorrow night. Listen, even if by some stroke of evil, "Rocky Balboa" doesn't do so well, always be proud of it no matter what. It's one of your best performances. It's one of your best scripts. And it's certainly your best direction. "Rocky Balboa" is a masterpiece. Period. And you talkbackers, how awesome was Conti's new renditions of "Gonna Fly Now", "Conquest", and "The Final Bell"? Didn't they rock your damned socks? From the bottom of my heart, Sly, thank you for this wonderful Christmas present. And Merry Christmas to you, Stallion!
Im Pissed by georges garvaren	Dec 24th, 2006 09:41:20 PM
that there was only ONE Tango & Cash question. I met Sly once. He made fun of Native art work. Anyway, Happy Birthday, Christ!
Rocky's Restaurant by deacon27	Dec 24th, 2006 09:42:49 PM
One quick question I had about the new Rocky movie is why he opened a restaurant. I like the change of pace -- sort of fits in with other fighters who've gone on to do other things -- but wouldn't it have been more likely for Rocky to have either opened a gym or become a trainer? In "Rocky II" he tells Adrian that he doesn't know how to do anything else; that fighting is the world he understands best and makes him feel like a man. In another scene, he tells Mickey that he needs to "be around it" and is willing to dump the spit buckets just to be there. Why would he suddenly abandon boxing to become a small business owner? Wouldn't he have been more likely to have taken Mickey's place and trained other fighters? I can just imagine Rocky in another 20 years, yelling at a young hopeful fighter and telling him to "Get to woyk!" Anyway, this is more of an observation than a criticism. I loved the film and enjoyed the trip down Memory Lane it took us on by revisiting scenes from the first movie. I also enjoyed the new filmmaking style. I'm hoping "Rocky Balboa" can revitalize Stallone's career the way "Pulp Fiction" helped John Travolta. I've missed seeing Stallone on the big screen doing work that's both entertaining and poignant. Congrats to him!
I've been thinking by Moe Ron	Dec 24th, 2006 09:55:21 PM
Hey, Sly, instead of Death Wish, if you got a jones to remake some good Bronson, do The Mechanic. Right up your alley. Merry Christmas.
Trivia at IMDB by siriusem	Dec 24th, 2006 10:04:31 PM
Someone should go though the whole 200 Questions and post all the trivia concerning Rocky Balboa on the IMDB entry. I am sure a lot more people would appreciate a lot of the info on how this movie got to be made and help understand what it is all about.
Happy Holidays everyone by LeviDTinker	Dec 24th, 2006 10:06:31 PM
Congrats SLy on A solid opening weekend. Rocky Balboa is a great movie that will have some great legs on it in the comming weeks, as the word of mouth spreads on how great of a movie it is. YOu can really see the heart and soul you poured into makeing it. i found myself standing in the back of the the chinese 6 watching various scenes durring my breaks at work today. Ill be seeing it again latter this week when i fly back to florida to spend the new year with my family. Merry christmas everyone.
WTF by thatpeterguy	Dec 24th, 2006 10:11:51 PM
Is this guy the greatest celebrity this world has every seen. I mean just a month ago, the image of Stallone would have conjured up cheesy eighties hair, a cocky attitude and slippery slope of bad actions movies in the '90's. Now the guy seems like a stand up guy, with a big heart, who also happens to be a movie icon. To write back that many talk backers, ON CHRISTMAS EVE no less. I'm shocked. That goes above and beyond what anyone would expect from him. Stallone has charmed the pants off of all of us and revolutionized celebrity/fan interaction in the process.
A TC Q&A? by CherryValance	Dec 24th, 2006 10:24:30 PM
I dunno. I don't think he'd be that forthcoming. The only person I think could possibility come close to being this cool with us would be Samuel L. Jackson. All the other suggestions seem a little iffy to me. Actually the only other time I've read something that was as honest as this Q&A was Sean Astin's book. And everyone I spoke to who read it seemed to think he was a jerk because of it. It's weird how that works out.
James Brolin by Zath_ras	Dec 24th, 2006 10:27:01 PM
IMDB shows him attached to Rambo 4 as "Colonel William Keating". Heard him on the radio Friday saying he has had no talks about it but he is very open to the idea. Can I get a commission?
Oh I actually have a question about the movie by CherryValance	Dec 24th, 2006 10:33:00 PM
I think I recognized Frank at the table in the restaurant when Rocky was telling stories and I was wondering if I should have recognized the other people at that table.
Sly you rock! by snomusic	Dec 24th, 2006 10:35:24 PM
That was so very cool - with no family the holidays is pretty depressing time of year for me (see why I want a wife? lol), so I actually got a Christmas gift this year - from Sylvester Stallone! Too cool... copied and pasted already of course. abomination - still waiting to hear what kind of music ya followed as a journalist...
paulie by indomitable_bob	Dec 24th, 2006 10:37:05 PM
i can't think of a single character more consistently written or performed. the man who avoids being knocked down by never entering the fight in the first place. he hates himself for his in-action and what it's brought out of him, but still wallows in his own jealousy and self pity to justify his feelings of entitlement which he wraps around himself like a blanket. yet through it all, he's always there to provide all the support he can. he just feels so three-dimensional. i hate to say it, but i've met many more paulies in this world than i have rockys....shit, i'm related to several paulies. brav-o burt...you too sly.
Rocky Balboa was a good flick!! by dedstarzinc	Dec 24th, 2006 10:38:15 PM
I caught the 10:15 pm showing on opening night and I thought the movie was great. For the first time in a while (and I go to a lot of films), I was actually pumping my fists and getting excited during the fight scene. Thanks Sly for making a great film and talking with the fans.
Sly if you're still reading by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 10:43:39 PM
No bs, here's how it is. I'm going to go have one more round with Rocky at the theater as a thanks to you for giving us these cool characters, spending time with us here to say thanks to us personally one by one like that, not all of us, but we get the message. That was just out of no where... Forgive my little joygasm but I have to let it out here for some reason like it's destiny... HE'S BACK. I CAN'T FUCKING BELIEVE ROCKY IS BACK. SSSSSSSssssssssssswwwwwwweeeee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!!!
Rocky V was a good film. by darthbinks1220	Dec 24th, 2006 10:48:11 PM
The subjects of betrayal and ingratitude is universal. V explored these themes beautifully. Is the '90 film the weakest entry in the franchise? Perhaps. A bad film? Not by a long shot.
Paulie bedside at the beginning of Rocky II. by darthbinks1220	Dec 24th, 2006 10:52:47 PM
Mr. Stallone said, "I get it" about Rocky! As Paulie tells the Stallion, "I feel good tonight." Sylvester, I have no words.........
Cruise couldn't do it by snomusic	Dec 24th, 2006 10:55:48 PM
His acting is autopilot, and honestly I don't think he'd be able to handle even the most polite questions about Xenu, etc. After seeing his irked reaction to questions about it at the War of the Worlds Q&A with Spielberg, and the way he switched faces in an Australian interview and got in the interviewer’s face, I think he'd get too riled too easily. I know he gets a celebrity brand of Scientology that we don't know about, but as smart as he is with his movie choices, etc, I don't find him all the bright in the faith department when looking at it's root in a fair and balanced manner. C'est la vie, I'm sure there are (many) others that are anti-Jesus that would say the same about me. But even if rules were stipulated (something that wasn't necessary with our hero Sly) that we couldn't ask about robbing the cradle, being gay or following a manufactured religion created a by a Sci-Fi writer nutjob who was actually quoted as creating a religion to make big bucks, Cruise isn't really that interesting of a person to talk about movies with. He strikes me as someone who uses movies to self promote and make money. Kinda like an actor version of KISS - he entertains but really isn't to be taken too seriously.
Sly treats Iron Mike like Spider Rico in Rocky VI. by darthbinks1220	Dec 24th, 2006 10:57:45 PM
I was moved by the director including Mr. Tyson in this Oscar-hopeful film. Honestly, the much-maligned fighter carried the heavyweight division for a decade. He defined "ppv attraction". Unfortunately, he lost his Micky Goldmill (Cus D'Amato), and the "vampires"/"parasites" turned his Joe Frasier ability into Bert Sugar's 100th ranked all-time boxer. The man should've been in the top twenty. You're all heart, Sly!
Harry,please do Q&A with Rodriguez & QT for Grindhouse by Wayne6000	Dec 24th, 2006 10:58:10 PM
Harry, if you can get additional assistance from some other AICN contributors (Merrick, Quint, and a couple others, to go through the submitted questions), can you please do in 2007, a reader Q&A (100 questions each) with Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino (if QT has an assistant to assist, since he's an atrocious speller, who doesn't use E Mail, doesn't own a computer and doesn't know how to type), when they have their Grindhouse film coming out in April. The cool thing about it, is readers could ask them questions relating to numerous other films (not just ones they've both made), film genres and other filmmakers.
By far the most under rated Stallone film is... by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 11:02:46 PM
Paradise Alley. Have a close look at this film. Stallone was brilliant as writer, director, actor. "Nature's a funny, funny thing".
And Sly bless us, everyone... by S-Mart shopper	Dec 24th, 2006 11:04:00 PM
Happy Christmas, Fuckers!! (Bruce Almight was on)sorry..
Swear to God last question Sly by S-Mart shopper	Dec 24th, 2006 11:06:50 PM
How would you feel about doing a Snakes on a Plane sequel with Sam Jackson????
About rocky V by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 11:09:30 PM
Compared to a lot of what's being passed off as film today, I'd say it's gold.
I NEED To Know Something! by Renholder	Dec 24th, 2006 11:14:08 PM
Are there some deleted scenes with Steps?? I mean he practically disappears for the last half of the movie after you go through some effort to build him up...
I just wanna say one more thing to Sylvester.... by darthbinks1220	Dec 24th, 2006 11:18:00 PM
This Christmas, you feel like Frank Leone getting his mail. Good for you! My birthday IS 12/20/68. When 16 & 26, I went on two respective 18-month workout binges. At a bodyweight of 205 (w/ 34" waist), my ecto/mesomorphic frame could muster merely 240 lbs benching. I LOOK like you facially.-- not as much as say, Frank Stallone Jr., or Sr. for that matter, but more than Sage. At my physical peak, I sent in pictures for modeling. If you ever want to see them, you'd get a laugh. :) Sly, your movies have always been that angel on my shoulder saying, "Get up you son of a bitch, 'cause Mickey loves ya!" I know this was more than one thing. Just thanks for helping me feel better throughout my life. You've always made a difference. Your fan always.
RE: I need to know something. by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 11:26:52 PM
Hello Renholder. I hope Stallone can answer your question personally but I thought I'd throw this out to you. Having Steps disappear was probably a producing decision. The relationship with Marie was far more important than the relationship with Steps and Stallone had alot of ground to cover in this short time frame. If any other footage should have stayed in the film I'm sure it would have been Paulie or Rock Jr. scenes. Happy Holidays!
What a class act, I just can't get over it. by IndustryKiller!	Dec 24th, 2006 11:27:22 PM
talk about taking it to the people. Seeing an actor bypass the studio promo system and just be humble and real about something he feels passionately about makes my cynical heart melt. Congrats to your success, I'm assuming since Rocky is going to clean up a big profit that it will buy you some well deserved clout in Hollywood. From here on out just do passion projects, you gotta have enough money and you are on a high so keep it going. Do some more Copland (an Oscar worthy film and performance by the way) type pics. Merry Christmas Sly and welcome back into the fold....or maybe it's you who should be welcoming the public back.
monster2Bpitied by snomusic	Dec 24th, 2006 11:33:29 PM
ROFLMAO - I guess unless abomination answers, I'll have to assume that's the kind of music...not really my realm - lol
Oh and sly by Pipple	Dec 24th, 2006 11:34:32 PM
I think Sage deserves a bow for his performance in Rocky V. He really is a chip off the old block. I always wondered what happened to him because he showed a lot of good potential as a performer and I wanted him to come back for Balboa. The new actor in the role did an excellent job though and I thought it honored your own son's original performance very well.
Sage is directing by Flanagan	Dec 24th, 2006 11:36:49 PM
Check out IMDB.
Sly, you need to sneak a cameo into Trek 11 by zillabeast	Dec 24th, 2006 11:54:11 PM
A small, unannounced role. Perhaps of an alien yelling, "YO" at his comrade in a bar scene or something. Yeah, that would rock.
Mr. Stallone!!! by trugigolo	Dec 25th, 2006 12:07:42 AM
Hey there! I must admit that Rocky Balboa was my first Rocky movie, and I absolutely loved it. Sure, I knew who Rocky was but had never actually watched one in all my 21 years. Yet, for some reason I was compelled to stay up late at night and watch this movie the night before it came out (I'm a projectionist at my local movie theater). And I am truly glad I did. There were so many themes and messages about life in the movie that I can relate to and strive to live out each day. (And here I thought nothing good was coming out this holiday season.) The film has heart, which is truly lacking in a lot of films. Just the other day I was watching the audience's reaction when Rocky begins training and then the music kicks in, and you could just see a sea of smiles- people rocking there heads to the music- AWESOME! That's what it's about- creating something that everyone can share in and enjoy, so I just would like to say thank you and job well done, sir!
Dear Mr. Stallone by Wee Willie	Dec 25th, 2006 12:12:16 AM
First off, Merry Chritmas to you and your family. All the best for the season. Looks like Rocky Balboa is going the distance and for that I am very glad. I just wanted you to know that back in the early 90's, Rocky V saved my life. I saw it during a very down period for me and my family and that film, flawed as it is, reminded me that keeping your family together and sticking up for your loved ones is the most important thing in life. Congrats on the film, and Happy New Year. You are the true definition of what it means to be star. Eye of the tiger, bro.
--To add to the Rambo IV suggestion box....-- by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 25th, 2006 12:21:28 AM
First of all I'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. The guests just left, it looks like a tornado went through this house, and I am here eating the last piece of chocolate cake someone brought while taking a breather before cleaning. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas, I wish you a happy and safe winter break. It's a time for family. As for my suggestion to the Rambo suggestion box...this is actually my little sister's suggestions. :) She's in college and has never seen a single Rambo movie outside of brief clips. The suggestion is to address today's "entitlement generation".....kids these days, who as Sly said never had a "rite of passage", never had that real physical life challenge...they just feel they deserve everything they are getting, and arrogantly just talk like they know everything. It's an attitude that pollutes today's youth, and irritates my sis...the pussified men that somehow impress the youth of today....she'd like Sly to please show the old school definition! The squad that Rambo leads in Rambo IV should be very good at what they do, and they do everything by the book. Very technical and systematic, and arrogant about it....like a kid who reads 10 books about how to fix a car and suddenly he's arrogantly thinking he knows how to fix a car. Today's generation. (Please don't make them have generic personalities, like a jock, a nerd, the token girl, etc...that's for cheesy horror movies.) But when the time comes, when the equipment fails, when things cannot go by the book anymore, this new generation squad panics as they are caught with their pants down. It's time for Rambo to show them old school , teeth gritting survival. Please don't make it completely one sided though. Rambo's weaknesses in favor of the team should also be addressed. In the beginning maybe Rambo should look like a fool trying things the old ways when the team has developed so much faster and efficient new school methods. Okay, sorry for this being so long. :)
Rocky Balboa by martichora	Dec 25th, 2006 12:35:33 AM
Hey Sly, I'm a lifelong Rocky fan. I've seen every movie in a theatre (first one @ 5 years old!) and it was a real pleasure revisiting some of those old feelings again seeing Rocky Balboa. The word that keeps coming to mind is TASTEFUL. Yo Sly, you did it! What a great bookend to quite possibly my very favorite cinematic icon. People - if you've enjoyed ANY element of ANY Rocky movie EVER, you MUST see this film!! The heart, soul and sincerity are back. A couple of thoughts... - I loved the new 2-Disc Rocky DVD & I'd love to see ALL of the films including commentaries, bonus footage, etc. - Who won the fight between Apollo & Rocky @ the end of Rocky III??? Rocky Christmas everyone!!
To Mr. Stallone, if you would be so kind... by pwrof3	Dec 25th, 2006 12:55:20 AM
I saw ROCKY BALBOA earlier today and after digesting it for the last several hours I must say that this film transcends anything I thought it would be. I was expecting more of a boxing type film but you made RB into what made ROCKY win best Picture in 1976. The story in RB was very heartfelt and warm. Listening to Rock give his great lessons on life to Rocky Jr. and Marie really brought the character back to his roots. It was also great that Rocky still had his sense of humor, even if it was toned down since Adrian's death. I have a message I would like to share with you: Even if ROCKY BALBOA does not do as well as you are hoping, I want you to know that I understood your message loud and clear. My friends said the film would have been better if Rocky had won the fight. I told them that that was not the message. The purpose of this film is that Rocky did it - much like Rocky I - when all of the odds were against him. It's not about winning or losing it's about beating the odds and showing that if you're heart is big enough and your mind is focused, you can accomplish anything. I understood your message, Mr. Stallone, and I am sure that everyone else posting on these Talkbacks understood your message. We are all behind you and doing everything we can to get your message out to the public. Thank you for giving us Rocky one last time! He will truly be missed! Just two quick questions for you: Towards the end of Rovky V, Rocky mentions that he doesn't want this life anymore (living poor in Philly). However, in RB he is still in his old house making a decent living running Adrian's. What happened to Rocky in between V and RB that made him content to live stay? Also, where did Rocky's statue go??
you're right, pwrof3... by Cotton McKnight	Dec 25th, 2006 01:00:35 AM
I was going to say the same thing tonight. Even if it doesn't make another dime (and of course it will), this movie is an absolute phenomenal success. Mr. Stallone not only let Rocky go out with grace and dignity, but he created a film that connected with people on a very deep emotional and even spiritual level. I know this is a dollars and cents business but as a true artist, I know he's gotta be smiling about that. Well done.
You Da Man by Tcal	Dec 25th, 2006 01:15:50 AM
Sly, What more can I say? You da man! Keep it up. Tcal
Sly is the best... by Mhael1972	Dec 25th, 2006 02:04:37 AM
Ive been coming to this site for years, multiple times daily, and until I saw these amazing talkbacks, I had never wanted to actually register for the talkback. It amazes me that a celebrity of his status would do this, and be so fun and candid while doing so. I think it shows a genuine level of class that more celebs should think long and hard on. I just said hard on...lol Nighthawks is my favorite stallone film; Copland was Phenomenal, Rocky and Rambo(First Blood especially) go without saying; Cliffhanger rocked; Cobra holds a special cheesy place in my heart as does Over the Top;Shade was really cool although it was under the radar, Eye see you wasnt that bad; Silly me, I liked Get Carter; I loved Victory... Anyhow, sorry for the long post, I just wanted to be able to say these things in hopes that he reads it. Thanks Sly. Thanks an awful lot.
Merry Christmas, Mr. Stallone.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 25th, 2006 02:15:19 AM
and Merry Christmas to Yackbacker, GibsonUSA Returns, CherryValance, and all the posters here. I have really enjoyed the exchange these past few days and its nice to have a good discussion here. I don't think Mr. Stallone knows this but it is EXTREMELY rare for us to all be on the same page about anything. Anyway, May God bless you all and happy new year!
