The legendary story of Sylvester Stallone’s rise to fame through “Rocky” is set to be revisited in Peter Farrelly’s biographical drama, “I Play Rocky.” This film retraces the unexpected journey Stallone took to ensure he played the lead role in the iconic movie.
In the trailer for “I Play Rocky,” Stallone, portrayed by Anthony Ippolito, is shown pitching his screenplay to producers. Despite lucrative offers for his script, Stallone insisted on starring as the main character. His demand was unprecedented, especially considering his financial situation at the time. Film historian Dwight Cleveland highlighted this as an unusual move, as Stallone, when writing “Rocky,” was working as a valet attendant.
Legal expert Tisha Morris commented on Stallone’s decision as atypical for new writers. From a legal standpoint, Stallone was within his rights, as he owned the screenplay’s copyright. The risk was whether producers would walk away, leaving him both without money and a film.
Cleveland noted Stallone’s confidence was akin to his on-screen character. Stallone held onto his belief that his story could bring him stardom as both actor and author. This unwavering confidence ensured he retained creative control and influence in Hollywood.
Attorney Marc Simon described this decision as one of Hollywood’s most significant instances of an individual rejecting life-changing money on principle. Stallone, an emerging actor, was offered significant money for the script, along with high-profile actors like Ryan O’Neal, Burt Reynolds, and James Caan considered for the lead role.
Simon elaborated on the financial dynamics involved. Stallone’s terms allowed a reduced salary, presenting a manageable risk to filmmakers. “Rocky” was developed with a modest $1 million budget, which made United Artists more comfortable with the casting of Stallone.
“Rocky,” released in 1976, is a classic underdog story revolving around Rocky Balboa, a Philadelphia boxer given a chance to fight heavyweight champion Apollo Creed. The film was both commercially and critically successful, earning 10 Academy Award nominations, including best actor and best original screenplay for Stallone, and winning three Oscars.
The movie launched one of cinema’s major franchises and solidified Rocky Balboa’s legacy. “Rocky” made Stallone a household name.
Amazon will release “I Play Rocky” in November. Stallone is not involved in the biopic, stating he was surprised by its production. The film stars Anthony Ippolito as Stallone and AnnaSophia Robb as Stallone’s first wife, Sasha Czack. Others in the cast include Stephan James, Matt Dillon, and P.J. Byrne.