The film “Rocky” (1976) follows a professional boxer named Rocky Balboa as he embraces the challenge of “going the distance.” Rocky’s determination serves as an inspiration to many who watch this film.
The main conflict in “Rocky” is found within Rocky as he faces a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. He is given the opportunity to display his talents on a grand stage while not being much more than a hobbyist competing for money. The film follows his journey to success and the many obstacles along the way.
Rocky’s toughness and determination are seen all throughout this journey. Even when he reaches the final competition he remains determined to “go the distance” as he is quoted saying numerous times.
This display of toughness and determination alludes to a greater truth that has stood the test of time. The philosophy in “Rocky” about “going the distance” is derived from a far greater truth found all throughout Scripture.
The film’s entire message originates in Christ’s teachings about perseverance. Jesus said to His disciples “You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22).
“Rocky” is not explicitly a Christian film nor does it deliberately include Christian themes. Yet this film serves as a modern-day parable for the teachings of Jesus to persevere and as Rocky would say to “go the distance.”
This inspiration of this message is perpetuated further by the film’s focus on Rocky’s personal life. As Taylor University film student and WTUR radio host Ben Crouch said, “He’s just a simple guy trying to do the right thing in a world where he’s never had a chance to prove his potential.” The film’s intentionality to focus on Rocky as a person rather than as a fighter makes him far more relatable.
The film does highlight Rocky’s training but not for long. It focuses mainly on Rocky as a person. Taylor University film professor Steve Bailey claims that the montage of Rocky’s training helps to show Rocky training but not take the focus off of Rocky as an average person.
“Rocky” is an overall well-made film that tells an inspiring story. It is a low budget film that has stood the test of time. It’s a classic film that many people enjoy and is deserving of a rating of four out of five stars.
The film is rated PG as it typically keeps violence to a minimum. The Dove organization, a Christian organization that rates films, awarded “Rocky” five points in the negative category for occasional language, violence, and drug use and awarded the film zero points in the positive category for its lack of deliberately Christian themes.
“Rocky” is a well-crafted film with an inspiring and hope-filled message. It has been highly praised since its release in 1976 and is well worth the time to experience it.
Film Ratings of “Rocky” film:
Echo Review: 4 out of 5 stars
Dove Review: 5 points in negative category; 0 points in the positive category