It's bittersweet by Pipple	Dec 25th, 2006 02:18:51 AM
Here we stand now all of us at the end of it all. It's over. I'm glad I could be here to experience it,. Wtf, this is history, real hardcore history being made. The last Rocky EVER... Damn, well here's how I rank all your rocky films now stalone. Rocky Rocky Balboa Rocky II Rocky III Rocky IV Rocky V My favorite moment is in Rocky Balboa when Rocky Gets and mason looks at him like he's seeing something inhuman. Why this works so well I think is that because we as an audience know Rocky's a legend so having it confirmed in that moment WHY was bliss. It's the top rocky moment... what myths are made of. And i don't give a crap if it seems like sycophantic over-praise, this shit was awesome and I'm going to say so.
Seasons Greetings by proper	Dec 25th, 2006 02:29:49 AM
Sad news people.James Brown has passed away,that man was pretty much responsible for everything we hear in one way or another,a real pioneer,Ask Sly he'll tell you.And as there is a Rocky connection,any memories Sly..........It's too easy to link the youtube clip of him high so I've kept it seasonal http://tinyurl.com/yghabd..... ......Funky Robot Clip (I've waited 20 years to see this clip again) http://tinyurl.com/ybz64s..... ....In His Prime.........http://tinyurl.c om/y8rrar........Have a good day everybody,There is a Rocky marathon on TV this week,Still ain't seen Rocky V,What do I do????,Watch or don't watch that is the question..........
Heartfelt criticism...I do it because I love you by Project Mayhem	Dec 25th, 2006 03:42:16 AM
This film was maybe the most heartful of the year. The scenes in the beginning where Rocky is visiting places where he used to go with Adrienne to were so touching, it was as though Stallone was visiting his own past and glory...I loved this film, all the way through till the fight. Why oh Why did you decide to film the fight as an HBO PPV special? I loved the rocky films because I was able to watch cinematic fights, not PPV ESPN shit, with digital cameras and whatnot! Although the fight ended great, throughout msot of it I was just annoyed at watching it that way...I mean since you stuck to a nostalgic look throughout the film, using the same music as the old ones, why not just film the fights like you used to? other than that, Stallone's really matured as a filmaker, providing more art in many scenes than he has in any earlier attempt. Well done man, I'm glad you're back... A Stallone Fan from the Arab Land
Doing good at the BO Rocky! by Mace Tofu	Dec 25th, 2006 03:55:52 AM
Hope you have some good profit points in RB because it will be turning one sooner than "Night at the ..." will ( if ever) + You have them beat in the ratings over at RT . Wonder which movie will have the repeat and good word of mouth business next weekend? Glad your having a Merry Christmas Sly and thanks for hanging with the fans. I'm not seeing the movie till Thursday so I'm bummed I didn't help the BO out but RB is the only thing I'm seeing in the theater this year so I won't help the others at all lol. I see many postings here on remaking RAMBO 3 On RAMBO 4 but I think it would be great to carry over from 3 the idea that Rambo worked with these guys and now we are at war with them. Rambo could run into them anywhere not just in Afghanistan again - in the US - at GITMO - they come looking for him for more help? This could put Rambo in a mess because to them it's the same war and to Rambo even though he has real problems with the US he doesn't want poor Americans killed to make a point. The movie could take place around 1993 around the first WTC attacks so no matter how things turned out for Rambo in 4 we still know 9-11 will happen later ( kind of a damned if you do ,damed if you don't no win thingy). This could be a good way for Americans to work out their feelings about our current war thru Rambo's dilemma "are my friends Monsters? I know my bosses are." Anyway I know you'll have a good story for us and look forward to both films!
I have never seen a Rocky movie by DorkmanScott	Dec 25th, 2006 04:03:05 AM
I know, I know. I'm extremely remiss in my movie knowledge, but I think that's an important note to make. I have never seen Rocky, or Rambo. My knowledge of Stallone was Demolition Man, and the various parodies of him that you see in movies and cartoons and what-have-you. But Sly, you have done something amazing with these talkbacks. You opened your heart to the whole world and made us all feel like you were our friend. Earlier today, at a holiday party I attended, the subject of RB came up and -- again, having never seen a Rocky movie to date, and not wanting to see RB until I see what preceded it -- I found myself defending the film from the detractors claiming it was nothing but a money grab. Everyone on this site knows better. My respect and admiration for you has gone through the roof since you started these Q&As, and I wish you all the best.
yo by dimebag4000	Dec 25th, 2006 04:11:10 AM
Sly, youre a classy individual.. cant wait for the film - doesnt come out till Jan 11 here!!! Merry Christmas All Drunk Dime :)
Sly, you are the man, let there be no doubt... by Wldmk	Dec 25th, 2006 04:26:32 AM
...if only for the fact that you went along with AICN Talkbackers in such a fashion, which i don't think has been done before. Proper, sad news indeed about Brown. Of Rocky V, in two simple words: Watch it. Even if you were to think it was the worst movie ever, which i certainly don't believe it to be, and i've seen some films (i live abroad) which have made there way worldwide that have had no existance right whatsoever in this universe... Anyway, my view is that watching Rocky V will undoubtedly make the viewing of RB that much more better - and like Sly said, "...but I thank God ROCKY V was terribly flawed, otherwise I never would’ve ended it this way"; dealing with the bad helps to really appreciate all the good and great that comes afterwards. From the other side of the globe, congrats, Sly, on a well deserved success and thank you for giving us fans such a terrific ending to a long lived saga. I think i speak for many, many people when i say that RB was more than anything we could have expected and hoped for beforehand. Merry Christmas & Happy Hannukah, Sly and all the AICN folks!
Sly continues to be the epitome of cool... by Sledge Hammer	Dec 25th, 2006 04:31:53 AM
...always wanted to see him make a 'Rocky like' comeback these past few years, hopefully this new Rocky (which we in Oz don't get until Feb next year) will be the catalyst in making that happen, reminding not just film fans, but hollywood at large, just how great of a screen presence this guy was when he was "on" and firing. Here's hoping anyways.
Wldmk by proper	Dec 25th, 2006 04:48:15 AM
Thats all I needed,cheers Sir I'll do that,have a good Xmas.
WOW by Rowley Birkin QC	Dec 25th, 2006 04:56:19 AM
I certainly didn't expect this. Very, very cool. Merry Christmas! You've officially won me over.
Paradise Alley by Crackerman	Dec 25th, 2006 05:04:07 AM
Its a fantastic movie! Why no DVD UK release? :-(
wow speechless by the_shogun_gunslinger	Dec 25th, 2006 05:13:38 AM
Sly...you're seriously a class-act, man...loved RB and cant wait to see what youve got next :) even watched a little Death Race 2000 today, lol...love it whenever you would just snap into a rage in that flick. thanks again Sly!
I want more Rocko by omega786	Dec 25th, 2006 05:23:21 AM
I get the feeling that Rocky is the kinda guy that just won't stay down. I wouldn't bet against him for another outing in twenty years time as a pure mickeyesque character! In the meantime i wouldn't mind a ROCKY tv series, ROCKY comics, ROCKY animation and more ROCKY games!
Try Ebay by omega786	Dec 25th, 2006 05:25:30 AM
A great place to find those rare SLY dvds such as Paradise Alley.
Sly, Please read this. by balboarules	Dec 25th, 2006 07:08:42 AM
Sly First of all, I have been a huge fan of yours since my father took me to see Rocky II in 1979.. Since then, I have never missed one of your movies on the big screen.. I have been collecting Rocky items since I was a kid, and I have one of the largest collections in the country. Some day I hope to be lucky enough to meet you, it would be an honor for me. I wanted to thank you for Rocky Balboa, you like the character have done the impossible, critics everywhere said you should not make this movie, and no one would go see it, now they are all eating their words, it was such a fitting ending to the story of the greatest character in cinema history, and you should be proud. Rocky is not a movie to me, Rocky is a friend to me. I just wanted to be able to thank you for your work, no matter what critics have said about it, WE love it Sly. Your the best! Steve SCascella@cox.net
Mr. Stallone... by ZooTrain	Dec 25th, 2006 07:14:59 AM
I've always thought you were a stand up guy...but these last couple weeks, my respect for you has gone through the roof. Thanks for the excellent read.
What a Great Xmas Gift! Thanks, more than you can know! by Long Tooth	Dec 25th, 2006 08:14:31 AM
Waking up Christmas morning and seeing him take the time to respond...It really warms the heart. I'll be smiling for quite some time!
Wow, so many talkbackers by nuetro	Dec 25th, 2006 08:22:59 AM
Thanks Sly for doing this. I am truly convinced you are a genuine and authentic class act now. Rocky I and now Rocky Balboa have inspired me so much in the past few months that I have started running my heart out in Chuck Taylors', and actually ran a 5k in them. Nothing gives me that extra inspiration after two miles of running for the first time to sprint and run as fast as I can than Gonna Fly Now. If it weren't for that, I'd probably be a meatball fatso. So thank you Sly for helping me change my life some.
the overwhelming positive response is amazing by bigbadbua	Dec 25th, 2006 08:51:08 AM
not many films get this type of reception on this site. I'm sure some of it has to do with the Q+A's with Stallone, but I never expected this film to be so universally liked on this site. And just like almost everyone, I love this film, and consider it one of the best I've seen this year.
One amazing film from an amazing guy by mukhtabi	Dec 25th, 2006 08:51:59 AM
Having only seen the first and fourth Rocky Movies - still unsure how that came to pass - I must admit I wasn't that interested in seeing this current film, til I read the 200 questions. Mr. Stallone, you are one heck of a guy. Saw the film, and I have to definitely say Rocky must embody all the good stuff in there. I absolutely loved the movie, and as a filmmaker, if I can EVER infuse a character with half the heart and soul that goes into a Rocky film, WOW that would be something. So I salute ya, Stallone, that was a really great ride. And yeah I'd be up for a Poe movie.
yackbacker by beefywhore	Dec 25th, 2006 09:07:35 AM
Sorry I didn't read your comment till I woke up this morning...but it put a Christmas morning smile on my face..thanks for that.
What I want for xmas.....a response from Sly by condor75	Dec 25th, 2006 09:11:12 AM
I've been a long-time reader, but this is my first post. I couldn't resist,seeing that Sly is actually taking the time to read through all these. Who would've thought a man of his magnitude would give us all this attention--he's really making a change in hollywood---and they don't know it yet--a forum to commiunicate productively with those that buy the tickets. I received $20 as a present just to go see Rocky Balboa, which I haven't seen, and it may be the best present I got. I grew up with you Sly, defended you against the naysayers, and stuck by you no matter what. People will see what you've done here and I think it will change things. Merry Christmas, Mr. Stallone, you've certainly made our year!! Ps thinking of entering the next Instone contest again, I didn't win in 05', does the winner still get to meet you? I can guarantee victory if that's the case!! It would be my dream! Thanks again.
Pirating by optimus122	Dec 25th, 2006 09:39:50 AM
I could have pirated the movie the day after it came out but I can't stand people who steal out here in the real world and just because it's on the net it don't make it any different. Besides even the best version of a pirated film looks and sounds like crap when compared to the big screen and just the feeling of the crowd etc..
It ain't right by Pipple	Dec 25th, 2006 09:44:13 AM
to see the last rocky movie ever on your computer screen.
Stiller's movie on the other hand... by Pipple	Dec 25th, 2006 09:54:13 AM
Fire up that modem, I say.
Not only did I not download Rocky Balboa.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 25th, 2006 10:36:39 AM
I could have gotten a student discount that would have saved 2 dollars but I didn't want to do it. I don't want to turn this into a discussion that has nothing to do with this movie, but if people really believe in something, they will pay for it. Mr. Stallone deserves every single cent he gets from this movie.
I don't mean to be disrespectful, stoopidrider.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 25th, 2006 10:40:18 AM
because I really think you believe the things you are saying, but you are inventing an issue so people defend themselves. I mean I just got finished telling the world that I didn't take a student discount, and for what? Because you made a blanket accusation? Ridiculous. My advice to everyone else is to ignore this. Maybe stoopidrider will just move on.
ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY! by conandestroyer	Dec 25th, 2006 11:04:38 AM
Sly I am from HongKong, but the movie is not scheduled to be released yet. I cannot wait to experience the whole theatre shouting 'Rocky, Rocky!' I know I can BT this moive but this is one I believe we have to watch in theatre (not many can be said of those Big movies this year, including PoCS 2 - a real boring movie with no new idea). I shall go ask my friends .. eh, from the 70s (real funny), to watch this. Can you answer me a few questions? 1) I think Rambo 3 has excellent excellent action scenes. But why is the ending feels kinda rushed, with so many disjointed actions scenes? Like one minute Rambo is carrying a PKM heavy machine gun, and the next moment it is gone? I know Rambo 4 would be more like Rambo, but would you not sacrifice action altogether? I think Rambo is a bit too light on heavy action. Maybe not like Rambo 3, but more like Rambo 2? I still cannot forget that good feeling when I watched Rambo 20+ years ago, and yet gets my blood pumps up even more when I saw that TV commerical saying Rambo 2 is coming! With heavy assault helicopters (come on, every boys love military machines with big loud engine sound) flying around, and even Rambo firing that M60E3! Awesome! Best of all, it has a legit statement to make (on forgotten vietnam warrior). Thanks for this time bring us up to date about the world event - Burma, where a legit government is overriding democracy and slaughter the resistants in today's world (so what is US going to do anything about it, in a place with NO oil but 2nd producer of opium?) So maybe this time the statement is about forgotten smalltime war that got ignored? 2) Why are you like many regard Rocky V a failure? I love it. I think it is another form of Rocky VI. Eveyone gets one get find their dream diminished. We rest our hope on our kids, hope them acheive something. And Tommy in Rocky V is just his baby, to make Rocky feel reborn again. It is a very human thing to present Rocky. I think it also brings up the fake fight among fighters which another brave steps to do as well. 3) Can you explain again on how to use the seashell in Demolition Man? I still cannot get it! Thanx Sly I am spreading words about your new movies to all my friends Ric
Yo, Yackbacker! by Flanagan	Dec 25th, 2006 12:24:32 PM
Maybe you can help me out. I posted this on talk back yesterday. I've not heard a peep from anyone. I am very serious about this. This whole Stallone talking back to us is incredible and why not take it one step further by creating videos of our favorite Stallone scenes? What can we do to spread the word on this? Thanks Yackbacker : - ) At the opening of ROUND 1 Moriarty stated A.B. King was the SINGLE MOST IMPASSIONED STALLONE FAN ANYWHERE. I beg to differ. The number #1 Stallone is me. : - ) Really! I'll even challenge this A.B. King to a Stallone monologue act off. We'll put them on video. As a matter of fact, I'll open this up to anyone and everyone who wrote into the Q & A's. Come on FANS. How comitted are you? Here's what I think aintitcool should consider while the Stallone fire is red hot. Anyone interested can do one, two or three monologues on video from any Stallone film. Then we send it in to aintitcool so they can post the top 10 videos or anything else they decide. Fans can vote online for their favorite videos. Then the winner gets to meet and perhaps get a walk on role in Rambo IV. What do you think?
Hey, Sly! by DocPazuzu	Dec 25th, 2006 12:41:13 PM
I have a question regarding your influence on those around you when it comes to physical fitness, but first I would just like to once again state how incredibly entertaining and enlightening it’s been to have you hanging around the den of iniquity known as AICN TalkBack for the past few weeks. I’ve been a big fan of most of your work and to have you come in and shoot the shit with us has been amazing fun. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors and look forward to seeing you here again! As for my question; one of the most shocking and awesome moments for me during a lifetime spent watching movies is when a couple of friends and I were spending an evening with beer, junk food and a few B movies. While watching one of the films, Hot Blooded with the ever-so-delectable Kari Sahlin/Wuhrer, we were stunned -- STUNNED! -- to see the main bad guy played by none other than Burt Young. It wasn't his presence which was so mind-boggling, but the fact that he was running around toting a shotgun, in tight black jeans without a shirt -- and he was fucking ripped! Needless to say, we sat in initial flabbergasted silence and with a considerable amount of guilt while ingesting the truly horrible food and beverages before us. Paulie, of all people, had put us to shame! My contention then was “Sly’s behind this for sure!”, and my question now is, were you indeed in any way responsible for Burt's decision to get "the eye of the tiger", even if it was a short-lived period for the man? I must have an answer to the Ripped Paulie Enigma (RPE) before I die. Merry Christmas and thanks again!
Yackbacker by Flanagan	Dec 25th, 2006 12:48:31 PM
Thanks buddy. I've never been on the zone, but I'll give it a shot. If this thing never takes off keep an eye out for my scenes. I'll be doing the "It's up town for Cosmo" back alley piece from "Paradise Alley" and "Nothing is over"!, the ending in "First Blood". Two very doable scenes. : -) Let's do this!
CoffeeAndCinema by streakerfreak1983	Dec 25th, 2006 01:17:43 PM
Merry Christmas to you too and to you also Sly.
sly, in case you feel like answering more... by JimmyJoe RedSky	Dec 25th, 2006 01:46:51 PM
how would you feel about starring in a movie adaption of eric powell's "the Goon" - one of (if not THE) best comics in print right now - and a multiple eisner award winner - have someone send you some copies, i bet youll get hooked - plus - have you and mickey roarke ever sparred (in the ring)
Rocky and Christmas... by Grendy	Dec 25th, 2006 01:49:57 PM
So, I saw this film at BNAT 8 a few weeks ago, and came back to Atlanta raving about it. It was 'the feel good' movie of the festival. I was SO not in the rocky-camp going into it. there was much speculation about if it would play beforehand... Sitting next to me brother (who had been teasing Saffy about tearing up in both Dreamgirls and Inherit The Wind) and catching him from the corner of my eye wiping his tears away during Rocky Balboa was something I though I'd not see. He whispered to me that ROCKY was the first adult movie mom had taken him to see. Since my mom died in '98 I guess he never thought he'd remember her that way again. For christmas, one of the things I got him was the 2-disc ROCKY on dvd, sent to his house. I gave him a wrapped box of tissues as a gift as well... so he could take it home to watch the first movie and cry with hankies available. Hope you all have a great time with all your family and friends this season. I for one am damn glad to be with my family, and damn glad I got to see ROCKY BALBOA in such an amazing crowd at BNAT8.
I feel compelled to come back and chat with you guys by Pipple	Dec 25th, 2006 02:16:18 PM
I'm soon to be on my way to the theater to see RB again. I ain't downloadin' shit. I do this out of love. Why the hell do I love rocky so much? I don't really know. It's just something I saw on tv one day that grabbed at me like nothing I've ever felt before and RB brought it all back. There's going to come a time years from now when some kid is just chilling in their living room and some tv station plays all the rocky movies back to back. THE ROCKY SAGA. And it's going to be like heaven for that kid. That's what it's all about in the end, I think. Just like it was for me. Alright, enough of this sappy stuff, gotta go. Harry, Stallone. You did real good.
I have to share... by KabutoKoji	Dec 25th, 2006 02:19:38 PM
something with you Talbackers. I got the goosebumps of my cinematic life, when in the last round, Rocky gets hit the hardest and he's about to go down. Then he reaches deep and the flashback of "what was it you said to the kid"? It's not how hard you can hit, it's how hard you can GET hit and keep moving forward", comes in. Then the music starts and a close up of Rocky lifting himself up one more time. The look on Dixon's face is out of this world. Damn, that was a powerful moment! Sly, respectfully, I want to say thank you and tell you something. I read somewhere that the head of the studio at the time Raiders of the Lost Ark was greenlit, thought that that script was the best script he had ever read. He called it "the perfect script". I sincerely feel the same way about the first Rocky script. That script is just perfect. The fact that Rocky Balboa resembles that script, yet is another animal altogheter in its power, flow, poetry and message is a great credit to you. You and yours should be very proud of you. Thank you for making a film I can show to the people I care about and tell them "learn from this". But thank you as well, because I can now and always will be able to use it for myself as well. I got all the messages, Sly. Every one of them. I will write a bit more later. And with that...the rest is silence.
