Jacob Smith- Mustangs Ahead        

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL)- Why has “Rocky” Balboa endured across America, and LRHS?

Since the first movie, in 1976, the franchise has left behind a historic mark on the film industry, and our culture as well.

“Rocky” was written by Sylvester Stallone, who starred as a down-and-out local club fighter who is given a shot against the heavyweight champion of the world.  After winning the Academy Award for Best Picture (Stallone was nominated best actor and for best screenplay), the film spawned five sequels, culminating in 2006 with “Rocky Balboa.”

Now, the banner has been passed down to the newest addition in the franchise, “Creed.”  Released in 2015, “Creed” picked up the “Rocky” legacy as Michael B. Jordan played the son of Balboa’s former rival, who hired Stallone’s character as a trainer.  “Creed III” is in theaters now.

Why is this timeline so enduring?

The story surrounds the poor, cheap boxer who rises out of the gutters thanks to his determination and desire to win makes him a boxing legend. No matter how hard he fell, he still got up and fought on.

Who wouldn’t love a movie (or nine movies) like that?

According to Hollywood Insider writer Ben Ross, “Despite the incredible success and blockbuster power that the series has, It’s easy to see why it’s so popular: A down-on-his-luck boxer uses grit and determination to rise out of the working class and become a boxing legend.”

“The ‘Rocky’ franchise is one that has stood the test of time, and done so magnificently. The first ‘Rocky’ came out all the way back in 1975, and 45 years later, we’ve had five sequels, a spinoff movie series, and even a musical,” Ross added.

Stay updated on important LRHS news and share what you like by following our Twitter @MustangsAhead, Instagram @mustangs_ahead, TikTok @mustangsahead and follow the Mustangs Ahead Podcast   

Directed by John G. Avildsen, the original movie was expected to be below average, but now surpasses 47 years of fame. That’s two years longer than the Cold War!

LRHS sophomore Heyden Kudelko said, “Rocky has been a very motivational part of my life, and it’s no surprise the movies have done so well.”

Sophomore Dominick Kerman said, “Me and my family love Rocky! When Creed first released, I was obsessed, and I’m so excited to watch the third movie.”

LRHS guardian Tim Liffey said, “Sylvester Stallone brought flavor to the films, and the franchise has some of the best movies I’ve ever seen! I think it’s a very great series, and I think ‘Creed’ is a great way to continue the story! I’m super excited to see the third!”

Despite the time that Rocky has had its fame, the story lives on, and that very reason is why it will long be a part of our culture.