First, you need to leave Rocky 2-6 completely out of the equation, they were made to be big budget blockbusters, no art in sight.
The first Rocky was a completely different movie. In tone and spirit, it resembles an indie film. It was a story about an underdog that was written by struggling actor and made for less than 1 million dollars. It was shot on location in Philadelphia. It also pioneered the used of the stedi-cam which is standard equipment today.
Also, unlike the subsequent movies, Rocky *loses the fight* and we are left with the final image of these two people who most others would consider losers, plane Jane Adrian and practically punch drunk Rocky,embracing each other in other ring. While the movie has become a cliche today, it was and still is a highly respected film.
When film critics compile lists of the best or most important films, the original Rocky is usually in the top 50 if not top 25 or 20.
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The first Rocky was a completely different movie. In tone and spirit, it resembles an indie film. It was a story about an underdog that was written by struggling actor and made for less than 1 million dollars. It was shot on location in Philadelphia. It also pioneered the used of the stedi-cam which is standard equipment today.
Also, unlike the subsequent movies, Rocky *loses the fight* and we are left with the final image of these two people who most others would consider losers, plane Jane Adrian and practically punch drunk Rocky,embracing each other in other ring. While the movie has become a cliche today, it was and still is a highly respected film.
When film critics compile lists of the best or most important films, the original Rocky is usually in the top 50 if not top 25 or 20.