RE: Rocky and Christmas by Flanagan	Dec 25th, 2006 02:23:41 PM
You see. For so many of us there's still some stuff in the basement. This is exactly why Rocky is so special in so many ways. I saw Rocky Balboa on opening day and I myself tried like hell not to cry like little kid. This film comes back to us in so many different ways. "Braveheart", "Star Wars", "Chinatown" and "Gandhi" were all very, very great films but what in the hell does "Rocky" do to us that makes all get up everyday we're down and say..."Okay, today we win". There are two scenes where I lose it everytime I put in a Rocky film. The end of the first film when Adrian starts crying, the other when Rock is at her bedside when she's in a coma. You know. "Win!" It's unbelievable. Merry Christmas everyone. And to everyone who's on Prozac, throw your bottle away and go run with Rocky music blasting from your headphones. : - )
Thanks, Sly by IMScully33	Dec 25th, 2006 02:43:41 PM
Reading all this Q&A was alot of fun. And thanks so much for sending Rocky to BNAT 8--I honestly wouldn't have seen it otherwise. And I really enjoyed it, no lie. It impressed my dad to no end that I had seen it before his favorite sports radio guys had. He is so excited to see Rocky Balboa--he missed opening day thanks to being out of town. I doubt he'll let me buy the ticket (you know how dads are, being one yourself!) so I bought him the complete DVD collection instead. So thanks for making my dad's Christmas. :P
HOLY SHIT! by Freefinger	Dec 25th, 2006 03:09:24 PM
THANKS SLY! Hell thank you for giving us a good movie, 'cause lately not a whole lot out there to make our movie going experience worth wild!... Gotta love the Sly for doing this!!
This has been a rediscovery for me by Lou C.	Dec 25th, 2006 04:07:09 PM
Growing up, Sly was my hero. Any movie he made, I was there and I loved it. Before this talkback, I hadn't revisited some of his movies in a few years and, now, I suddenly find myself excited all over again. Rocky Balboa was a wonderful film, one I'll see again. But through his tremendous openness and grace here, and Rocky Balboa, I'm suddenly addicted to all my favorite Sly movies. Merry Christmas to you, sir, and thanks again for doing this.
Rocky Balboa by pilotgrl	Dec 25th, 2006 04:12:38 PM
Sly, your Q&A and film have finally prompted me to register and post a message here after having visited this site since 2000. Thank you (and Harry) very much for your respect toward us film fans and sharing your wisdom. I enjoyed Rocky when it first came out but I will admit that, aside from Copland, which was very good, I've been pretty "Stalloned-out." But, your Q&A was so honest and cool, it was clear Rocky Balboa was a labor of love. I decided to see it this morning and I'm glad I did. It's a very enjoyable and fitting end to the Rocky saga. Boxing is not my favorite sport but the film got me muttering "kick his ass, Rocky!" The scene in the street between him and his son really hit home for me. I hope the box office receipts end up beating a piece of dreck like "Night at the Museum," but even if they don't, your pride in your film is well-deserved. More power to you, Mr. Stallone, and please come back soon!
Michael Bay should do a Q&A with Sly standing there.... by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 25th, 2006 04:20:57 PM
Michael Bay should do a Q&A here with Celeste sitting next to him and Stallone standing behind him crossing his arms with an angry look. And every time Bay says something stupid, Sly nods and Celeste smacks Bay. Keep him in line.
Rocky always goes the distance. by tile_mcgillus	Dec 25th, 2006 04:28:39 PM
Thanks for the comment Mr. Stallone and Merry Christmas. Besides we all know money isnt the earmark for a great movie. Rocky Balboa will get what it deserves. Much respect.
What the.... by veritasses	Dec 25th, 2006 04:34:23 PM
heck is Stallone still doing here? Please ban him from reading the TBs. He should be focused 125.1% on Rambo and Poe. As much it'd hurt us to not hear from him for a while, I think it's for the best so that his future projects are as successful as Balboa.
I just watched Rocky 1 for the first time, by iamnicksaicnsn	Dec 25th, 2006 05:12:21 PM
based off of Sly's generosity on this site. Just gotta say it was a great movie, and I actually read this article last night, and it kinda brought a tear to my eye, just to see such a big celebrity come back and be so cool to everyone. I'm glad he inspired me to watch Rocky, because now I can look forward to watch the rest before I go see Rocky Balboa in theaters. Merry Christmas everybody!
Stallone on SNL - Where to find Orange Julius? by Savio	Dec 25th, 2006 05:12:43 PM
The Stallone working in an Orange Julius is one of my favorite skits ever, does anyone have it and would be willing to youtube it or know where I can find it? Thanks!
Yo Rock! by thefutureoffilm	Dec 25th, 2006 05:39:50 PM
My Mother and I saw the movie today. I cannot say how much we enjoyed it. It made her cry at least 3 times. There were moments that put the biggest grin on my face and I just want to thank you for that Sly. My only question..if you see this..is where was Clubber Lang and Drago? I thought they were supposed to have cameos in the crowd during the fight or something.
Don't forget Australia ;-( by Retrosurfer	Dec 25th, 2006 07:09:07 PM
Sly We have just found out that they have delayed the launch of Rocky Balboa from 4 January till 1 February. What gives? Aussies are just as big fans as the rest of the crew up there. Does this mean you are going to come to Sydney for the Premiere? Dont forget its Summer down here and you could take the family to the Beach in between press conferences (lol) Luckily I'm coming up to the USA early January and going to the Moive is the first thing Im going to when after I get checked in. Thanks for keeping the Dream alive. Rocky will be huge again in Australia.
thanks for the kind words about russians by icedtea1996	Dec 25th, 2006 07:23:50 PM
cause im one of them ;) i have a friend who hangs up as soon as i mention rocky balboa on the phone - but just because hes so die hard, he wont even look at a promo picture in order to go into the movie totally fresh... after we ve seen it here in germany, ill tell him everything about this geek thing ;) best, andrej www.andrejgontcharov.com
charity by canopus	Dec 25th, 2006 07:27:33 PM
Charity is a wonderful thing, I participate in a program where I work where I donate money out of each paycheck to the organization of my choice, so it feels like I don't even miss the money. It was kind of cool that the one guy gave the money he was going to spend on Gears Of War to the Red Cross, but that also means that he has spent at least six hundred dollars for a PS3, and has probably bought other games for sixty bucks a pop or more (or rents them), and will do so again in the future. So I agree that it's good for us to donate to charity when we can, but there's no need to tell people how selfish they are when you own a game system worth hundreds of dollars yourself. So good job with donating a little bit of money to charity, and I mean that, but let's not get carried away, it doesn't mean you're Mother Teresa.
Just came back from 2nd viewing by Zorak5	Dec 25th, 2006 09:01:35 PM
And it was just as powerful as the first! Plus, the theater was sold out crowded. I went with two other people, and it was so full that we each had to sit separately in order to find seats. The crowd was even better than the one on opening night. They applauded several times during the film, including when the credits first came up on screen. The film still had its emotional punch. We loved it. Thanks again for a brilliant film and performance!
Question for Spanish speakers by Zorak5	Dec 25th, 2006 09:02:39 PM
In the film when the pregnant woman at Adrian's mumbles something in Spanish when Paulie shows up, what is she saying? Can someone translate? It got big laughs from the audience. Thanks.
Stealing Movies by antonphd	Dec 25th, 2006 09:06:01 PM
Shocking statistic about people who steal movies. They also tend to be the same people who are into animal sex. So, how can you say that illegal downloading films is a victimless crime? What about Lassie and Willy? Is rape not as bad if it's animals? It's wrong, it's just wrong.
ROCKY BALBOA delayed in Australia? by Adam B	Dec 25th, 2006 10:56:33 PM
Yo Sly, we were originally slated for January which was bad enough, now it's been pushed back another month. What's the deal?
stupider and others - something better to rant about by snomusic	Dec 26th, 2006 12:13:52 AM
http://tinyurl.com/yke6o3 and you can do something by sending yer rants to yer congressman
Here's a question for Sly . . . by ZeroCorpse	Dec 26th, 2006 01:54:26 AM
You're familiar with "director" Uwe Boll, I assume. Have you heard about him challenging reviewers to boxing matches and actually winning against the pasty non-athletes who accepted that challenge? I would like to know if you would do us all a favor and invite Mr. Boll into the ring with someone like yourself, who knows how to hold his own in a boxing match and will give a better performance than a mere Internet tough guy. Seriously, Sly; Clean his clock for all of us. The guy needs to be put in a ring and offered a proposition: If he loses, he stops making making movies. We'd all be grateful. Honestly, I think there's a HUGE difference between a guy like you, who makes movies as a labor of love, and a guy like Uwe Boll, who is clearly running a racket where he makes some cash for making bad movies on purpose due to some awkward laws in his home country. Knock him out in a fair competition, Sly. Pretty-please?!?!
Who Else Is Going To See 'Rocky Balboa' On Boxing Day? by deacon27	Dec 26th, 2006 02:54:14 AM
C'mon, you KNOW you have to!!
THIS IS IMPORTANT! by Captain Happy	Dec 26th, 2006 03:24:00 AM
I went & saw Rocky Balboa the other day with both my mom & my wife. My wife cried, my mom cried & I cried. I was practically welled up from the first frame. It's an important movie which represents what others don't value anymore. Story, integrity, heart & your own personal truth. Whatever that may be. & that you must follow it & stay true to your dreams by respecting yourself & not listening to the naysayers in the room, because they don't know anything about your personal truth. These films have changed my life. Stallone; Joey Ramone also mirrored Rock when he said "I got knocked down but I'll get up" - he was a fighter - even though he died - he died recording his last album, scrappin' to the end. I think Rock woulda been proud. I know I was. Stallone, your next movie should be a biography of the Ramones, a biopic. These guys were legendary scrappers, survivors in life. & you did such a good job with Rocky Balboa I think you could honor these guys in the way they deserve to be remembered. Thanks, Sly, for such an outstanding picture and a breath of fresh air in a movie-world filled with now shameful reflections of bygone ideas. Thanks for making the movies meaningful again. Keep it up! Best, Max, NYC
To Bootleg OR Not to Bootleg? That is THE question! by Joey_Redballs	Dec 26th, 2006 03:28:42 AM
As for still-in-theaters bootlegs...I personally am not into them. #1. Downloading bootlegs is too risky nowadays. Internet Service Providers have sent threatening letters to people I know and other groups have even started lawsuits with other people I know. Yeah, that's overkill and a waste of resources if you ask me. Will these allegations hold water? Doubtful thanks to the old "I have an unsecured wireless connection that someone hijacked so it wasn't me" defense. And in one case, that's really what happened. Nonetheless, downloading bootlegs isn't worth hiring a lawyer to save your ass. #2. Buying DVD bootlegs of still-in-theaters movies doesn't make sense to me. If you're lucky, those bootlegs look & sound 75% as good as an authentic DVD. If you're not lucky, they look & sound like shit and have dumbasses actually walking in front of the camcorder they used to tape it. Or worse yet, the DVD has authoring issues and don't work right. Why pay money for that? If I wanna see it that bad, I'll go to the movies. But some young parents have argued with me that it costs them nearly $100 to go see a movie. How? If they take the wife and kids, they're paying $7-10 bucks per head. Then they have to buy expensive refreshments for everyone. Last but not least, they spend even more money on the gas to get there and back. But what if they leave the kids at home...then they have to hire a sitter. So they download or buy a bootleg of movies still-in-theaters rather than wait for video. BUT WHAT ABOUT RIPS OF DVDS OUT IN STORES? Well, I have a whole other opinion about that! If you rip your own (not selling them) and you paid money to rent the DVD you want to keep but don't want to pay $20 to buy it...then fuck it...don't advertise you're doing it and you won't get caught. BUT WHAT ABOUT THOSE BIG AMAZING MOVIES MEANT FOR THE BIG SCREEN AND A LIVE AUDIENCE THAT NO HOME THEATER CAN RECREATE? Well, you got me there! Those are the movies you have to find a friend(s) to hop in the car with and head to the theater. THE ROCKY MOVIES ARE THOSE MOVIE THEATER KIND OF MOVIES! (sans part V) Why? These movies don't have giant explosions or amazing special FX? Then why? Because each Rocky movie has a big ass fight in an arena. Seeing it at the theater is almost like being in that big arena for the fight. It's NOT just the big screen (that you can almost feel like you have via 50" plasma screens and home theater surround sound). It's the LIVE THEATER AUDIENCE that gives you that feeling you're right there in the arena watching Rocky fight. The audience in the theater reacts just like the audience in the movie! Suddenly you're there. And because Rocky V lacked that big arena fight...I haven't felt that same feeling of being there since seeing Rocky fight Ivan Drago back in 1985. Did that movie really come out in 1985? That's what imdb.com states. Damn! I was freaking 6 years old...and I still remember feeling like I was there. I was psyched from the moment I saw those shiny rotating gloves, then suddenly they crashed and exploded into each other...and we hadn't even seen a fight yet! Remember the cutaway shot of Rocky Jr. and his friends watching Rocky's comeback in the Drago fight. Those kids were hopping in their seats and punching at the air while cheering Rocky on. I was one of those kids in the theater during Rocky IV. The closest I felt to having a Rocky movie theater moment since then was seeing Gladiator with Russell Crowe (not the stupid Cuba Gooding Jr boxing movie of the same name). And even then, the coliseum fights had a different aura about them. More scary and gross than exhilirating, but Gladiator had a few of those moments too. To get back to the subject line, no matter what your stance is on bootlegging/piracy...FUCK IT! GO SEE ROCKY BALBOA IN A BIG ASS CROWDED THEATER! That's my plan this week. My friends and fam were either too busy or exhausted to see Rocky Balboa this holiday weekend...but if no one is available to check out Rocky this week, I'll sadly but gladly go see it by my damned self...lost in the crowded audience and childhood awe.
Support from Switzerland by Beltorak_69	Dec 26th, 2006 03:51:17 AM
Greeting from Switzerland. I have been a long time Rocky Fan and to see it coming back to the big screen is amazing. But what is much more amazing is what Mr. Stallone did with this Q&A and with the talkbacks. I have the feeling as i would know him, he amazed me with his attitude, how he thinks about the world, how honest he is. I live in Europe and i am far away from meeting any hollywood stars, i have seldom the chance to meet or see somebody, but what he did with this, gave me a sense of "he cares about the audience, and it is not only the money", This is something i never felt before. I hope Rocky Balboa will open huge in Europe, unfortunatelly, i do have to wait till february. Mr. Stallone, thank you for being this person and thank you for giving me something to look forward to. Maybe your are coming to Europe to support the Movie, i for my part will try to spread the word that there is a great stroy coming our way :-) (sorry for the english, it is definite not my natural language) Again, Greetings from Switerland :-))
Bootleg by antonphd	Dec 26th, 2006 04:41:56 AM
Why is there a question about bootlegging? Why is stealing movies a question about whether or not it's the most economical route to aquiring your entertainment? And why the hell would anyone steal a Rocky movie? It's about a guying being the opposite of the kind of person who steals shit. What's the attraction to a movie like that by someone as pathetic as a bootlegger? Is it just a way to pass time? Staring idly at the screen? Do you even connect emotionally or comprehend what you are watching? People who steal entertainment are worms. Shit, people all over the world are enduring starvation and homelessness from natural disasters and you guys are stealing movies?! How much more can you suck? Really. There's no excuse for theft of entertainment. None. You are just a thief plain and simple. And not even a thief trying to just get by. You are stealing entertainment. People have a right to survive, but to be entertained?
Alright Sly. by huyg	Dec 26th, 2006 05:23:58 AM
I just wtached Rocky Balboa this morning and I've got to say, I'm impressed. In this day and age of $200 million blockbusters going nowhere, this is the most human film I've seen in a long, long time. It made me laugh, it brought a tear to my eye but most of all it entertained me in the most pleasant way possible. Films like these are few and far between.
the_shadow by CherryValance	Dec 26th, 2006 09:19:49 AM
On Boxofficemojo it said that the actual tickets sold won't be updated until Wednesday.
Ok, sure, Rocky Balboa isn't a 100 million dollar smash by Sledge Hammer	Dec 26th, 2006 09:53:23 AM
...it's no massive blockbusting record breaking juggernaught, but it still made a very respectable amount of money for it's first week. I mean it's practically already made it's budget back, that's nothing to sneeze about, so we're already looking at a profitable film before it's second week is out, and before any international releases, and way before the eventual DVD and rental and tv and cable sales. Hopefully it'll have legs at the U.S. box office, and that the cumulative effect of all the combined releases, along with the favourable critical response that the film has gotten - something no one would have predicted - will mark to the powers that be that Stallone still has it, and that the man and his projects are worth their support and money. And also, hopefully, casting agents and directors of a-list material will open their eyes to him again. The man has earnt his comeback, hopefully we'll see him get it.
Yes abomination! The acting challenge. by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 11:03:51 AM
That's what I want to hear! FIGHT! You're the first I've heard on the site who supports my idea for an ACTING CHALLENGE! Yackbacker liked the idea too. Hey, we need to stay in touch on this... so if nobody else gets in on this we'll shoot our own and post the "TRIBUTE TO STALLONE VIDEOS" at youtube or some place like that. I'd really like the challenge to happen here at AICN however since this is where the spark began. Let's do this!
If you think that was cool by Cherry Chuck	Dec 26th, 2006 11:14:49 AM
then check this out: http://tinyurl.com/wraah
Shouldn't Rambo IV actually be called John Rambo? by FatPaul	Dec 26th, 2006 11:47:14 AM
I mean, if they like Rocky Balboa as a title for Rocky VI, then John Rambo should kick their asses for real. I'd watch it.
Awww... by nonsensical	Dec 26th, 2006 12:09:26 PM
Now, I wish I had asked Sly a few questions. I saw Rocky Balboa while waiting for my flights. (There's a theater near the airport. Go figure.) I liked it. Sure, the emotional section of the film, which has three distinct parts, was a bit long, but good. The training montage, was a bit short, I felt that for his age Rocky should have maybe shown a little more in the way of physical problems intially that he would overcome, and the fight. Nearly the right length, but it just felt rushed at times. There was just something a little off in the pacing from round to round. I suppose that has to do with the fact that we saw the first round almost in its entirety. Still, I liked the film a great deal and I do think this is a perfect end to the Rocky story. I wish I could skip over Rocky V in that set but it's part of the whole. There was something to be told there. Maybe I'll get to work with Sly later... then I'll ask him a question or two, gotta make 'em good though.
Oh yeah.... Stooopider... by nonsensical	Dec 26th, 2006 12:11:23 PM
Shut the hell up. I don't know your position and I don't care. You're wrong so shut up.
