Rocky Balboa • The Next Reel

"What we’ll be calling on is good, old fashioned, blunt force trauma." Sixteen years after Rocky V opened, the final final installment of the story of Rocky Balboa hit screens. Sylvester Stallone admitted to making the fifth for the money and wanted to really come back strong to finish it right this time. And he certainly does, giving his final entry as the franchise’s lead a great wrap-up. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our exploration of the Rocky films with Stallone’s 2006 film Rocky Balboa. We talk about the issues we have with the film, but why this film largely still works and is a strong finish. We look at what happens with Adrian and why it may be frustrating but makes for a better film. We chat about the antagonist and why we struggle with him in this one. We look at what works in the cinematography, particularly during the final fight, and what we struggle with in the editing and sound mix. And we discuss the new relationship that Rocky forms with Little Marie. All in all, it’s got its problems but it’s also got a ton of heart and that goes a long way in this franchise. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins. Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel! Film SundriesThank you for supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast on Patreon!Watch this film: iTunes • Amazon • YouTubeScript TranscriptOriginal theatrical trailerOriginal poster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible