Sylvester Stallone and His Friends' Films Podcast

Ryan welcomes Variety writer Matthew Chernov (How the West Was Cast) to It’s a Long Road for a scene-by-scene look at Rambo III’s botched rescue.They talk Variety lists, why Matthew ranks Rambo III second in the franchise, then the failed raid: Trautman still captive, the injured boy, the sewer swim, the RPG that buys time, handing over Co’s necklace, and Stallone’s classic self-surgery with gunpowder. Matthew also walks through the 2021 Julian’s Auctions Stallone sale — First Blood knife, poncho, bow, Rocky script pages — and plugs How the West Was Cast plus his Variety pieces, including Tulsa King costume design.Ryan also hosts One More Round, the Rocky series podcast.00:00 – Intro and Matthew’s Variety work  08:40 – Why he ranks Rambo III #2  12:50 – Bond and western podcasts / How the West Was Cast  41:00 – Sewer escape, the boy, and the failed mission  43:30 – Sending the boy northwest / Co’s necklace  45:30 – Wound-cauterizing sequence and the body cast  48:30 – How the episode felt as a first-time video guest  49:50 – Plugs: How the West Was Cast, matthewchernov.com, Tulsa King  51:20 – Julian’s Auctions Stallone memorabilia  56:10 – Wrap-up

Ryan welcomes Dominick Tartamella (Movie Thoughts podcast, Genuine Reels impersonations) to It’s a Long Road for another scene-by-scene pass through Rambo III.They cover Dominick’s Stallone fandom from his dad’s VHS tapes, why Rambo III is his least favorite of the series, and then the aftermath of the village attack: the leader’s “where is the honor?” speech, Rambo declaring “it is now” his war, the boy who wants to fight, and the famous “he would do it for me / he calls me Johnny” walk-off. Along the way: hairline debates, possible lip work, a visible costume flub, and plenty of Rocky asides.Find Dominick’s solo reviews on Movie Thoughts. Ryan also hosts One More Round, the Rocky series podcast.00:00 – Intro and Dominick’s Movie Thoughts / Genuine Reels  06:00 – Stallone and Rambo fandom origin  12:30 – Overall take on Rambo III  16:00+ – Hair, lips, and peak physical Stallone  49:40 – Hair plugs debate  51:40 – Leader scene after the attack / “where is the honor?”  56:00 – “It is now” / “you’re a good friend”  59:30 – The boy wants to fight  1:00:30 – “He would do it for me” walk-off  1:01:30 – Wrap-up and plugs

Ryan welcomes Sicco (Hugging a Cactus / the Mel Gibson podcast, the Arnold podcast, Last of the Action Heroes Network) for his first appearance on It’s a Long Road, the Rambo series podcast.They talk overall Rambo fandom — why First Blood is Stallone’s best acting work — then settle into Rambo III: the well-shot Russian prison sequence with Trautman, the village hospital, Soviet toy mines, Yuri the defector’s rock-and-stick briefing, and the council that decides whether to help free Trautman. Sicco adds real-world timing on the Soviet-Afghan war and why the movie already felt slightly out of date in 1988.Also plugged: Game Changers (starting with G.I. Jane), Bird on a Wire, Nowhere to Run, Spies Like Us, Red Dawn, and the new Arnold season.00:00 – Intro and Sicco’s shows (Mel Gibson, Arnold, Game Changers)  04:40 – Overall Rambo fandom and First Blood as acting  07:00 – How Rambo III felt in 1988 vs now  11:20 – Real-world Soviet-Afghan conflict timing  16:50 – Back at the Russian base / Trautman in the cell  18:00 – Cinematography and theatrical look  43:40 – Village hospital, prosthetic limbs, toy mines  45:40 – Yuri the defector  47:20 – Council meeting and the miniature base briefing  51:20 – “I’ll go alone” vs asking for two men  53:00 – Holy warriors speech and why Stallone made the movie  57:30 – Wrap-up and network plugs

Ryan welcomes friends Sean and Brad from **Eh & B! The PNW Sports Show** for more Rambo III coverage on It’s a Long Road!  We pick up right after Troutman’s capture, dive into the intense interrogation with the Russian commander, Troutman’s powerful “We had our Vietnam” speech, the prophetic dialogue about the Afghan people, and the epic horseback trek through the mountains with Mousa.  Expect plenty of laughs, wrestling stories, Sly vs. Arnold debate, and real talk about the franchise’s life lessons.  **Find Sean & Brad:**  Eh & B! The PNW Sports Show – available on all major podcast platforms  Facebook | Instagram | Twitter (search Eh & B! or The PNW Sports Show)00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome  01:15 Sean & Brad Intro + Wrestling Stories  05:00 Eh & B! Podcast Background  05:45 Rambo Franchise Fandom Overview  08:29 Sean’s Rocky/Rambo Origin Story  11:31 Rambo 3 Production Facts  12:34 Sly vs. Arnold & Military Realism  16:20 Picking Up After Troutman’s Capture  43:03 Russian Commander Interrogation Begins  49:24 Troutman’s “We Had Our Vietnam” Speech  54:23 Mountain Trek with Mousa  56:05 Afghan Prayer & Prayer of Crom Comparison  59:15 Closing & Guest Plugs  