How far would you go to meet HIM? by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 12:21:40 PM
Here's my little story. Stallone was filming "Stop or my Mom Will Shoot" at a remote airfield in Santa Rosa Ca., about an hour north of San Francisco. At the time I had my own business transporting dealer automobiles to auctions. I had a two car hauler. My company name was "Nighthawk Auto Transport". Catchy, eh? So here I am in my two car hauler driving to who knows where in Santa Rosa, Ca. I was totally guessing as to where to go, I had no idea where the production shoot was. I mean, how many abandoned airfields do they have in Santa Rosa right? After about an hour or so I find the airfield and pull up in my tow truck. A big faded red thing stands out like a sore thumb. Anyway, there's nobody around, no guards or security at this point. I stop my truck and get out as I spot the film crew on the tarmac in the distance. Just like a scene out of "The Six Million Dollar Man", seconds later 3 Jet Black Town Cars pull up and stop about 50 yards from me, just on the other side of the hanger. Now that's gotta be him. I secure my truck and walk toward the hanger and make my way to the other side. There I see grip trucks, trailers and a few PA's walking about. They eyeball me and don't say anything at this point. I make my way around another little area and there I see I big bus of an RV thing. You could retire happily in this mobile home. Looked like it cost about $100 million for this thing. I know it's his because the front license plate bared the Black and Yellow Stallion insignia, the same one on his Harley in Rocky 3. I had to use the bathroom right about now... I decided to hold it. I waited for a few minutes then decided to make my way toward the SET which is near the front of the hanger. Once at the hanger I spot Mark De Alessandro. If you're a Stallone fan you know who this is. If you don't know who Mark is he's worked on a gazillion films as Stallone's stunt double. I met Mark briefly at a San Jose film event so I'm thinking maybe he could get me a walk on for the day. Anyway, before I can get any closer I'm approached by this little tiny 2nd, 2nd AD, headphones and all. She says "what are you doing here"?, L.A. attitude and all. I'm not a very good liar so I didn't have much of a reply and was asked to leave. Needless to say, I didn't get....................... Later I booked a room at the hotel Stallone was staying at. All I wanted was to shake his hand and say thank you for getting me in the gym at 18 and not taking the cocaine path that was at my doorstep saying "come on in, you'll love here". Once I got into my room I use the restroom...LOL, then made my way to the Hotel Gym. I was wearing my boxing shoes, a bit much I know but hey, at least I'm in the gym. It was a cold gym no other guests and no Rocky music. So I'm the only one in there doing curls on a pulley machine that needs a squirt of WD-40. I was quiet. I trained for an hour, he never made it. On my way back to my room I pass Tony Munafo instructing some very big guys on what to do. I was actually a fan of Tony's too. Before He started working with Stallone on Paradise Alley he acted in a film with Tom Skerritt called "Fighting Back". You may have seen this film, pretty cool flick. Anyway, I don't say anything to Tony because he just looks like the kind of guy that would squash you just by looking at you. By the end of the day, I didn't meet Stallone but it was one hell of a day. I waisted alot of gas driving to Santa Rosa but I did get a half way decent workout. So, if by chance you happen to read this Sly, you have a very nice RV. : - )
**My viewpoint, from the perspective of hindsight** by JDanielP	Dec 26th, 2006 01:11:13 PM
Perhaps this isn't the best place to share an opinion of "ROCKY BALBOA" ...where Stallone is kind enough to respond to individual talkbackers. But it seems to be as good a place as any. Unfortunately, I did not see "ROCKY BALBOA" with a pumped up crowd of rowdy fans. After all, that's part of the charm of seeing a ROCKY flick in the theatre (unless we're talking "ROCKY V"). No, ...I witnessed the flick with a small number of people whom were very quiet. But with today's movie-going audiences, that shouldn't be such a bad thing, right? But with "ROCKY BALBOA", I really was longing to experience the days of past, ...of the time I witnessed the original with a theatre full of fans, cheering for Rocky during the inevitable boxing finale. In some ways, I find it quite challenging to comment on a movie from the perspective of hindsight. No person knows what the final result will be, in trying to interpret a story for an audience. Not even the director knows that, trying as hard as one might to realize his/her own (sometimes unique) individual, artistic vision. But "ROCKY BALBOA" did feel like a "love-letter to the fans", as Sly Stallone intended. If the results of a film (like "ROCKY BALBOA") are even close to what the director (Stallone) intended, who are we to criticize? So, in this sense, all I can do is offer my own personal feelings of the movie. And keep in mind that, like everyone else, I do this from the perspective of hindsight. As can be said about the RAMBO movies, it is the original that is the most life-like. Sure, the original "ROCKY" made use of dramatics in the boxing ring... but the story felt more real, more true. And "ROCKY "BALBOA" seems to mimic the original. I enjoyed "ROCKY BALBOA"... so I'm compelled to give it a "thumbs up" for the Rocky fans whom have yet to see it. But in terms of school grades and my own personal perspective, I'd have to give it a "B" ...or perhaps a "B-". And that's not easy, with Stallone being so open to us here, in the talkbacks. Like most everyone else in the talkbacks, I'm a fan of the man. And I want Sly to do well and to keep making GOOD movies. But in being brutally honest, there was a moment (or two) during the fight where I felt embarrassed for Stallone... because the televised-look of the fight did more to expose the reality of what was happening. Sure, the televised-look may have been intended... but it did more to expose the dramatics. And such dramatics look better in tighter shots. And on top of that, it did more to expose Stallone's physical age, despite his great condition. I'm not saying that we fool the audience with camera tricks or touch it up with computer technology, things of that nature. I'm simply saying that if the movie had pulled a bit more from the playful and dramatic style of "ROCKY III", ...if it had a Dirty Harry moment of Rocky handling a more deserving guy at a bar, ...if it played more to who we (?) desire Rocky to be (while considering his age), ...would that be such a bad thing? Well, maybe it wouldn't, ...but congratulations goes out to Sly for being true to himself and his own personal vision. Apples and oranges, my friend. Many people, like myself, do like both.
Good news for Sly by canopus	Dec 26th, 2006 01:26:15 PM
USA Today says the weekend total for RB was $16.3 mil, and that it skewed surprisingly young, 49 percent of the audience was 18-34. I think we might have really helped with that part of it. I know we all wanted the movie to make 30 mil, but Christmas is when families go to see movies together, so something like a silly Ben Stiller/Robin Williams movie is going to get the lions share of the profits. The people that make a living forcasting box office receipts seem pretty impress with the opening, so who am I to argue with them.
I'll be damned if this isn't the coolest... by Jaka	Dec 26th, 2006 01:51:44 PM
...most down to earth thing I've ever seen a "celebrity" do. Granted, maybe it was possible until the internet and the communitues that reside here grew and evolved to this point. But I'll tell you what keeps crossing my mind - there has never been anything like this. The closest thing I can think of is Kevin Smith's internet activity. But Kevin, he is "of us". Even if we don't like, get burgers with him, he's still closer in age to a lot of us and his films live in the indie-geek world. Sly, basically, what I am saying, is that you are the fucking man!
RE: Stoopider and Yackbacker by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 02:05:27 PM
Guys! Guys! Guys! Go back to your corners and rethink things. Breath through your nose, it helps. As Stallone would say, "you're suckin' wind"! Let's try to keep the UPBEAT STALLONE forum that was created for us up and going. If you guys both have so much energy help me create this STALLONE VIDEO CHALLENGE I really want to happen. Shanks!
abomination - very cool by snomusic	Dec 26th, 2006 02:24:37 PM
"In the words of Johnny Storm (nearly put Blaze - lol) "Oh that's so cool." I might even have a reason to look forward to the still totally miscast FF now. BTW, ya never answered the question about what kinda music you were a journalist for - I'd hate ta think it was the Pan flute....
RE: Stallone b.s? by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 02:49:13 PM
Hello chickychow. This talk back forum is pretty much for die hard Stallone fans. Do you have a good question or comment?
Reluctant movie-goers... by idahomer	Dec 26th, 2006 02:54:04 PM
My wife was taliking to her 25 year old nephew yesterday and told him how great RB was. He mentioned that he wanted to see it but others (GF, Mom, sibs) didn't. My wife proceeded to get each of them on the phone (they were all at one house) and tell them how much she enjoyed it. At work today I've had the same reaction. I think as the word spreads people will go. USAToday had a nice little Q&A with Talia Shire also, which I don't think they would have run unless the movie was doing well. And I for one, hope the "silly questions" continue for some time.
Being wrong on this was sweet by MiserableRainGod	Dec 26th, 2006 02:56:45 PM
I didn't think you could do it, Sly. I wanted you to do it, but I didn't think you were going to. Well, you did. I saw the movie with a bunch of people. The theatre was clapping and cheering, my fiance bit off all the nails from her right hand, and I just had a big ole smile on my face. Just one question, though...why no Clubber cameo?
Re: Thunderlips..I mean Thunderballz EGO by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 03:31:49 PM
Wow! I am so impressed. Just a couple of questions for you. Have you ever written a screenplay? Have you ever shot anything? Have you ever acted in anything? Have you ever done all of the above all on the same project? You wrote such a great piece I'd just like to know what you do? Would you consider writing a movie for me because you nailed that piece.
Rocky by lobo65	Dec 26th, 2006 03:58:13 PM
Mr. Stallone I saw your movie at the midnight showing Saturday night, and loved it. I'm sure it was a difficult decision to leave Adrian out of the film, but I thought you did a great job showing the resulting grief that Rocky was feeling. Very good movie, and you looked in great shape for your age. I hope RB is a big hit for you.
Miami Vice... by idahomer	Dec 26th, 2006 05:01:16 PM
Since it was devoid of any soul I guess I missed all the good things about it. Maybe I don't know a lot about movies, but RB pushed many of the right buttons when you start discussing filmmaking.
chicky chow-take the challenge and floss later by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 06:02:23 PM
At the opening of ROUND 1 of questions one of the writers stated that A.B. King was the SINGLE MOST IMPASSIONED STALLONE FAN ANYWHERE. I beg to differ and I'm sure hundreds if not thousands of fans around the globe are saying the same thing. Now, I don't know who this AB King is but I do want to say this. The number 1 Stallone fan is me. : - ) Really! I'll challenge this A.B. King or anyone else who cares to jump in on this contest to a Stallone monologue act off. Here's the deal. Anyone interested can do one or two monologues on video, from any Stallone film. aintitcool can host the top 10 videos then people can log in and vote for the favorite pieces. The the winner gets a walk on role in Rambo IV or maybe meet and lift weights for an hour. What do you think?
Obesity can be controlled by performingmonkey	Dec 26th, 2006 06:07:21 PM
Just stop eating.
Nope, still about respect. by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 06:31:56 PM
The man's earned it. You have to admit that. I know all about bias, all that shit. But even if Stallone didn't give a fuck about me personally, I'd still do the right thing and thank him for delivering a great send-off to his character. And the fact is, in reality all the rocky movies have their good and bad points. That's the way it is.
wow can't believe this is still by streakerfreak1983	Dec 26th, 2006 06:57:47 PM
getting talkbackers on it. Luckly there are only a few asses in this talkback
Rocky stories book by rockystoriesjeff	Dec 26th, 2006 07:26:20 PM
I know Sly might not see this, but for anyone out here... I'm in one of the people profiled in the book Rocky Stories by michael vitez. Im story 43 in the summer (jeff o'leary.) I thought the clips of people running up the steps in the closing credits was brilliant and a great nod to the fans. Thanks Sly for writing the forward to the book and giving my whole family a great movie to share together. My uncle Rocco, aunt, and my cousins were all there opening in CT and we bumped into Brian Kenny in a theatre in Plainville, near ESPN. He nothing but great things to say about you too.
Maybe Bridgette is replying by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 07:26:47 PM
who knows
Hey Harry by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 07:36:15 PM
Tell Bill murray to stop being a puss and do Ghostbusters 3. What's he scared of? Stallone did alright.
since when does garfield deserve a sequel more by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 07:40:40 PM
than goddam ghostbusters? come on...
it doesn't have to end... by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 07:41:48 PM
take the FREAKIN' VIDEO CHALLENGE!!!!
Yo Orcus by proper	Dec 26th, 2006 08:55:59 PM
Good to see you about sir ,I thought u and the others got wiped out in the AICN timeline purge.Big up to all the ZeroTB Peeps.
Thunderballs by streakerfreak1983	Dec 26th, 2006 08:56:16 PM
Hey I really liked The Fountain and Miami Vice. I love both of these directors, but in my opinion, you are an ass.
Sly's no pussy so I don't need to defend him by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 09:02:16 PM
Like some chump hiding behind anonymity to take shots at anyone on the wacky world wide web. I will say that I don't know anything except how I felt watching RB. It's some good shit, that's for sure. I usually don't believe what celebs say in interviews when they say 'best movie I ever made ever', or something to that effect, since it's obvious they're just there to promote their work. Sly promoted RB here, there's no doubt about that. He knew it. We knew it. On with the interviews... and did you enjoy it? I did, so no complaints. I'm no bitch. He's also done something I've never seen before on this site. He made some of these sad motherfuckers happy. Once again, no complaints there Thunderballs. I'm starting to like this happy feeling.
Oh and talkback isn't castrated by Pipple	Dec 26th, 2006 09:48:11 PM
It's just warming up to bitch and moan about all the new movies next year. You'll see. We aren't that easy to beat... har har :o oy... I'm going outside...
Thunderballzzzzah! by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 09:59:24 PM
I'm actually 43, a little older than a teenager. So you've made a feature length film I take it? What's the name of it? I've not seen the Fountain yet but I'm probably going to make a point of it since I'm hearing so many good things about it. There are alot of good films out there and they're all good in their own way. I loved "Babel" for example.. I took my son to see "Happy Feet" and really enjoyed that too. "Rocky Balboa" simply brought me to tears for so many different reasons. Bill Conti plays a big part of that. If your 8 year old son was sitting next to you with his eyes glued to the screen, you'd understand why. My boy listens to Rocky music and wants to pump cans of tomato sauce from the kitchen. I love it! And how many people do you know in their 60's working out with kettle bells? Deep down with all of us on this forum it's much more than just the opening of RB this past weekend. It's the spirit of things I guess. Going the distance and never giving up at whatever it is one is doing. I really can't think of any other filmmaker or actor ever, who has done what sly has done. PERIOD! Who are you? I'd like to see you in my video challenge too.
VIDEO CHALLENGE by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 10:18:22 PM
I don't have a deadline. I'm hoping Harry would pick up on this and help promote this event. I'll keep trying over here, we'll have to see. Can you help spread the word? If nothing happens soon I'll move on to plan B and keep all of you updated. We can post videos just about anywhere now right? And now is a good time for this... right smack dab in the middle of Rocky Balboa and John Rambo. Thanks for your interest.
Congrats on Xmas Box Office! by Zorak5	Dec 26th, 2006 10:29:11 PM
So glad to hear RB did well on Christmas! I thought it would. I saw it again that night and the theater was packed. Thanks again, and here's hoping for much continued success at the box office.
Give Rocky Balboa a chance by DARTH VOODOO	Dec 26th, 2006 10:41:47 PM
To all the people w/ Rocky V still on their mind. Rocky VI is truly a very, good(borderline) great film. It may not be "the best" film of the year. But, it's my favorite film of the year. All I can say is go see this film. You will not be disappointed.
KEEP IT COMING SLY by THE KNIGHT	Dec 26th, 2006 10:49:23 PM
Don't forget about us!
one more thing by Zorak5	Dec 26th, 2006 11:00:02 PM
I was talking with someone and we both thought it would be a neat idea if Sly did Inside the Actor's Studio. It would be cool to hear him relate his stories to an audience. Unless he's already been on? For some reason, I don't think so. Rocky Balboa was a unique moviegoing experience because unlike so many other movies recently, you feel like you're watching real characters, real people with souls. It's lacking in so many movies lately, but you really captured something special on screen. Thanks again.
VID CHALLENGE Anybody on this forum from San Jose, Ca.? by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 11:06:02 PM
I'll need some help on my video. We can help each other shoot. We'll use my camera. I've got the Canon XL-2 with lights and decent boom mic. I'm going to have a hard time finding someone to play Trautman though.
++I feel this is like watching a real live fight++ by omega786	Dec 26th, 2006 11:22:42 PM
This feels like a real fight. ROCKY BALBOA vs THE BOX OFFICE. A contest of true grit vs sleazeball critics. Sly has got to prove them all wrong...not just for himself but for every guy hoping to become an actor, writer or director and who just wants a shot at his dream without being cast aside at the very first hurdle. This is for all those independent filmakers...the real soulmakers of film. The biggest geek of us all is actually Sly no mattter how much fame he has and he truly understands what is at stake here. I am not therefore surprised that he has come to AICN...it's where his soul originates from...it's where his soul group is and where he is most comfortable....in geekland, where true originality and creativity emanates from. This film MUST do well or else we may never have another RAGING BULL. It's upto all US domestic fans and all INTERNATIONAL fans to participate in it's success.
I still didn't hear no bell by omega786	Dec 26th, 2006 11:33:55 PM
Round 1 - Sly announces ROCKY BALBOA......Round 2 - Stallonezone gives it's roar of support...Round 3 - Craig Zablo takes over the RockyBalboa BLOG...Round 4 - The trailer kicks ass...Round 5 - Sly undertakes the TV/print media circuit...Round 6 - lack of advertising budget causes Sly to undertake own initiative and sly brings the fight to the fans at AICN...Round 7 - 20 days of Q&As and further talkbacking sparks a riot cauing the film to defy critics estimates and outperform...Round 8 - US domestic box office will exceed targtes...Round 9 - INTERNATIONAL gross will exceed targets...Round 10 - Sly lifts the belt of personal redemption and recognition
Sly by optimus122	Dec 26th, 2006 11:42:44 PM
Its amazing it had a bump as I read that Dreamgirls is doing fantastic business ( monday it made 9 million from only 900 theaters )and so is Black Christmas so Bravo to you again. Like I said , Rocky will end up being a nice money maker after DVD and TV rights..you did a great job seriously , and Im not homo..i would have bashed the flick long time if it sucked. We seen it 2 times already. OK I got to go..peace.
BTW by optimus122	Dec 26th, 2006 11:44:35 PM
Wepner gave it 3 out of 4 stars..he said he loved the movie while of course getting in the old its based on my life shtick lol..its in the NY POST I believe or the Daily News.
--Does Sly really think us all as big, pimply geeks? by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 26th, 2006 11:46:16 PM
Lol. This is not the Harry clone wars. We all look different. :) BTW, I am watching Oscar for the first time as I type this. Hehe Stallone's character reminds me of Dark Helmet from Spaceballs. :P (No offense Sly...and I love Spaceballs :))
TO THOSE WHO HAVE SEEN IT ALREADY by omega786	Dec 26th, 2006 11:46:20 PM
*******WATCH IT AGAIN*********
Oh....Mega! by Flanagan	Dec 26th, 2006 11:51:02 PM
Very nice! Very nice!
ROCKY BALBOA DVD SPECIAL EDITION by omega786	Dec 26th, 2006 11:51:28 PM
Yo Sly, From all this box office i am sure you can put out an uncut edition of BALBOA including an extended training montage(with the 'cut me mick' shirt), additional fight footage, music from eye of the tiger as heard in the trailer and a word of thanks to all of us talkbackers in the end credits.
Hey Flanagan! by omega786	Dec 26th, 2006 11:53:51 PM
I appreciate it.
