The Underdog Wins: "Rocky" the movie released 42 years ago today
One movie reviewer described it as a “perhaps oversold and over-publicized, but nonetheless a solid, realistic drama with a boxing background…” *
That’s how Associated Press writer Norm Goldstein characterized the movie, “Rocky,” in his year-end review of the movies of 1976. *
“Rocky” premiered in New York City in November 1976 and was released to the general public the following December 3. Hard to believe, that was 42 years ago today. **
Aside from the Liberty Bell and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Rocky the movie and its protagonist -- all ‘round good guy and downtrodden fighter Rocky Balboa -- have become Philadelphia icons.
According to “2018 Chase’s Calendar of Events,” “the low-budget and quickly shot film became a sleeper success and won three Oscars, including Best Picture.” **
Another winner was the Philadelphia Museum of Art, whose steps Rocky the fighter climbed as the representative of underdogs everywhere. Today they’re known as the “Rocky Steps.” ***
So much for the critics….
* From the article, “No Blockbusters in ‘76 from Hollywood,” by Associated Press writer Norm Goldstein. Appeared in the Middletown Journal, January 2, 1977. Available to library cardholders via the MidPointe Library website at Research Databases / Magazines and Newspapers: https://www.midpointelibrary.org/page/research
** From the “2018 Chase’s Calendar of Events -- The Ultimate Go-To Guide for Special Days, Weeks and Months.” Published by Rowman & Littlefield. Available at MidPointe Library.
MidPointe also provides downloadable movies, TV shows and so much more. Library cardholders can access Hoopla and Ohio Digital Library from the library website: https://www.midpointelibrary.org/page/movies-and-tv
