Film Review: Rocky III (1982)
Most critics agree that Rocky II is much inferior to the original 1976 film. There are many reasons for that, but the most noticeable is the similarity of the plot and setting which makes Rocky II at times look more like a remake than a sequel. Sylvester Stallone seems to be aware of this, so when he directed his new sequel Rocky III, he tried something different.
The plot begins years after the match in which Philadelphia boxer Rocky Balboa (played by Stallone) won the title of world's heavyweight boxing championship. In ensuing years he managed to defeat ten challengers and keep the title and now enjoys wealth, luxury and family bliss. With his native city honouring him with a statue, he is ready to announce his retirement. Those plans are thwarted by James "Clubber" Lang (played by Mr. T), young, ambitious and arrogant boxer who manages to insult Rocky into accepting the challenge. His loyal trainer Mickey (played by Burgess Meredith) wants to talk him out of it, because he had deliberately chose previous challengers in order not to hurt him and he knows that Rocky can't fight Clubber. Rocky nevertheless goes with the match, which ends in disaster – Rocky is knocked out, while Mickey dies of heart attack. After some time Rocky decides that he must try to regain his title and in doing so receives unexpected help from his previous rival Apollo Creed (played by Carl Weathers).
Lot of things have changed five years after original Rocky, and Stallone was quite aware of it. Unlike the film written by struggling actor about failed boxer in impoverished decaying city, this one was written, produced and directed by Hollywood star at the height of its popularity and the protagonist reflected that by living, acting, being dressed and surgically altered like the rich celebrity. Stallone also made this film look and sound different, with locations of cold, decaying Philadelphia being replaced with luxurious mansions and sunny California beaches (with slight exception of a gym in bad part of Los Angeles where Apollo helps Rocky get into shape). Stallone based character on himself and the ways he had tried to deal with fame, fortune and the need to stay on top. The script features some interesting dialogues, especially those given to character of Mickey, while the protagonist is well-written and his ordeal looks realistic. What this film lacks is more complexity in the portrayal of villain, who is played by Mr. T in his acting debut. Clubber is shown as one-dimensional arrogant thug, but, mostly due to Mr. T's colourful image this film helped that actor become one of the most iconic TV stars of 1980s. Same thing happened with WWF star Hulk Hogan who had impressive acting debut in the scene where his character engages in silly but spectacular wrestling match at the beginning of the film. Rocky III also gave opportunity for Carl Weathers to show his good acting ability and the scenes in which former rivals become best of friends are among the most effective in the films.
In the end, however, there aren't that many surprises in Rocky III, because Stallone knew that he had to keep the formula and deliver happy end to his fans. Predictability of the film is compensated with great technical skill. Stallone keeps film relatively short and easy to digest for most audience and the final boxing match is quite exciting. The impression is even better due to "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor, title song that became huge hit and later became one of the most recognisable pieces of film music. With its combination of macho melodrama, spectacular action and catchy pop music, Rocky III delivered many things 1980s were loved for.
RATING: 6/10 (++)
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Movie URL: https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/1371-rocky-iii
Critic: AA