I saw it tonight! by Orionsangels	Dec 27th, 2006 12:08:08 AM
It was a very moving film. Stallone wrote some memorable dialogue for this film. That will be remembered for years to come. Some interesting tidbits about the film. Wasn't it interesting how the big fight at the end was filmed? It looked live. That had never been done in Rocky film before. I also like the flashbacks and black and white imagery during the fight. How about when Rocky is fighting and and the annoucer says, "Welcome to Rockyland ladies and genetlemen!" and that music (I believe the track is called 'Conquist') kicks in. Which was used to great effect in RockyIII. That gets your heart racing! Didn't the film start to feel like a dream sequence towards the end?, like Rocky dreamed all these events. Events he wished would have happened. It just felt very dream like. The filmed seemed a little rushed when the training montage starts. From then on the movie moves at a steady pace and before you know it. It's over. This is a great ending to a classic franchise and yes I cried at certain moments.
Hello all, good to be back after Christmas.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 27th, 2006 12:09:19 AM
and it's REALLY great to see the returns for Christmas day. I am going to see it again on either New Year's eve or New Year's day, and I suggest everyone do the same. What a great way to kick off 2007.. the life lessons, the inspirational messages, you name it. Heck I may not even be able to wait that long to see it again.
I figured Christmas day would be good by CherryValance	Dec 27th, 2006 12:10:49 AM
Sunday was weird with all the shopping people. And when they were introducing Rocky on TCM tonight, Robert Osbourne mentioned the new movie. So maybe that'll get some older folks to go. And then later during the news, I think, I saw a new commercial with all the critics who said it's great. That should definitely work on the snobs. So see, it's building. No problem. Now, have we all voted on the various "best of 2006"s around the net? If not, get a move on.
Okay that gives me an idea. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 27th, 2006 12:11:41 AM
I just got finished posting that I am going to see it on New year's day or New Year's eve, and what I want to know is if you care to join me. We could start our own movement here, and we could see the power of the talkbackers in action. Like I said, it's a GREAT way to kick off 2007. Who's with me?
$26,697,118 RB six day official Box office totals by Mace Tofu	Dec 27th, 2006 12:13:44 AM
Should do $30 Million for the week and by this time next week everything it makes should be pure profit in the bank. : )
And it's funny how public sentiment is changing ... by Cotton McKnight	Dec 27th, 2006 12:16:54 AM
on these films because of Rocky Balboa. For years, I don't think this franchise was given proper respect, and I think it's in large part due to Rocky 5. The impact that movie had on the franchise is immeasurable, in both good and bad ways. The good of course is that from those ashes came Rocky Balboa, which may not have even been possible otherwise. Anyway, I digress. What I really wanted to say is that it's interesting because in those same forums I go to, people are talking about the merits of every movie, and the comments range from "absolute classic" to "fun popcorn movie". Rocky 1, 2, 3, and 4 are in varying degrees adored by the public, and it's REALLY great to see this franchise given its proper respect once again.
Oh and I forgot to mention by CherryValance	Dec 27th, 2006 12:17:34 AM
the theater that I normally go to, their last showings on Christmas Eve were at 3something in the afternoon. And then on Christmas their first ones were after 6pm. If other theaters did stuff like that, it might explain a few things.
Rocky Balboa in Canada by Truman11	Dec 27th, 2006 12:28:35 AM
Just saw it again today and was happy to see the theatre was still packed. Great experience with everyone cheerin along and general good vibes. Keep the dream alive!
Re: THUNDERFOOL by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 27th, 2006 12:36:03 AM
Let me ask you a question: What are you doing here? Because, by referring to us as "you Talkbackers" and trying to slam us as a whole, you position yourself as being outside that general category. So what are YOU? What are YOU to come HERE and not only slam the film, but completely generalize the talkbackers in their entirety, saying we are as a whole losers with low self esteem and easily impressionable? What type of person comes in from the outside and just starts bashing a whole (diverse) population with stereotypes? Don't you realize you're making your penis look incredibly small?? I like to respond to idiots like you and AK-47 using a numbered format, because retards seem to understand better that way. So here goes. 1.) Don't generalize people. The people who post messages here are as diverse as can be...a broad range of demographics. You don't know us, so shut the f*** up. I'll speak for myself. You judging me like that tells me YOU have esteem issues. I'll call things like I see them and don't need you second guessing my opinion. Piss off. 2.) Mr. Stallone is here to promote Rocky Balboa. DUH! He's wrote, directed, and produced the thing...you'd THINK he'd have some interest in it, you idiot. But how many stars have done what he has done here? IN promoting the movie, Mr. Stallone has shown himself to be a class act. Now, MAYBE it's all for show. Who knows? But it's not my business to think that far...I have my own things to think about. All I know is Mr. Stallone has been very outwardly nice and generous, and now I'm as big a fan of his as ever. 3.) I am a fan of the director and the stars, but Miami Vice sucked. Okay? Especially compared to Rocky Balboa. Did you just randomly pick a recent movie to say is better than Rocky? I'd take Jingle All the Way over Miami Vice. Sinbad 4 Life.
I'm not a fan of New Year's by CherryValance	Dec 27th, 2006 12:49:46 AM
so I don't want to contaminate the movie with my sentiments about the holiday. So I'll pass on that one. I'll go back though, just not then. About the sudden change in people's opinions on I-V. I've always been happy to wave my freak flag so it amamzes me how others have to go with what's cool. But you're right most people acted like the Rocky movies were just 'entertaining' and nothing deep or profound a couple weeks back. Now it's all suddenly changed. Like that "Well... Rocky I & II were good" mantra that's been going around for a few weeks. When everyone damn well knows they could do the dialogue from Rocky III in their sleep, and probably have. LOL. As long as they follow the crowd right into the theater, it's all good. But that Happyness movie is the real problem, I think. It's the same type of movie. I don't know what we can do about it short of getting Jaden to start hanging out with Paris Hilton.
I honestly don't care about box office by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 01:17:11 AM
I'm not seeing a cent of it. But I'm not too shy to ask. Hey, stallone, can I have some $$$? Just enough to buy a car. Really though, solid film and I hope it does well. I'm really more interested in Stallone's thoughts on James Brown's death. I'm not sure if he knows yet and I won't assume anything.
Right on GibsonUSA by streakerfreak1983	Dec 27th, 2006 01:18:05 AM
While I don't feel your it sucked sentiment, I did think it was a little random and odd to mention those two films. If say another boxing type film came out this year then he could have compared it to that but not a single one did or at least a noteworthy one. Anyways, I just realized I have never seen CopLand, so I went to Netflix to put it on my list of over 400 films and what do we know, CopLand is not out on normal release. Now I am bummed. Damn...
I do not think Happyness will be a problem by streakerfreak1983	Dec 27th, 2006 01:22:25 AM
Let's see... Rocky or Will Smith... Rocky or Will Smith... not too much of a challenger there. There are 3 generations, now going onto 4 of Rocky fans. It's a no contest.
Happyness = flavor flave by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 01:49:20 AM
ah, just couldn't resist... ;O
y0 Sly :) by slyizmyidol	Dec 27th, 2006 02:02:55 AM
Hey there Sly. I just want to say that I have watched Balboa 5 times so far. And I feel like I will watch it a lot more :) I cant tell you how great I feel with Rocky coming back. I want to thank you from my heart. I had the honor to see you in vegas on the 19th :) when you did premier there. It was such a great moment. Anyways Sly I just want to wish you a happy new year. And I beg you to not let us wait too long for another Stallone movie to come out. You taught us that the word retire shouldnt be there and so we do not want to hear it at all. I know you want to make more films by working behind the camera which is great but please Sly dont forget to make ones infront of the camera also :) We love ya Sly :) YOUR BIGGEST AND MOST DIE HARD FAN EVER....
Re: Inside the Actor's Studio by Bobo_Vision	Dec 27th, 2006 02:04:00 AM
Yep, Stallone has done it already. I think it was a couple years ago. It was priceless just to hear the host say something like, "And then, Sly made the world laugh by bringing us that wonderful gem of comedy called...'Oscar'!"
Wouldn't it be funny if... by markjamesmurphy	Dec 27th, 2006 02:05:52 AM
Wouldn't it be funny if Harry had just made all this up? It would be the greatest prank in the history of teh intar-tubes. http://www.markjamesmurphy.com
Pipple, The BO is how the suits will judge Sly by Mace Tofu	Dec 27th, 2006 02:21:23 AM
That's all they care about...Can SLY bring in the $$$ so the bigger the Box Office the more they will have to kiss his ass which is a good thing for a change plus we the Fans will get a bigger budgeted RAMBO 4. Plus not only the fan boys here but the critics love the new ROCKY so Sly is getting kissed from both ends! Congrats!
re Thunderballs by DocPazuzu	Dec 27th, 2006 02:28:17 AM
Let's put his comments regarding RB, Sly and talkbackers in perspectice, shall we? In case nobody else remembers him due to his infrequent posts, let me just remind talkbackers that T-Balls is also the guy who calls George Bush "a liberal", says that fascists are "left-wing", that Milosevic was a righteous dude, that George Clooney is "a homosexual" and that genocide of Muslims is a reasonable option for America to consider in its foreign policy. Don't believe me? Google his ass and see for yourselves. He's an unbelievable tool.
Oh... by DocPazuzu	Dec 27th, 2006 02:29:43 AM
...and if I recall correctly, Thunderballs also claimed once that there has never been, and can never be, such a thing as a "right-wing dictatorship".
correction by DocPazuzu	Dec 27th, 2006 02:32:32 AM
perspectice = perspective... sheesh...
DocPazuzu re Thunderballs by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 02:37:52 AM
lol
It's ok. I misspell stuff on here all the time. by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 02:41:37 AM
Well I'm sure Balboa will get what he deserves. It's a good film. You can tell Sly didn't just carelessly throw it together so he's got nothing to worry about except piracy which has been going on. People love Rocky and do want to see him. Will it be at the theater? News at 11.
Sylvester Stallone on SNL - The Orange Julius Skit by Savio	Dec 27th, 2006 03:03:36 AM
The Stallone working in an Orange Julius is one of my favorite skits ever, does anyone have it and would be willing to youtube it or know where I can find it? Thanks!
I liked this vid on youtube by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 03:31:06 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =SEg0jBNJfF4&mode=related&sear ch= When I watch that and read sly say he's a geek, I think he really means it...
I wonder, will there be a new Six Box DVD set of Rocky? by Orionsangels	Dec 27th, 2006 04:01:11 AM
Here's an idea. The DVD case could be the Belt. Imagine it. All gold and flashy. I'd buy that. I wonder if they're be any deleted scenes on the DVD.
I noticed on Rocky's career chart it said 23 loses? by Orionsangels	Dec 27th, 2006 04:03:18 AM
When did Rocky lose 23 times? I missed those fights. Was that a made up number or is this considered cannon in the Rocky Encyclopedia of knowledge?
Question for Slyre rambo 4 by bluelou_boyle	Dec 27th, 2006 05:18:39 AM
Do you think the goodwill generated for RB will carry over for Rambo 4 ? Do people care as much ? PS Bought Sly moves - Fun read and very inspiring. Can;t wait for RB Jan 19th in the UK.
Yahoo user reviews love Rocky Balboa by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 06:33:46 AM
http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/ 1809278368/user This is just one more place where this movie is getting an awesome reception by audiences. I'd say that this movie will have strong legs these coming weeks and months as it seems the general consensus is that this movie is loved by people who've seen it and while everyone else isn't rushing to see it ala a summer blockbuster they plan to watch it eventually.
It is good that those who love the movie keep talking by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 06:40:09 AM
because I'd say that based on the way audiences have loved this movie that this movie just needs continual word of mouth publicity to keep going. There were too many damn movies released this Christmas and it was tough competition with some very deserving movies getting the shit kicked out of them such as The Good Shepherd. As long as audiences don't forget about Rocky Balboa(and audiences tend to have extremely short attention spans and memories, sadly) it will run strong and there's no reason it can't pull in 75-85 million domestic. And that's not bad considering every fricking movie lover is going to buy this to add to their collection on DVD. So, this movie is going to be bringing home the bacon. I just hope enough to keep Sly's Box Office value up to keep him making great movies.
James Brown thoughts?!?! by Dazzler69	Dec 27th, 2006 06:55:55 AM
Just wondering Sly if you have any thoughts on James Brown! Great song Living in America he did for Rocky IV!
Wow, thats ridiculously awesome of Sly by Ricky Henderson	Dec 27th, 2006 07:06:14 AM
Just when I thought he was done wowing us. Damn he's a good guy.
Video Games by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 07:18:03 AM
One thing I have wondered is how in the world video games based on movies always manage to turn out like suck utter shit. I get how it happens in reverse. But aside from Vin Diesel's Chronicles of Riddick game(which was fucking awesome by the way) video games of movie are total shit. I mean... really really shitty. Which is weird, cause movies cost a fuckload more to make than games. I can't help but think of Rambo 4 and how much money there is in a genuine top quality Rambo game series. Going with a bit more actiony version of Splinter Cell and you have a fucking hot game franchise. And I don't know if Hollywood has noticed, but games make money. I've seen that Vin Diesel has Tigon Studios and they have 5-6 games in the works that look like they will be kicking series ass. John Woo has a game with Chow Yun Fat similiar to his movies which looks insanely cool. What I wouldn't give for a bad ass Rambo or even Assasins game. If you read this Sly and you have plans for a game for Rambo, please, for the dear love of God, don't go to a shitty studio that will punch out a piece of shit while overcharging you for the job. Rambo is one of those movies that many of us game developers loved and which inspires us. Let's be honest here... game developers(who make action games) want to make games that are movies where the player is the hero. That's the real goal. The get to really be Rambo and kick ass. There are some really top quality studios who would do Rambo justice and make you heaps of money doing so. Please, stay away from EA or unproven studios. I want to play Rambo looking and playing as hot as Crysis http://media.pc.ign.com/media/ 694/694190/img_3577746.html
Thanks For The Update Sly!!! by RobLeone	Dec 27th, 2006 07:24:32 AM
And thanks for finally making me want to sign up and become an official Talkbacker after years of visiting this site. Rocky Balboa was better than great and I believe this movie has what it takes to win the hearts of everyone, old and young. Salute Sly and welcome back Rock!!!
oops, bad link to image of Crysis by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 07:25:59 AM
http://www3.incrysis.com/scree nshots/crysis-hud.jpg - image - http://incrysis.com/crysis/ind ex.php?option=com_content&task =view&id=138 - website with more images. just cause these are pretty and everyone should check these out so they can drool wishing they had a Rambo game to play that looked this awesome! hint hint
Bryan Singer is even making a game by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 07:33:47 AM
with Vin Diesel. http://www.tigonstudios.com/in dex2.htm Hire Tigon Studios to make a Rambo game. That's the way to go. Chronicles of Riddick was possibly the best single player First Person Shooter game ever made. Hmmm... I wonder how Vin would react to getting to make a Rambo game... hehe... probably be reduced to totally geeking out.
Rambo 4 game by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 07:52:20 AM
hehe. I couldn't resist. I emailed Tigon Studios and suggested they contact Sly about a Rambo game. It would be sweet if they contacted him and made a kick ass game of Rambo 4. I just hope whoever owns the rights for a game hasn't given it to the devil... I mean EA.
Demolition Man game by antonphd	Dec 27th, 2006 08:33:12 AM
Damn it. Now my brain has gone into Stallone game mode! It would be sweet to play a Demolition Man game. It would translate to a game perfectly. I can see it now... the opening scene as you are about to bunji jump out of the helicopter 'send a maniac to catch a maniac' and then down you go and drop off shooting the bad dudes. You could make a game with Next Gen tech that looks as good as the movie and near photo realistic. Fuck me. Damn it. I want to play a Stallone action movie game! And you'd have to get bonus points for how many credits you get fined for violating the verbal morality law which you could spend to get a cheat to play a bonus level as Dennis Leary.
Stallone by PwnedByStallone	Dec 27th, 2006 08:49:17 AM
Why hast thou forsaken me?
23 loses and Apollo Creed... by idahomer	Dec 27th, 2006 09:23:45 AM
In Rocky, (which was on TCM last night) they mention that Rocky has 20 losses. Apollo and Clubber would be two more. I think it is a continuity error. Also Have a trivia question for you all. Although Carl Weathers refused to allow his picture in RB, he is represented in it. Anyone notice where? And Thunderballs, Miami Vice was simply boring.
Went on Christmas Day by Dasher	Dec 27th, 2006 09:27:28 AM
I could not have asked for a better present. Sly, you put your all into this one and it showed. Congratulations!
Abomination , correct! by idahomer	Dec 27th, 2006 09:48:32 AM
You win! I guess Sly threw in one extra win, loss and tie. He gave up the title to fight Drago, So that would have made him an Ex Ex Champ. Must have had three fights with someone. Yo Sly, fill us in on this!
BringingSexyBack, et. al. by PwnedByStallone	Dec 27th, 2006 10:22:22 AM
I HAD seen the film and my critiques have been far from generic. Maybe Sly showed NIAF a different version but in my opinion the one I saw wasn't worthy of the mass praise being showered upon it. I grew up with Rocky and enjoy the franchise (even V - perhaps that's a tell). Perhaps I have outgrown it but I simply found RB a letdown. Even unnecessary. But it's nice that so many people have enjoyed and found inspiration in the film. I didn't. All I can tell you is that my cynicism does not expand to all movies in general. That said, let it go on record here that to those who enjoyed this film (and to Sly himself) I apologize for broadcasting my grievances with the film in what many considered the wrong place and the wrong time. However I do stand by my analysis of the film and perhaps when the undeniable emotion that has been attached to this film has had a chance to fade somewhat, people will see the film in a clearer light. Until then I shall keep quiet about this film and Stallone. Until of course the abomination that will be Rambo IV has decended upon us all. Until that day...AK-47 out.
Sylvester Stallone biggest fan EVER!!! by Security23	Dec 27th, 2006 10:46:59 AM
Sylvester Stallone's biggest fan ever!!! I know it's long...but please put this to talkback-please... Hi Sylvester.I can't believe this is happening.You are reading and answering our comments.It's like one of my biggest dreams came throw (the biggest is to meet You).I sent something like 50 questions but Harry didn't choose even one.But If You are reading this at the moment...Oh my GOD i can't even believe.Oh my God...I am the happiest man in the world if it's true.Basicly...You are the biggest part of my life Sly.Since I was 7 You started to be my hero.By the way I am Polish and I am 23 and I live in UK now.I just want to say that You were the most important person in my life.There is no even words to describe that.I was born i a small Polish village.All my room was in Yours posters.I had all Yours movies and HUGE notebook with 2000 pages with articles and photos of YOU.I was sticking it for something like 12 years.When I was 16 my father came to my room and said that he would rather to see on my walls nakes woman than a man(You)By the way I am straight :).I was always with You.Now I am happy like ''Rocky Balboa'' was my movie.You are THE BEST.You are the GREATEST actor and person in the world.You were the biggest inspiration in my life-I had problems in Poland with my family(because I was bodybuilder and they didn,t like that) and with money...so I put everything on 1 card and came to UK without anything.Now I am working as Close Protection officer by the way.I am doing everything to have tickets for Uk premiere of ''Rocky Balboa''.I am so happy You did it Sly.I was waiting since 1990.Now I am waiting for new ''Rambo''.Sly I just want You to know that i would be a cleaner of Your shoes for free just to meet You.I would like to wish You Merry Christmas(for Jennifer and beautiful daughters as well).Happy New Year.I will do everything to be on premiere.I have one the biggest dream-meet You...Oh my God if You will read this I would ...run across London naked screaming from happiness.Thank You very much for opportunity Harry. Take care Sly-YOU ARE THE BEST All the best-Tom
The true nature of Thunderballs: by DocPazuzu	Dec 27th, 2006 11:18:18 AM
http://tinyurl.com/y6tjyc ...... this link is particularly satisfactory as the talkback not only has some choice statements from the goon himself, but also contains additional links to other, even more bizarre and odious comments from Mr. Balls. Enjoy.
thunderballs-you are full of shit by Security23	Dec 27th, 2006 11:27:13 AM
you are full of shit thunderballs-you are typical example of person who cnt sort his life and keep attaccking other people.I am so sick of You that I wolud kick your ass in real.Stallone is GREAT and RB will bring him a lot of Oscars-its fantastic movie. So-thunderball-sort your fucking life first - than come back here to make comments of people like us-all talk backers that's all
feeling funny all over.... by CrotchTartar	Dec 27th, 2006 11:28:01 AM
You know, its a strange kinda buzz having a living legend respond to something you've said. Thanks for the response Sly, it was a real gift. Have a happy New Year and I hope it brings you more professional and personal happiness. Hope to have you back on the talkbacks soon!