Continuing Season 3 of It’s a Long Road with special guest Dan from the Retrospectors YouTube channel (Sega retro gaming & online multiplayer on original hardware)! We break down key early Rambo III scenes: Rambo’s refusal of the Afghanistan mission (“I’m not ready yet”), the contemplative rooftop moments, Troutman’s bizarrely planned nighttime operation that goes sideways, and Rambo’s decision to go in unofficially.Dan shares how he discovered the podcast via James Rolfe, his Sega roots (Phantasy Star stories!), and how a younger fan found Rocky & Rambo in the early 2000s. Like, comment your thoughts on the mission planning, and subscribe!Check out Dan’s channel: Retrospectors (Sega-focused retro gaming content).00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome  00:44 Dan’s Channel & How He Found the Podcast  03:11 Sega Gaming Talk & Phantasy Star Story  09:27 Rambo/Sega Games & Sly Fandom Origins  15:37 Dan’s Path to Rocky & Rambo  32:33 “I’m Not Ready Yet” Scene & Analogy  35:31 Troutman’s Nighttime Mission Begins  41:07 Mission Failure & Capture  43:36 Rambo Learns the News & Goes Unofficial  45:12 Closing & Full Circle Discussion  

Host Ryan kicks off Rambo III coverage with special guest Nikki from the Beat the Cult podcast. We dive into the film’s unique opening: Rambo’s intense stick-fighting match in Thailand, his self-flagellation and guilt, Troutman’s surprise arrival at the monastery, and the pitch for the Afghanistan mission.Nikki shares her Sly Stallone fandom origin story (Rocky IV inspiration during her weight-loss journey), first viewings of the Rambo films, and fresh perspective on the character. Like, comment, and subscribe!Follow Nikki / Beat the Cult on YouTube (and Twitter).00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome  00:53 Nikki’s Beat the Cult Podcast & Atheist Perspective  07:31 Nikki’s Sly Fandom & Weight Loss Journey  16:29 First Time Watching Rambo 3  20:30 Rambo III Opening Credits & Stick Fight Setup  27:22 Stick Fight Sequence & Self-Flagellation  36:27 Troutman Arrives at the Monastery  40:19 Afghanistan Mission Pitch  43:49 Closing Thoughts & Episode Wrap  

Sylvester Stallone stars in the 2002 (filmed 1999) horror/thriller Eye See You (ICU) (aka Detox)! The crew dives into this overlooked slasher where Stallone plays an FBI agent tracking a cop killer who ends up in a remote Wyoming rehab facility with other troubled officers.We discuss the bizarre kills (eye-drilling, impalements), weak plot, future tech predictions that didn’t land, strong supporting cast moments (Robert Patrick, Charles S. Dutton, Polly Walker), and why this one flopped despite the talent involved.

Dive into the 1993 Sylvester Stallone sci-fi action classic Demolition Man! The crew breaks down Stallone as John Spartan, Wesley Snipes as the chaotic Simon Phoenix, Sandra Bullock as Huxley, and the wild utopian future society complete with three seashells, simulated sex, and cryo-prison twists.We cover the over-the-top action, hilarious one-liners, future tech predictions that came true, casting stories, and why this leave-your-brain-at-the-door buddy-cop movie still delivers. From the Taco Bell showdown to the epic finale, we discuss what holds up and what doesn’t.

