Rocky

In Rocky, a film written and starred in by Sylvester Stallone, we are introduced to Rocky Balboa, a fictional character who lives in the slums, is a small-time boxer, collects for a loan shark on the side, and loves a shy, awkward girl named Adrian. Yet, this often dim-witted, hard working, down-to-earth guy with determination from the slums of Philadelphia is an American hero. He is an American hero because he represents one of America's most enduring myths-the Horatio Alger myth. On their first date, the wallflower Adrian asks him why he boxes and his reply is "'Cause I can't sing or dance.'" (Dirks 2). Yet, there are many reasons why this fictional character possesses qualities that make him an American hero.

Rocky represents an American hero because his character embodies many American values, especially important among audiences when the film first appeared in 1976 the year of the American Bicentennial. Bicentennial fervor had been growing in America for a couple years before 1976, similar to how the turn-of-the-century is now being anticipated to a greater degree with each passing day. The film took full advantage of this fascination, including the red, white and blue set decoration for the film's climatic fight and Apollo Creed dressing up in full Uncle Sam regalia before the fight. For Rocky is an average guy who thinks he has a chance at the big time by fighting Apollo Creed. Creed's managers stage a concept fight that pits a n

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to receive when they are socio-economically disadvantaged. As he says to one TV reporter, when asked about his reasons for wanting to fight the heavyweight champ, "I just wanna prove something' � I ain't no bum�It don't matter if I lose�don't matter if he opens my head�The only thing I wanna do is go the distance � That's all" (Dirks 2). Many Americans in similar situations as Rocky's when the film opens do manage to go the distance, despite the numerous obstacles and disadvantages in their way. Seldom, however, do they get to be admired or looked up to for such a feat. Rocky became a hero by being someone whom they could relate to, someone who made them think their own struggles were surmountable, and someone who actually got some respect for doing so. Many men in the audience fancied themselves Rocky, or having the potential of Rocky. If a guy like him could become a success, hang in there in spite of the obstacles and win the love and respect of their girl, they might be able to also. More importantly, Rocky refuses to give up on his self-respect. He has respect for others but little for himself. He knows this is his one big chance to try and grab the brass ring, to make something out of himself. More than that, he

Category: Film - R