RE: Thunderballz by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 12:00:22 PM
I need to upgrade my computer because I don't have a FIST button here to lay one on you! You can say all you want about how you don't like Stallone but don't even start talking about our children. You're mighty brave behind your computer screen there. I bet you wouldn't say these things to our faces. If you did to me... I'd grab you by your throat and drag my boot down your shin ripping of the skin. You never answered my question ballzeeyguy.. Have you ever made a film or are you sour about being an extra in Hollywood who's not getting the attention he thinks he deserves. I'm no wannabe and if nobody takes my video challenge I'll do my own thing. I'm wrapping up my own production and thanks to THE INSPIRATION OF YOU KNOW WHO, I'm doing it. It's no pipe dream. See my trailer www.theunwilling.com Yackbacker...Yes, I'm breathing throuhg my nose.
on that video by CherryValance	Dec 27th, 2006 12:01:20 PM
Rocky specifically asked to not eat raw eggs again and Sly still made him do it. That's so wrong. ;)
Rocky Balboa - Go And See This Movie!! by Mike9675	Dec 27th, 2006 12:26:10 PM
Absolutely great film! As a 31 year old from Manchester (England) I was first acquainted with Mr. Stallone as a 7 year old impressionable young lad, watching a Rocky triple-bill at the local cinema. This would have been around 1982, and i'm not ashamed to say that 24 years later, i'm still a massive admirer of the Rocky series. Those films are inspirational, honest and motivating. Thanks for delivering with 'Rocky Balboa', Sly. It's exactly the film I hoped would end the series. I've grown up with these films and they mean a lot to me. Respect to you, I have a lot of good memories. Mike B, Manchester, UK
Suck my thunderballs by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 12:36:28 PM
I'll tell you the truth right now. If Stallone made a shitty movie that didn't make me tear up while watching, I wouldn't be here saying suck my thunderballs. So now here we are. Sylvester Stallone vs Cranky talkbacker... Rocky Balboa, You go the distance, baby!!! Fuck this guy.
RE: The unwilling trailer by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 12:38:55 PM
Thanks sexy. Great idea on the trailer. Gotta be careful with the after F/X though. That's actually a work in progress trailer we through together a few months back. Help me push this STALLONE VIDEO CHALLENGE, could you? It could get some well deserved attention for all of the Stallone fans on this forum. Hey, wouldn't it be cool to make a documentary highlighting "aint it cool" and Stallone and what he did here. If I can get a small budget and travel around to all you guys and interview everyone of you on your true feelings about all this. That would be cool.
Favorite remark about Miami Vice... by idahomer	Dec 27th, 2006 12:55:45 PM
"It's like watching a great chef boil a hot dog." Is "Avant Garde" still an apologist's phrase for "shitty and boring?" Good luck with that, Flanagan. I used to do some grip work and appreciate the effort that goes into indy films. I watched "Rocky" last night and it didn't have a particularly 'gritty' look to it, so why should "Rocky Balboa?" I thought Maria and Steps were fine characters, and I had no problem with Milo. People disagree about films. Get over it.
idahomer... by Orionsangels	Dec 27th, 2006 01:15:02 PM
When Rocky is telling one of his stories at Adrian's he mentions Creed.
Re: Sexy by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 01:25:20 PM
Hey, thanks so much for the great idea. Yeah I need to get out more and attend these events. Everything I have goes into making these films and raising my boy, yu know? Looking forward to your video too, you'll see mine soon, I won't abandoned this idea. : - )
Yeah and there were some lines by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 01:38:28 PM
commented on the film and I think stallone's own feelings about what he's doing by making his last rocky. "I've still got some stuff in the basement." "You're living backwards Rocko. Change the channel from yesterday. Yesterday wasn't so great." "It was to me." "This is the last round of your life, Rocko. The last round." "You're one crazy old man." "I couldn't have done none of this without you." "the beast is gone now, paulie." I was thinking "holy shit, this really is a goodbye film for Rocky." It's over. And the last image during the credits of older Rocky standing on the steps, not the kid, the real steps effectively enough for me perfectly sealed the deal as if to say Sayonara old friend. You began here and this is where it ends with rocky looking over philidelphia from the famous steps he climbed thirty years ago. It killed me...
RE: Gritty in Rocky by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 01:50:04 PM
Thanks Idahomer. You know... it's funny when we see a film and say it should be more gritty. What do we mean by gritty? The film look itself or the content that's in the film? I attended the Cinequest film festival one year and they were playing a very old print of "Dirty Harry". I couldn't wait to see this film again in a theater. The film was so gritty that 20 minutes into the film it snapped. It ripped in half. Just prior to that I was saying, "wow, this print didn't hold up very well, what a bummer". It looked really bad sorry to say. We all got rain checks and that was the end of that. So many filmmakers now days shoot on video and say, "we gotta get that film look". It's not gritty enough. What film look? These same filmmakers are now shooting with HD cameras and their films are as shiny as a soap opera and that's the way they like it. What happen to the grit? Now looking back... the content in Rocky is very gritty, it was shot in the 70's. Everything has changed so dramatically. Everthing is now so high tech, fresh and organized. It's no wonder we like HD. Ask Robert Rodriguez. "Shakespeare in Love" should have been really, really gritty since it happened so long ago...LOL... All the best my brothas!
Re: THUNDERFOOL, Part II by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 27th, 2006 02:15:20 PM
1.) Do you have a life offline you idiot? Here's some info: Not all people live online like you do, dumbass. For you to make the assumption that people garner their esteem from the internet forums makes me wonder about how pathetic you are. Just because you feel you are so ugly that you can't leave the computer desk (much less the house), doesn't mean that it applies to the rest of us. So take that assumption you have that we all build our esteem from what people say online...and throw it out the window because we are not you. 2.) If Uwe Boll came here, I'd not be complimentary about his films because his movies suck. And I don't like some of the things he's said about people either. Maybe you and him can be friends. You both share a penis issue. You both got innies. 3.) I remember and interview where they asked Johnny Depp whether the new Willy Wonka movie was a cash grab. Depp simply agreed, and wondered why anyone would think a movie studio would finance a film and not want a good return on their investment. OF COURSE this movie is a cash grab you DOLT....ALL major wide release films are cash grabs. Miami Vice was a cash grab. It's entertainment in exchange for a ticket price. And Rocky Balboa is a GREAT piece of entertainment, hence why so many people are paying the ticket price. 4.) Sly disrespects a film crew when he says a movie wasn't that good? How do you think that?? I'm sure the crew worked hard on Uwe Boll's movies. That means I cant say the end product sucked without insulting them? You make no sense.
Hey gang! Don't forget about Frank. by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 02:23:16 PM
www.frankstallone.com "Take you Back"
Remember Frank in "Staying Alive"? by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 02:31:24 PM
TRAVOLTA: to (Cynthia Rhodes)as she walks toward Frank. Are you going to be okay? FRANK STALLONE: Hey, what are you Allstate pal? TRAVOLTA: Yeah, you want disability? Classic!
RE: Wow by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 02:41:02 PM
Go make a movie! : - ) Don't forget to hire a production manager, things can get real harry. If you don't have a budget for a PM then I'm afraid you'll have to do that part too. If you run into any problems, get to the extraction point marked on your map.
I must break you by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 02:41:49 PM
Lighten up man... we're celebrating the final rocky. Can't we do that?
RE: Thunderballz by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 02:52:48 PM
Thunderballz....... A covert operation is being geared up in the far east. Your user name was dug out of the computer as the only one most able to screw up the mission....... You interested?...... Why you?....... The insane asylum you escape from in 71 is the target area. Nobody knows that place better than you?......If the mission's successful they'll be a presidential pardon for you. Bush will send you immediately to Iraq. Thunderballz. I'm sorry to have sent you such a hell hole but you brought it on yourself. I did everything I could to keep Yackbacker and Sexy away from you.....cue Jerry Goldsmith theme.
Thunderballz IS AK-Phoney 7 by Kal El Vis	Dec 27th, 2006 03:23:19 PM
Come on, 2 brain-dead twats using the term "starfucker" when referring to the well-deserved "love" for Rocky Balboa? I think not. Just a sad, desperate one-man "war" on a film he was too stupid to "get".
Link to all of Stallone's Q&As by pilotgrl	Dec 27th, 2006 03:26:51 PM
Is this available anywhere? I'd like to share these with a couple of friends but only #20 remains on the main page.
Re: Kal El Vis by streakerfreak1983	Dec 27th, 2006 03:29:17 PM
I was thinking the same thing. Notice how Ak-47 hardly shows up anymore
I mean sometimes he shows up by streakerfreak1983	Dec 27th, 2006 03:34:35 PM
but not as much as the first couple of Sly Q&A's.
streakerfreak1983 by Kal El Vis	Dec 27th, 2006 04:22:48 PM
Exactly. He's a douchebag, plain and simple. He's like the "Singertologists" with Singerman Peeps. Irrational, below-level IQ, and CONVINCED they are "right" and EVERYONE ELSE is "wrong".
all I gotta say is... by jarodvhale	Dec 27th, 2006 05:05:09 PM
the movie rocked....it was a great piece of filmmaking that shows how much movies suck today...I saw the original Rocky on TV on Sat and just went with a buddy of mine tonight who is also a Rocky fan to see it....the movie was great from start to end....this was a bookend...end of discussion..I kept saying wow throughout the whole movie and clapped probably a dozen times....I was worried about Adrian dying...then realized, as Sly said...it was necessary...that scene when they are in the meat locker and Sly shows his true pain about Adrian's loss...wow...the parts that I thought were slow were necessary...why was he getting a dog...oh yeah..for the training partner..like he did before...why did he do that huge ass speech to his son..cause he practices what he preaches ands that's what got him through the fight..like mickey in Rocky III....why was little marie in the movie...cause we seemed to have forgotten how simple and kind Rocky is...at the end of the day ...these movies weren't fight movies..they are love movies around fighting...rocky and adrian..rocky and mickey...rocky and Paulie, rocky and clubber, rocky and philly...and finally rocky and his son...if sly is truly reading these talkbacks..then thank you and congrats...you truly shaped our culture...and as Moriarty said..you are an icon.
pilotgrl... by idahomer	Dec 27th, 2006 05:07:07 PM
Here is link to #8, which links to #1-7. http://www.aintitcool.com/node /30919?semperex-search. After that just go to the search and put in "round #9, #10, etc. (trying to get a line break.)
opps it links to #7 by idahomer	Dec 27th, 2006 05:10:26 PM
But you get the idea, I'm sure. cool, line breaks.
ugh, fed a troll by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 05:51:55 PM
Anyway, Sly I wish you all the best. You're 60 heavy years in and are in better shape than me, so woooooooooooooooooow I've got to do whatever you're doing, honestly. This is my last comment before I get too sucked into all this. I need to keep my head above water. Love ya, thanks for the christmas present. ;)
My Hubby wants you to open Adrian's restaurant. by jdlegall	Dec 27th, 2006 06:22:12 PM
Hi Sly, My hubby has watched Rocky Balboa about 10-12 times already and thinks it would be a great idea for you to open Adrian's restaurant. I can definately confirm to you that he'd be a regular. PS I watched Rocky Balboa with him twice and rank it as #1 out of all the Rocky's. It's just like the original and has a great message for all ages. Never give up! Jodi
Rocky Convention by jdlegall	Dec 27th, 2006 06:26:35 PM
Hello again, Ive been asked to bring it to your attention that there is no Rocky convention. Star Trek has one, Star Wars but no Rocky. He's eagerly waiting to go to one, complete with his Rocky outfit. LOL Jodi
RE: Rocky Convention by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 06:35:46 PM
Jodi. Have your hubby scroll through the top of the forum. Look for the STALLONE VIDEO CHALLENGE.
RE: Goldsmith and Crenna by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 07:55:20 PM
Oh yes, I think Richard Crenna and Jerry Goldsmith will totally be missed. Nobody can ever fill Trautman's shoes. Trautman could eat things that would make a billy goat puke! Goldsmith. People just don't know how awesome he was. Rambo 2 is one of my favorite scores of all time with precedence on HOME FLIGHT. Absolutely phenomenal. "Under Fire" with Nick Nolte was also a very good soundtrack. Also fond of John Ottman, especially since he went to the same Jr. high school as I did here in San Jose. Yee-haw!
Mr. Stallone, Congratulations! by super Cucaracha	Dec 27th, 2006 08:18:36 PM
On a great piece of work which is Rocky Balboa. Like a fellow Talkbacker said " damm you " because you also made me cry while watching your movie. My 9 year old daughter (Kitxia) loved it. I'll be seeing it again with my buddies this weekend. Keep up the good work... we have your back sir! And thank you for personally addressing some of us Talkbackers!
NEED UPDATE on Clubber Lang & Drago by Drunken Busboy	Dec 27th, 2006 08:28:02 PM
Hey Sly! Not sure if you are still reading the Talkbacks or not now that ROCKY BALBOA is out and you don't really need to promote it anymore but I have a couple of things that I need to know and get off my chest. In ROCKY BALBOA you give the audience updates on what has become of such things as Marie, Spider Rico, The Pet Shop, The ICe Rink, Duke, Paulie and hell we even see Rocky's 2 turtles Cuff & Link! It was awesome for us big Rocky fans to see what has become of all of these important pieces. So when I read the rumor that Mr. T was going make a cameo as Clubber Lang as an Announcer I was pumped. Because I always wondered what would have happened to a guy like Clubber after being a charasmatic champion losing to Rocky. But alas no Mr. T in the movie besides the standard archive footage for 3 secs. Ok Sly! Since you are GOD to Rocky's universe and you are not going to make another Rocky, I think you owe it to us fans as to what happened to both Clubber Lang & Ivan Drago. I would think Ivan's life would have taken an interesting turn after the fall of the Soviet way of life. PLEASE!! PLEASE!! PLEASE!! PLEASE!! PLEASE!! PLEASE!! What happened to the two boxers in the Rocky universe. If you don't feel that you owe it to us fans as to their fate then I think you at least owe it to these two characters for their own closure. So what's the scoop did Clubber die like Sonny Liston? Or did he find God and start his own ministry? Did Ivan become an Olympic boxing coach? Did he become Barry Bonds personal trainer because of his "Connections"? Come on Sly!! Throw us a bone!! Your Pal & Clubber & Ivan advocate! Tim Ryan Lisbon, Maine www.TimmyTIme.Org (Yes! I am a Proud Lisbian!) P.S. Please sign my guestbook!!
I was wondering......... by misterWINKIE	Dec 27th, 2006 08:32:59 PM
if Sly reads the TalkBacks...How long before he posts "FIRST!!!" ????????
I'm back. "It ain't over 'til it's over" by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 09:33:30 PM
Stallone I'm going to tell it too you straight. You're movie is getting pounded unfairly by dick heads online even to the point of putting the movie up on these youtube things. What ever happened to paying money to watch these movies? Now I understand completely why you're keeping touch with internet nerds. They're evil little viruses that can fuck up everything. I don't blame you if you don't like some of us. I'm no angel myself, but I recognize what your movies are about. It's our duty to fight for what's right and that's seeing the damn movie at the movie theater. All you kids downloading it should be ashamed of yourselves. Yes, it's wrong and yes put yourself in stallone's position to see why. You deserve the money, Stallone. Seriously can the internet stop being a bunch of shitheads for one goddam second and do what's right? Come on guys. I feel just like rocky in the first movie. Everyone's just going to give me the finger and say "screw you" right?
Re: Trautman by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 09:46:02 PM
That's not Trautman's fault. The writer wrote it that way. LOL...
The box office is so weird. by CherryValance	Dec 27th, 2006 10:09:41 PM
Lookit: http://tinyurl.com/y9u5k3 Rocky, Happyness, & Shepherd mostly stayed the same but Charlotte and Museum went up. I expected everything to go down. But I guess Christmas just screwed everything up. Too weird.
RE: Box office by Flanagan	Dec 27th, 2006 10:25:21 PM
This is great news guys, yes. I'll probably go again this next week too. Stallone is going to pull a Eastwood as a director. Just wait!
yes, Bringingsexyback by Pipple	Dec 27th, 2006 10:48:03 PM
I can imagine sly anticipated this... I'll see it again. What a world...
Rocky Balboa deserves awards by OperaAmyB	Dec 28th, 2006 12:38:39 AM
As a kid my dad was a projectionist, and when Rocky III came out I saw it 14 times in the movie theater when I would hang out with my dad at work. I was 9. Now, at 2 weeks shy of 33 I still have a crush on Rocky (and Sly) like I did when I was a kid. I loved Rocky Balboa and feel that both Sly and Burt Young deserve some recognition. Sly should feel very proud of this film, as it truly could stand on it's own. Rocky V needed to happen so that his own personal growth could bring him to writing Rocky Balboa with the depth it needed and deserved. My words do not do my feelings justice. Thank you, Harry, for the great site, and thank you, Sly, for all of the time you gave to your fans. Blessings to you and your family.
Best Actor and Best Screenplay? by MattmanReturns	Dec 28th, 2006 01:35:19 AM
The scene where Rocky tells his son what's what was an amazing blend of powerful dialogue and excellent acting on Sly's part. This was one of the single best scenes I've seen in a movie this year.
SLY, QUICK QUESTION (PLEASE!) by BillyRosewood	Dec 28th, 2006 02:19:32 AM
SLY, ONE QUICK QUESTION : I LOVE "CLIFFHANGER". I SAW IT THE WEEK AFTER MY GRANDFATHER DIED, AND FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS, IT TOOK MY MIND OFF MY GRIEF. PLEASE MAKE A SEQUEL! ANY CHANCE??
--WHERE I WAS DURING EACH ROCKY MOVIE RELEASE-- by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 28th, 2006 03:41:12 AM
You don't care, but it shall be posted regardless. I was thinking what I was doing throughout the Rocky series releases. Rocky (1976) - Not born yet. Eventually saw via VHS tape. Rocky II (1979) - In my mommy's tummy, but haven't come out yet. :) Eventually saw via VHS tape. Rocky III (1982) - 2 years old, grandma taking care of me while both parents worked. When I got older, this would eventually be the first Rocky movie I see, via my cousin who rented the VHS tape. Rocky IV (1985)- In first grade. Would eventually see with my cousin again, and this one would be my absolute favorite one throughout my childhood. I wouldn't see Rocky I or Rocky II until much later, near my teens. Rocky V (1990) - Watched Home Alone first instead (sorry!). Actually, I watched Home Alone twice before I'd see this. I just started the 6th grade. Eventually I would rent it and watch it again at home, and I remember getting excited and punching at the air during the final fight. I remember being bored for most of the movie, though. Rocky Balboa - Spent a few weeks trying to get through to Sly on the net, who was posting here. :) Finishing up grad school semester, continuing my 4.0 GPA, writing my project report for class while posting here, and woke up early opening say to see the morning show. My favorite Rocky movie that I saw in theaters!
Re: boxoffice by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 28th, 2006 03:53:56 AM
As of Tuesday Rocky Balboa has over $31 million. It just may have $40 before this weekend even arrives! How much was spent on promotions? Usually it's about $20 million right? If so, Rock Balboa could break even before this weekend even arrives! Starting this weekend it's all money in the bank!!
$31,197,000 RB 7 Day BO totals by Mace Tofu	Dec 28th, 2006 04:17:20 AM
I was hoping it would do $30 Mil for the week and they beat that! Not Bad at all.
SNL Stallone Orange Julius skit needs to be found :( by Savio	Dec 28th, 2006 04:44:43 AM
The Stallone working in an Orange Julius is one of my favorite skits ever, does anyone have it and would be willing to youtube it or know where I can find it? Thanks!
Box-office USA by Security23	Dec 28th, 2006 05:02:41 AM
I was reading that total costs of the movie-'Rocky Balboa' were 24 mln dollars.That means that Stallone is 'on grean' and has 7 mln extra till today...GREAT job!!!And it is just beginning...I hope before this weekeng it is gonna be 40 mln and let's wait when it will arrive to UK...I am watching all the time how its doing in box office (mojo box office is the best source)Sly-I hope You will be in London premiere... P.S.BringingSexyBack-thank You very much my friend...I would love Sly to see this post as well...all the best Sly -we love You-You are THE BEST!!!
SLY STALLONE GOTTA EAT by Pound Sand	Dec 28th, 2006 06:38:29 AM
So go see Rocky Balboa, already.
Idahome by pilotgrl	Dec 28th, 2006 08:02:06 AM
Thanks for the tips on finding the Q&As - I've got 'am all now. Cheers!
The first Rocky film goes into the National Registry by Greg7007	Dec 28th, 2006 08:28:14 AM
I'm unsure what the significance of it is, or if most AICN website readers would care less, but the first Rocky film has been entered into the US Library of Congress's National Film Registry. I assumed it was already in it.
I care by streakerfreak1983	Dec 28th, 2006 09:32:08 AM
It is a great thing that someone out there is making sure great films will survive forever. Everyone on AICN should care. It is a huge honor that the Library of Congress feels your film is one of the few that are so important that it should be perserved in it archives.
Comment for Sly - a good one : ) by andrea121	Dec 28th, 2006 09:36:04 AM
Sly - I've adored you since the birth of Rocky, and I still do! I have seen Rocky VI and it is amazing. What I love about Sylvester Stallone is that he is an intelligent, compassionate family man who makes (writes, directs, acts, etc.) fantastic movies. That is so rare in these days and times. You are a true gentlemen, Sly. And you are still the most handsome guy in Hollywood even after all these years! Way to go, Sly. Never stop writing, acting, etc. Your stories are timeless.
hmm I think I get it by Pipple	Dec 28th, 2006 09:47:40 AM
Rocky = dog Paulie = flee Why did it take me so long to notice this?
Ha, told you I misspelled stuff on here all the time by Pipple	Dec 28th, 2006 09:51:20 AM
It's Flea. woopz
Yo, Sly! by Zarles	Dec 28th, 2006 12:26:33 PM
Not sure if you're still reading this, but I finally got to see your flick, and I LOVED it. Felt exactly like an old-school Rocky flick. EXACTLY. I couldn't have asked for more. The best line had to be "Yeah, that's more like the '70s." Brilliant. The Burgess flashback hit me harder than Rocko's left hand, too. Just wanted to share the love, my friend. An exceptional farewell to an exceptional series from an exceptional man. Well done. :)
IMDB says Rocky Balboa REVIVES MGM! by jack-torrance	Dec 28th, 2006 02:16:37 PM
Go Sly! I just read this on IMDB: 'Rocky''s Comeback Revives MGM' MGM will not only make money in theaters from its release of Rocky Balboa, the sixth Rocky film, but it also stands to make big bucks from the older Rocky movies, the London Financial Times observed today (Thursday). "We own the first five movies and have set DVD catalogue promotions around the world to coincide with the release of Rocky Balboa," Rick Sands, chief operating officer of MGM, told the FT. Sands said that a promotional Rocky DVD pack being offered by Wal-Mart is "selling very big numbers." Sands also observed that the studio has relicensed TV rights so that the older films can be rebroadcast around the time of the current movie release."
Oh yeah by CherryValance	Dec 28th, 2006 03:38:38 PM
last week sometime, I haven't checked lately, there is a section on Netflix that tells you what the people in your area are renting most and it was Rocky where I live. I mean out of everything Netflix has that's pretty impressive.
thematic break down of all rocky films by Pipple	Dec 28th, 2006 04:33:05 PM
Rocky 1 - I just want to go the distance. Rocky 2 - Win. Rocky 3 - I'm afraid. Rocky 4 - To beat me he's going to have to kill me. Rocky 5 - Knock this bum out, he took my room! Rocky Balboa - It ain't about how hard you hit, but about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. That's how I view it.
Rocky VI "defying all odds" $55 million by 1/1/07 by DARTH VOODOO	Dec 28th, 2006 06:59:09 PM
According to boxofficeguru.com Rocky Balboa is "defying all odds" and "should see it's gross at $55 million by 1/1/07. It seems the great word of mouth is helping this film. Another solid weekend + 100 million dollars is very possible. This is great news. Go Rocky!!!
DAMN! by Remnant88	Dec 28th, 2006 07:54:33 PM
Saw Rocky Balboa last night. Fanastic movie. Congratulations Sly...that's one experience I won't forget anytime soon. All the best to you.
Saw Rocky Balboa last night: LOVED IT!! by JimmyLoneWolf	Dec 28th, 2006 08:25:13 PM
What can I say, you made a wonderful movie Sly! I couldn't think of a better and more touching way to say goodbye to this character. Your heart and soul were up there on the screen and my friends and I loved every minute. Thanks so much for giving us a "feel-good" movie that wasn't phony and manipulative. In every frame of the movie and in every line of your pitch-perfect performance, I sensed that you truly love this character. And you know what? I truly loved your movie. Bravo Mr. Stallone!
Sly,please offer some signed Rocky merchandise to AICN by Luci888	Dec 28th, 2006 09:03:14 PM
Mr. Stallone, could you please offer to AICN, some signed Rocky Balboa merchandise (as in a signed Rocky DVD, signed poster, etc) in a new contest AICN can run (but for both North American and overseas readers). The difference this time, is let Mr. Stallone come up with the contest question (like write in under 70 words, 'what does the Rocky Balboa character mean to you?', or 'what's your favorite Rocky film and why?') and Quint can judge it and pick the 5 best submitted answers.
I really think we should pick ONE day to see it again. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 28th, 2006 09:38:05 PM
I suggested New Year's day since everyone is off, but it doesn't have to be then. I just think it would be cool to see the power of AICN- let's pick a day and tell everyone we can to see it too. Let's see what happens. I bet there's a significant spike in the Box Office.
Luci88, as long as we're bringing up contests.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 28th, 2006 09:42:00 PM
we could merge it with my idea where everyone sees it on one day. Your entry into the contest is a picture of your ticket stub, or something like that. I know it's easy to photo shop these things but maybe someone with more knowledge can expand on my idea. That way, everyone wins- we see the movie again, have incentive to see it on a particular day, and Mr. Stallone gets a bigger return. And if it REALLY goes well, the spike in the box office will get headlines, promoting the movie even further.
ROCKY by dregmobile	Dec 28th, 2006 11:08:36 PM
I still have to wait until February 1 to see this. But the other day I rented out the first film in the saga, and I think it was about the second time I had viewed it. I've never been a big ROCKY fan, but when I was old enough, I made sure I visited the cinema to see IV and V. And Rambo III (I actually counted, and I have seen a total of 16 Sylvestor Stallone movies at the flicks). But anyway, after these great set of Q&A's, I really got a lot out of watching ROCKY again. And I feel I've got to thank Mr. Stallone for coming here and being so kind and giving to all of us, because if he didn't, I wouldn't have seen into this first ROCKY film as much as I have. The music, for example, blew me away. How amazing was this soundtrack? I have half the album downloaded to my iPod now! I never noticed the similarities to Christ's crufixion in the final fight/scene in the movie until now (obvious when you consider the film's opening shot, thanks for pointing that out, Mr. Stallone). Most importantly, watching this film was a giant slap in the face for me to get up, get fit, and get motivated. The energy this film conveys, or conveyed to me anway, was amazing. Again - thanks, Sly! And I hope to read your stories here more often. P.S. - I notice the numbers are looking great over the holidays. ROCKY BALBOA is the highest grossing guy-flick in the top ten at the moment. I was originally hoping for a total north of $50M for this film - now it is obvious it should sail into the $70M's, and hopefully even further! For now, I'll be looking to rent ROCKY II ...
I don't think this happens very often.... by OperaAmyB	Dec 29th, 2006 01:12:15 AM
I've noticed that the same movie theater I saw the movie at this past Friday has increased from 4 showings to 6 showings per day for the coming week. WOW! Rock on, Rocky! This is absolutely deserved. Mr. Stallone, this movie is truly your finest. I look forward to seeing more of your artistic work in the future. Congrats!
I am so jealous by DirkD13"	Dec 29th, 2006 02:47:50 AM
Of everyone who has seen this film. I'm starting to get worried that it won't live up to my expectations as they're currently going through the roof.
ok...here is my story by armtv	Dec 29th, 2006 03:22:17 AM
I have been soo pumped over RB. I saw a free screening before it came out so I had to go back christmas weekend and drop some duckets on ROCKY Balboa. I asked my wife to get me Antology Rocky SEt for Christmas which I did. and over the last couple of days I have been having a Rocky Marathon. Just starting four now and Five tomorrow. I am bummed about one thing though. I already had Rocky special addition which came with commentary. BUT NONE OF THE anthology have any special treatments..NO MAKINGS OFS OR COMMENTARY. I think that is Bullshit...truthfully. because if they come out eventually with the commentary I am going to go have to spend some more duckets. I am sure this is intended but I don't like it. On a side note, I never noticed until now...but Stallone wrote directed and starred in most of the Rocky movies...after further analyzing after my christmas marathon...I am wondering why hasn't Stallone written or directed any more movies lately...minus RB. Obviously the man has some serious talent. For instance...Rocky 2..did Stallone write the dialogue for Adrian and Creed during the scenes when they were trying to motivate Rocky...if so...that dialogue and the dialoge with his son in RB is amazing and he should be writing many more movies. JMO. Someone mentioned it a few TB's ago but HELLO?? CAn anyone say Clint Eastwood??? His career as a director has eclipsed his acting achievements if you ask me and the same could happen FOR Sylvester STallone....As I sign off...Please Mr. Stallone if you are reading this...knowing that you know who John Brzenk is...It would be awesome if I could tell people that you have been to ARM TV ever. If you have give me a sign...ANY SIGN. have your assistant drop me an email. The ARMWRESTLING world would love it. I am not only a movie geek..but I am an armwrestling fanatic too and we worship OVER THE TOP. Thanks a bunch!!! ARM TV
It's excellent by Pipple	Dec 29th, 2006 03:52:19 AM
keep your expectations through the roof. By itself it's well written and acted, all that but also compared to the junk we've become used to getting from hollywoodland, it's a breath of fresh air. Sadly it's the last because we need more movies like balboa to come make boys into men.
I honestly haven't read a single negative review from.. by Cotton McKnight	Dec 29th, 2006 08:50:53 AM
someone a regular moviegoer who has seen the movie. I think one guy here said he didn't care for it but good luck, and that's it. I really think the movie could push the 100 million dollar mark before it's all said and done. I'm thinking 60 million on the low end. HUGE success.
Thunderballs, you are a retard... by TheTerminator	Dec 29th, 2006 09:49:51 AM
And, I'll tell you why. No one is licking Stallone's balls. No one is a 'star fucker.' Personally, I've always liked Stallone's films. I've been following the development of Rocky VI for years, since the first day I got the internet (back in the late 90's). I've also been following Rambo IV since back then, too. I've been a fan of these two series since I was a kid in the 80's. However, many other people had WRITTEN OFF Stallone because, to be brutally honest, he was a complete joke to them. Rambo III? JOKE. Stop or My Mom will Shoot? JOKE. He had become a has-been. Then, he made Rocky Balboa and the reviews started coming in. As a fan, I knew the film was going to be good because I knew Stallone didn't want to leave us with Rocky V as the final chapter in the series. But, the casual movie goer probably thought Rocky VI was a joke; I even heard stories about audience members laughing at its trailer a couple of months ago as if it were a joke. But, the reviews were positive. It started grabbing the attention of the people who weren't just fans, but people who had written off Stallone and Rocky. Then, Stallone did this Q&A. When people who had written this film off read Stallone's replies and could see the heart and soul he put into this film, THAT made them want to go see it, not because "Stallone was a cool guy." Sure, he sounded like a cool dude and that was just icing on the cake, but the important thing was that he seemed to SINCERELY CARE ABOUT THIS FILM -- and, the film is great. Maybe if you take your head out of your egotistical ass and go watch without whining like a little bitch, you'll see what most of us saw -- a very good final chapter in a long running series of films, especially after a dreadful fifth chapter that almost was the conclusion. So, to conclude this, you are a RETARD because you have absolutely no clue.
Dumbest. Question. For Sly. ~Ever~. by Roj Blake	Dec 29th, 2006 10:30:49 AM
First off…it rocks that Sly has courted and paid attention to the AICN readers/talkbackers. I can dig on Kevin Smith when the time is right (i.e. through his flix), but given the same opportunity, Kev seems to mostly crap on the haters rather than acknowledge the good guys. Through his ongoing words here, Sly’s proven himself a trooper. I’m by no means a ROCKY fan. Haven’t seen the new one and have no desire to do so…regardless, I wish nothing but the best for it. But dude…Sly – you shouldn’t poop on OSCAR and COP LAND was a quiet masterpiece. You are a Hollywood survivor, which is no mean feat. Know this one thing: Upon your eventual passing (which is hopefully in the very distant future), the world will grieve bucketloads of tears, whilst celebrating your contributions. And now for my stupid question…is there any truth to the bazillion-year old rumor that you were once considered for DOCTOR WHO? I cannot fathom the notion. All the above said, I’ll be the first in line for the next RAMBO movie -- that you can take to the bank.
$$$$ BOX OFFICE NEEDS A REVIVAL $$$$ by omega786	Dec 29th, 2006 05:16:46 PM
Yo Sly you need to pick up the pace if you wanna see 60-70 million.
Sly you son of a bitch by Pipple	Dec 29th, 2006 06:46:32 PM
After seeing it again today I have to congradulate you on totally sending the messages in the film over my head the first time. It functions on many levels: A double underdog tale: Mason Dixon, the un-respected champion earning the respect of the public, and Rocky Balboa the old school champ returning to prove he's not dead yet. The angry stuff in the basement? It's Rocky from the first film stuck inside Sylvester Stallone asking for one last round. Robert Jr. = Sylvester Stallone as Rocky tells his son, sly of today, to accept him for what he's become, a legend. Sly does this and rocky is resurrected in the Ring when Mason nearly knocks him out. This is where the movie reminds of the spirit of rocky, fuck sylvester stallone, no offense, but it's obviously grew beyond what sly originally intended so what's fascinating is watching rocky's ghost return in the ring, whatever you want to call it. "God I feel born again." Said Apollo before he got knocked to heaven. This whole scene parallels apollo's return to the ring. Rocky's able to stand where apollo Creed fell... damn. Then when both fighters are evenly matched in the ring the movie basically is over, because that's the idea. Both fighters aren't every going to go down because they're essentially mirror images of each other. The rest of the film functions as a bow for the character itself who has taken on the status of a legend. Wow, you put more thought into this last rocky then you probably needed to, Sly. Thats one level, on the other was your own performance as balboa: Perfect. Fuck this mere talkback stuff. Tell MGM to "get up" and put all the rocky films, even V, into theaters as a celebration of a cultural ICON. Somebody in hollywood make this happen.
Wow, 37 million already? This movie is doing great! by Cotton McKnight	Dec 29th, 2006 07:41:53 PM
The movie just BARELY dipped below 2 million once, and that was Christmas Eve. What a huge success. I am so glad for Mr. Stallone, he deserves it.
Domestic and world wide take by optimus122	Dec 29th, 2006 07:57:59 PM
Domestically it should make about 60 million or so..world wide this will be a 100 million dollar movie which is damn impressive.
Mr. Stallone- just wanted to add one more thing... by Cotton McKnight	Dec 29th, 2006 08:33:29 PM
I just wanted to thank Mr. Stallone for visiting with us because I just realized that I probably would NOT have made it a priority to see this movie otherwise. As I said before, I am one of those people who liked the Rocky movies when I saw them on TV, but I never saw one in the theater (even though I was old enough to see 2-5). When I saw the preview for Rocky Balboa several months ago, it looked interesting but I really don't know if I would have made time to see it in the theater. Then I heard about your involvement with AICN, and I really started getting interested. What I basically want to say is thank you for doing this, because if you hadn't I probably wouldn't have seen it this season and I would have missed one of the most enjoyable experiences I have ever had at the cinema. I can honestly say that I have never seen a crowd interact with a movie like they do for this one- and this is several days after its release! And not only that, but I really feel like we here at AICN are a "part" of this thing, and I am really getting a kick out of watching how well this movie does from day to day. We owe it all to you, Sly. Thanks again.
Damn, I'm late! by JerseyBoss	Dec 29th, 2006 09:14:21 PM
I never got to say hi to Sly. The best I can do is dig out the pic of me and Paulie out in the streets of Philly during the filming of "Rocky V...
Oscar by dregmobile	Dec 30th, 2006 07:46:38 AM
As if it isn't bad enough I'm being branded by my girlfriend for being 'obsessed' with ROCKY since these Q&A's started, we both turn up at a friends house and what DVD do they have waiting for us to watch? Fucking OSCAR! I couldn't believe the coincidence. Mr. Stallone, I suspect you don't regret making the film, since it's pretty good as far as innocent comedies go, but rather, you regret the career move of making OSCAR. Am I right? crickets But anyway, my girlfriend liked ROCKY (who doesn't?), and I will be taking her to BALBOA when it hits Australian shores ...
Best movie of the year! by jawnyblayse	Dec 30th, 2006 01:45:25 PM
I've seen Rocky Balboa twice now (and bought the pre-release action figure!!!) and I loved it even more the second time. The emotional resonance of the movie is amazing. Each time I watched the movie, in two separate theatres, the audience cheered so often it was an electric atmoshphere...Simply put: I love this movie and I'm so happy for Sly.
Rocky gonna make.. by optimus122	Dec 30th, 2006 02:08:16 PM
another 11 million dollars or so this weekend. Some bigshots in the film industry thought it wouldn't make that much in its whole US domestic run lol..what a comeback for the Rocky franchise and a nice way to end it too. If he does the right thing with Rambo people will have to take notice of him again. They already do now , most reviews I read say he did a nice job with the writing/directing/producing etc. That Night at the museum is rolling along , damn movie stinks but kids love it.
Touch me and I'll sue by Pipple	Dec 30th, 2006 02:21:53 PM
Obviously Don King was the inspiration for Washington Duke. In Rocky himself I see Art Carney with some of Jackie Gleason's explosive energy. Sly has to have been a honeymooners fan growing up because when I watch rocky, I see a lot of the same types of images that are in the classic honeymooners show. In fact, this movie was kinda like a honeymooners episode about Ralph dealing with his wife's death. That'd have been incredible to see Gleason portray a Ralph who has to move on from something like that. BANG ZOOM! And don't get bothered by kids today who can't appreciate old school good acting and writing. I remember when I was a kid the reason roger rabbit was so amazing was because most films at the time couldn't have a bunch of animated cartoons running around in them... ;o oh how times change...
Rocky Balboa needs to surpass $61 million.... by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 30th, 2006 05:01:05 PM
...to beat the last Rocky (inflation included).
We watched ROCKY BALBOA by George Edwards	Dec 30th, 2006 10:38:25 PM
We watched ROCKY BALBOA again tonight!!! Your vision for Rocky's final movie has both critical and popular acclaim. Sly, I'm truly amazed how you have made a really personal, heartfelt and exiting film, full of hope. I'm very proud for you - that you have made such a quality movie and have exceeded all expectations. Aside from the movies that were released in the last couple of weeks, some which I've seen are great, others which are just ok and will no doubt make money, ROCKY BALBOA is still my favorite. It's true what you were told: it's better for Rocky's character to collect friends rather than trophies-- and many of Rocky's friends are going to see ROCKY BALBOA in theatres right now! Happy New Year to you Sly, Harry&Crew, and to all the Talkbackers! George Edwards - Creator/Writer/Artist - BattleWorlds - www.battleworlds.com - george@georgeedwardsmedia.com
promotional Rocky DVD pack being offered by Wal-Mart by Mace Tofu	Dec 30th, 2006 10:41:38 PM
Re: promotional Rocky DVD pack being offered by Wal-Mart is "selling very big numbers." .... it should because it's a great deal at $15 bucks for the first 3 Rocky's on DVD at Walmart. It is a good deal for people who are holding out for the 6 DVD set next year. This way you can catch up on the Rocky story before you see RB and own the movies for about the same price as renting them would be plus you can pass them on after you upgrade. I held off on the Rocky 5 pack because of the lack of xtras and it cost $40 more than the Walmart 3 pack. Walmart has the new 2 Disc Rocky SE for $20 and it comes with a RB movie ticket. RB is going to be my wifes and I last movie of the year. RB only needs to make another $7 Million to start turning a profit while NIGHT at the MUSH only needs to make another $107 Million to break even lol. GO ROCKY!
Oh and if you have any USE YOUR MOVIE CASH on ROCKY by Mace Tofu	Dec 30th, 2006 10:48:07 PM
If you have any of those MOVIE CASH tickets that come with DVDs most are good for ANY MOVIE not just the one pictured on the ticket and Most expire on the 31st. Give that free money to Sly!
One more thing ...Sly needs your help by Mace Tofu	Dec 30th, 2006 11:06:51 PM
Yahoo.com news is holding a Poll on WHO IS THE BETTER AGING STAR Stallone or Harrison Ford? So far Sly only has 12% to Ford's 58% ! You can vote more than once so lets get those %'s up for Sly! http://tinyurl.com/439z
Is it agreeable that Rocky Balboa is the most quotable by Pipple	Dec 31st, 2006 02:23:26 AM
film of the year? You really are a good writer, sly. This isn't ass kissing either. This has to be one of the best written films of the year if not the best. That makes me wonder about Rambo. Are you doing the whole thing like Rocky Balboa? I've only seen the first one. And please do it old school style, jumping in trees and shit. No cgi doubles. Thanks sly...;)
Rocky IV is the most quotable of the Rocky movies. by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 31st, 2006 02:32:27 AM
I haven't seen that many movies this year so I don't know if RB is the most quotable of the year....but in terms of series when you ask the average guy to quote Rocky, usually the first thing he'll say is something like "I must break you." As for Rambo, my opinion is that it should be nothing like Rocky Balboa. Rambo is not even close to the personality as Rocky, nor are they in similar situations...nor are Rocky and Rambo movies the same type of movies. It all goes to audience expectations. By Rambo III, the series was full on, all out action. That's what the public will expect when they buy a ticket and sit down to see Rambo IV.
So you think Stallone is still reading? by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 31st, 2006 02:38:58 AM
Or since Rocky Balboa's success is he busy in his room counting his gold? :)
He's pumping iron or writing by Pipple	Dec 31st, 2006 03:11:36 AM
The man's doing some poe scripting or something deep. He's sylvester Stallone, bitch.
Rambo IV will hopefully kick ass by Pipple	Dec 31st, 2006 03:17:02 AM
Yet still be a meaningful story. What stallone said about action films today not really focusing on character the way they used to is totally right. It's become all about cgi this and cgi that and the human element becomes more foggy. That needs to change.
If you see something this weekend other than Rocky... by Cotton McKnight	Dec 31st, 2006 10:52:09 AM
buy a ticket to Rocky and sneak in to the other theater. Sylvester Stallone can't tell you to do this but I can.
RE: Sneaking into the theater...: - ( by Flanagan	Dec 31st, 2006 01:08:46 PM
What if people pay for another film then sneak into Rocky Balboa? Obviously Balboa numbers would be down. That's not good. You know, the good thing about Stallone making these numbers is once again he has gone the distance. As most people have written him off as down for the count, he gets back up and comes out swinging. I'll bet most of the people on this forum couldn't swing like that at 50, much less 60.
48 and change by jawnyblayse	Dec 31st, 2006 01:57:09 PM
Rocky's going to be at about 52 million by January 2. There's no way it won't reach...70 million conservatively. I'd stop worrying about the bo numbers. It's going to turn a huge profit and it's critically acclaimed. Amazing stuff. Thanks for the movie Stallone!!!! Comparison? Made more money than movies like...Cindrella Man (when it's done)...Lady in the Water (which I saw last night...yuck)...Deja Vu (when it's done)...I mean, this is a great accomplishment on all fronts.
I have personally seen people sneak into Rocky Balboa.. by GibsonUSA Returns	Dec 31st, 2006 03:26:20 PM
There is nothing wrong with buying a ticket to Rocky Balboa no matter what movie you are seeing. All the times I saw Rocky Balboa I saw bunches of kids sneak their way in after apparently seeing something else. Therefore, it is deemed okay for us to buy a ticket for Rocky Balboa no matter what movie we see....in order to balance the Force. Also, Rocky Balboa must surpass $65 million for me to be happy. I cannot stand it being beneath Step Up and Fast and Furious 3.
Re: It'll beat that, no problem by abcdefghijklmnop	Dec 31st, 2006 04:29:37 PM
Actually, the $61 million gross just represents Rocky V's domestic total. Worldwide, Rocky V made about $180 million. (Both figures adjusted for inflation.)
7:10 show tonight and I'm taking someone who ... by Mace Tofu	Dec 31st, 2006 06:37:06 PM
has no desire to see RB. $ 20 more for the 2006 BO count!
THE FOUNTAIN needs your help to reach $10 Million by Mace Tofu	Dec 31st, 2006 06:45:44 PM
only $84,000 needed to reach $10 million after 6 weeks at the US Box Office. lol sorry I kicked this movie while it's down but this was the other film that was plugged on this site and it's kind of sad it did so bad... but hey if you make a good movie we fans will support you.
Just got back! Great Flick! My wife was dragged to RB by Mace Tofu	Dec 31st, 2006 11:27:20 PM
My wife tried to get out of going tonight because she really didn't want to see this movie but she was the first person in the theater to shout out "YEAH" with her fist out after your speech to your son Sly. My wife was very impressed with your writing skills and loved the movie. To all of the AICN crew and talkbackers and the cast and crew of ROCKY BALBOA have a Happy New Years from a fellow filmmaker. Peace!
Hey, thanks for the report, Mace! by Cotton McKnight	Jan 1st, 2007 01:06:01 AM
I was wondering what she thought tonight. I'm going to see it tomorrow, as I have said before. Great way to start off 2007. Happy new year to you too!
Happy New Year SLY !!! by Security23	Jan 1st, 2007 01:30:14 AM
I just want to wish all the best and Happy New Year for SYLVESTER STALLONE.A lot of Oscars for ''Rocky Balboa'' -best wishes Sly-You are the best. Happy New Year for Harry and all talkbackers as well.By the way-''Rocky Balboa'' till yesterday (Sunday) has got $48.8 mln so its double of total budget.Congratulations Sly-This movie is FANTASTIC!!! P.S. Yo Sly-You did it! P.S. Thank You very veru much Sly for being with us and for this new movie (RB) Just want You to know I am - I was - and I always will be with You...
New Year's Eve mid day show.... by ZaphodBeeblerox	Jan 1st, 2007 08:13:04 AM
Schedules finally permitted on New Year's eve for me to get out to see the movie. I took my wife, my son and my daughter for her 20th birthday along with my ex's 8 year old daughter. While the theater wasn't exactly packed, there was a decent sized crowd for a movie that has been out for about a week and a half now and you dont see too much advertising for. To me that means that there is a fairly steady word of mouth going on behind the scenes for this flick. The movie itself was more then I thought it would be. Not since the first Rocky film has Rocky's opponent been his life in general and that is what makes the character both more vulnerable and more achingly human then in any of the other sequels. We have all had life beat us down and hold us there at one time or another. Rocky Balboa works on so many levels that it really should be ranked as one of the better films of the year. It's a character study of how people love, lose, desire and persevere all with dignity. Without Adrian in the flesh anymore Rocky is like a living shell with no soul left. We see him going through the mundane day to day life of any blue collar person out there, but that fire and desire in his eyes are dimmed, if not out entirely. It's obvious that a part of him died when Adrian died and even though 4 years have passed, it's something that leaves Rocky with an emptiness that he tries to fill by visiting her grave often, running her namesake restaurant and even making yearly pilgrimages to the sites of their courtship. Someone very special to me once said, "Just because we stop living doesnt mean that the love stops. We have the capacity to love someone new without diminishing that first love." Rocky hasn't allowed himself to recognize that fact yet. This is a man who goes through his days reaching out to help others, while not allowing anyone else in to help share his grief and pain. While any Rocky film would be anti-climactic without a boxing match of some type, thats not what makes this movie worth watching as in the previous films. This is a movie about about dignity and self respect. Things that Rocky imparts to his son(In one of the most heart wrenching exchanges in recent movies). It's a movie about surviving loss and living life again on your own terms. It's about embracing the past and honoring it, but being able to let it go as well to allow us to move forward as well. It's a movie about themes that speak to the heart and soul of each and every one of us at one time or another. I found myself getting choked up to the point of tears at least 4 different times. For Sly having written, directed and of course being in front of the camera as well.... this is about as perfect a film as anyone could want. I would honestly rank this movie as my favorite of the entire series for the emotional ride it takes us on. Do you need to watch all of the previous films in order to enjoy this movie? I dont think you have to...but it certainly makes the characters and the story so much richer if you are familiar with everything. I did watch the first movie on dvd again last week to get ready for this movie and just as everyone else here has said, its a perfect bookend to that movie. The feel, the look and even the characters...THIS is where Rocky is from and where he is most comfortable in his own skin. Even though you most likely are no longer reading these talkbacks Sly, thank you for this great gift. This is the proper send off to one of the more beloved film characters of the last 30 years, if not in all of cinema and its done with love, dignity and nobility. All traits shared with the Italian Stallion himself. Well done my friend...well done indeed.
Hey, Sly! If you're still reading talkbacks.... by Warm Soft Lie	Jan 1st, 2007 10:43:38 AM
Congrats on the success of the film so far, but here's a question for you.... In the first Rocky, the original Marie was played by Jodi Letizia(who reprised her role as Marie in Rocky V as a prostitiute but didn't make the final edit). Nothing against Geraldine's performance, but was any consideration given to bringing Jodi back for RB since no one saw her scenes in Rocky V? I think it would have helped the film's verisimilitude even more if she had returned. Just a thought....Thanks, Sly! Keep punchin'!
On the verge of passing $50m! by jack-torrance	Jan 1st, 2007 10:55:14 AM
Rocky Balboa has surpassed the domestic gross of Rocky V, which made just $40m. On Sunday, it stood at $48m. For a fifth sequel and one that only cost $24m, it's a fantastic success! Hopefully the good reviews and strong word of mouth will eventually take it to $100m! And that's not even including worldwide gross and DVD!
Rocky Balboa > The Fountain by dregmobile	Jan 1st, 2007 02:35:38 PM
Hahahahaha. Sly would drop in if he wasn't continually mobbed at internet cafe's, lol. Seriously, though - with the film doing so well, he is no doubt busy with a fair few offers being thrown his way (a.k.a. scripts, and is therefore busy reading those). If he says he reads the talkback here, then he probably reads the talkback here, even if he gets to it a bit late. And I'm so happy RB has passed $50M today (Monday). Congratulations, Sly!
ROCKY BALBOA ROX MY SOX!!!! by mrs.stallone	Jan 1st, 2007 03:32:00 PM
I just wanna say RB is SOOOOOO AWESOME!!!!! I've seen it 10 times already and i've taken eveyone in my family to see it!! It's the best movie in the whole wide world!!!!!!!!! All hail mighty sly and his awesome awesome movie power!!!!!! P.S. Remember when you came 2 dallas? I was the girl u took a pic with and my dad couldn't make out the words!! YOU ROCK!!!!! ;)
$70-$75million is prob a conservative final gross est. by GibsonUSA Returns	Jan 1st, 2007 04:08:58 PM
Which would place Rocky Balboa above Miami Vice and beneath Nacho Libre. I hope RB makes $83 million though, so it can top that foolish Pink Panther movie.
Crack is Wack ! ROCKY and The FOUNTAIN are both about by Mace Tofu	Jan 1st, 2007 05:30:03 PM
Are both movies about MEN who love their wives too much and how that effects their lives. Rocky worked out his problems in a better way. So while I love trippy movies like FANTASTIC PLANET & ERASERHEAD & 2001 the Fountain has to go into the WHAT DREAMS MAY COME pile of .......... movie making. Not bad films but not films I go back to. My wife was still talking about Rocky Balboa hours after we saw it.
Great Movie Slyvester! by redonthehead	Jan 1st, 2007 07:38:27 PM
I saw Rocky Balboa today. I could go see it again. Mr. Stallone, you did a great job..as usual. Would love to catch some facts on what all you had to do to get ready for this part. Like training, weight gain, etc. I didn't realize you turned 60 in July. I'm also a Cancer, 3rd of July. I'm 50 and hope I am still going strong at 60 like you are, for a woman! So proud of you in this role and the way you wrote this movie. Like the dealings w/ your son, loss of your wife, keeping actors in from previous movies, going back up the steps. I could go on and on. I have several siblings and one of my brothers, who is 39 now, is SO influenced by you, has been since the first Rocky. He started boxing long ago, did some amateur competitions, and still gets up every morning at 5 or so and hits is bag for 30 to 45 min, along w/ some other stuff, to stay in shape. He could probably recite word for word all of your previous Rocky movies. Congrats to you. Good luck in all you do. Bless you and your family! Am looking forward to seeing you in more movies to come. And, I just have to say this, you STILL look sexy and fantastic! Especially without a shirt on!
You have all forgotten one small thing.... by Retrosurfer	Jan 2nd, 2007 03:12:04 AM
Hey Guys, Dont forget the "REST OF THE WORLD"!!!!! We have to wait until February so I am looking way beyond 100m. The foreign devils are bigger Stallone fans anyway. Watch what we do ;-)
Sylvester Stallone forgot about us! by Cotton McKnight	Jan 2nd, 2007 08:58:45 AM
Don't leave us! Just kidding. Happy new year.
How can you not... by porterdsgn	Jan 2nd, 2007 11:26:54 AM
...think Sly is the coolest effin guy in THE WORLD?!
Yep, it's doing adult movie money by antonphd	Jan 2nd, 2007 12:08:01 PM
I like watching how Rocky Balboa box office is following the path of the strong adult movie. Considering it was made for $24m is already a hit. Interesting how even 5 years ago this would still have been considered a failure for a box office monster like Stallone. It's nice to see that after a few years break from the spotlight Sly can come back and just make great films instead of competing with his own box office.
Word of Mouth by ditkaman	Jan 2nd, 2007 01:05:10 PM
I have now sent 4 people from my office to this film. All of them loved it as I told them they would. Stallone has really sent Rocky out the right way, this movie is just amazing and seems to resonate with such a large group of people. Seeing Rocky the way we see him when the film opens could have been ugly, no one could have wanted to witness that, but instead it's just touching and inspirational. Hats off Sly and thanks for the memories.
Ex-Philly Guy says THANKS! by mastidon	Jan 3rd, 2007 02:53:17 AM
Hi Sly, I grew up in Philly but now live in Germany. The movie won't open here until February but I wasd able to see it on the US military base last night. Thank you for reminding me what home is like and why the city of brotherly love is so great. The credits brought a big smile to my face. Thanks a million!
Stallone saved my life by klsandiego	Jan 4th, 2007 06:33:40 PM
I have been a Rocky fan since Part II, and during a troubled childhood, your movies were the one thing that gave me inspiration and belief that there were good people in the world who exhibited both strength and kindness. Rocky taught me about physical fitness, self-respect, and about being morally true and that showing compassion towards others did not mean you were weak. Your new movie is wonderful. Like other critics, I believe it plays a lot like a elegy. The "Adrian tour" that Rocky goes on with Paulie in tow, coupled with the soft piano version of the "Gonna Fly Now" were more moving than I would have expected. My girlfriend cried, and I sat there with real emotion running through my veins. I really enjoyed Mason Dixon's manager giving him the "Baptism by fire" speech. I competed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for many years with a strong team with a great coach, and know the benefits of pushing through pain even though every fiber of your body screams for you to quit and you begin to rationalize quitting in your own mind. When your brother's "Take It Back" song kicked in with the old Philly subway rolling, I totally marked out and almost cheered aloud! Also, the way Rocky sort of faded away after waving goodbye to Adrian for the last time was extremely moving to me. I know it was Rocky's final farewell to his fans too, and that was what was moving. It's definitely hard letting go of someone, even a fictional character, who affected you and moved your heart. But my favorite scene was the short, bittersweet shot of Rocky standing on top of the steps hands-on-hips (was it early morning or early evening?) that slowly faded into a darkness that was like nighttime in the city that Rocky calls home. Bravo Sly! My only complaints are: 1) The finale to the fight was a little drawn out and over-the-top. I would have much rather seen Rocky keep getting knocked down and getting back up right until the bell run. 2) Rocky V, lol. Just kidding, I actually liked it up until the street fight scene,and even then I liked when it cut to Mickey yelling. BTW why the animosity towards Carl Weathers?
By the way... by klsandiego	Jan 4th, 2007 07:01:24 PM
I don't think that you wrote Howard Lederman any lines. I think you just had him show up and say all the f*&!ed up things he usually likes to about fighters, lol. Did Mike Tyson think this was a real event? Haha
still pretty sweet he did this... by just pillow talk	Jun 26th, 2007 02:07:01 PM
No Orcus, you have been to older TB's...A mere 4,000 more to go, yes?
sleep is overrated anyway by just pillow talk	Mar 11th, 2008 09:09:40 AM
right?

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