Join the Stallone fan podcast crew for a deep dive into the 1981 classic Victory (aka Escape to Victory)! We break down Sylvester Stallone’s POW soccer drama with Michael Caine, Pelé, and Max von Sydow — covering the epic match, real soccer legends on screen, escape plans, John Huston’s direction, and tons of fun trivia.From Stallone’s training injuries and on-set demands to the legendary bicycle kick, halftime escape chaos, and that crowd-rush finale, we discuss what makes this sports-war hybrid still hold up. Great cast chemistry, impressive cinematography, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Join Ryan, Kyle, and Katie for another fun-filled episode of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast as we break down key scenes from Rocky II! We discuss Rocky's emotional rock bottom, his heartfelt conversation with Mickey at the gym, the powerful stairs scenes, and what it means for the Italian Stallion's future in the ring.Plus: Sly news with the hilarious Paramount+ "Stallone Face" Super Bowl commercial featuring his daughters, updates on his upcoming reality show, an in-depth email from our favorite German listener Patrick about the toxic drama on the Stallone Zone forum regarding Creed III, and speculation on Creed IV. We also play Rocky trivia and chat vacations, vacation policies, and more!0:00 - Intro & Listener Vacations3:53 - Sly News: Paramount+ Commercial & Reality Show7:14 - Email from Patrick: Stallone Zone Forum Drama & Creed Thoughts17:58 - Creed III/IV Discussion & Gatekeeping23:50 - Rocky Trivia25:50 - Rocky II Scene Breakdown: Walk with Butkus & Mickey Reunion31:28 - "You'll Go Blind" Eye Test & Emotional Locker Room Talk42:34 - Rock Bottom & Working at the Gym47:15 - Episode Wrap-Up & Trivia Answers

Join us on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast as we dive deep into Rocky II! We discuss the meat montage, Adrian's pregnancy tensions, Paulie's dockside wisdom, Rocky's eye injury struggles, fan emails, trivia, and why this sequel's fight and montages still hit hard. From Rocky hitting the slabs to debates on the rematch, Apollo's pressure, and classic Rocky-isms – this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and Rocky love.0:00 - Intro & Hosts Check-In (Hangovers & Anti-Anxiety Meds)1:50 - Listener Emails: Simon on Edits & Rocky’s Grammar5:45 - YouTube Comments & Creed 3 News Tease7:15 - Andreas Comments: Adrian Pressure & Rocky II Fight Analysis11:45 - Donald on Rocky II Fight Rules & Slips17:05 - Pam Anderson Sly Story & Meat Montage Preview19:50 - Rocky Home from Work & Adrian Scene27:55 - Full Meat Montage Discussion31:20 - Rocky Gets Laid Off & Paulie at the Docks39:05 - Basement Fight Decision & Adrian Argument53:25 - Punching Bag Frustration & Episode Wrap

Join Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round as they dive deep into Rocky II! From Rocky's hilarious office job interviews and Adrian's unwavering support to Paulie's thumb-breaking side hustle at the meat factory, this episode is packed with laughs, fan emails, trivia, and hidden details you might have missed.We discuss Stallone's real-life home sales, Facebook's wild self-harm flag on a movie quote, listener stories from Spain, and so much more. Perfect for Rocky fans, movie buffs, and anyone who loves classic underdog stories.0:00 - Intro & Listener Emails7:35 - Jamie's Email from Barcelona15:44 - YouTube Comments & Facebook Drama20:24 - Stallone Real Estate News24:10 - Film Discussion: Rocky's Reading & Office Job Hunt39:43 - Zoo Scene & Religious Themes47:08 - Paulie at the Meat Factory & Joe Frazier Nod53:34 - Rocky Trivia

Join Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round as they dive deep into Rocky II! In this episode, we react to Apollo Creed reading brutal hate mail, Rocky's neighborhood stickball game, Adrian's pregnancy reveal at the hospital, and the hilariously cringy Beast Aftershave commercial shoot. We discuss Rocky and Adrian's baby dreams, Apollo's mid-century modern mansion, continuity questions (like the cufflinks), Philly geography facts from listener Brian, and plenty of laughs along the way.0:00 - Intro, Holidays, Patreon & Tulsa King Update5:30 - Listener Email: Philly Geography in Rocky II (Ambulance Route & Zoo)11:00 - Apollo Reading Hate Mail Scene Breakdown20:00 - Cufflink Continuity Theory & Rocky V Connection28:00 - Rocky Playing Stickball with Neighborhood Kids31:30 - Adrian's Pregnancy Reveal & Hospital Scene42:00 - Smart Deal Toy Commercial & Cringy Shoot Meltdown59:00 - Director Drama, "Punchy" Explanation & Trivia Game1:05:00 - Outro & Next Episode Tease

 In this episode, Ryan, Katie, and Kyle discuss Rocky II (1979), picking up after the iconic first fight.The crew covers Rocky and Adrian’s sweet (and awkward) married life, the neighborhood jukebox singers, the shopping spree with the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am, the new house tour with sky-high taxes, Butkus in his Eagles jersey, brain damage banter, and plenty of Rocky-isms. Plus, they tackle listener emails, Tulsa King crossovers, trivia questions, and more!0:00 - Intro & Listener Emails6:30 - Tulsa King Rocky Crossover & Simon's Film14:00 - Rocky & Adrian Wedding Night & Coitus Talk22:00 - Neighborhood Jukebox & Carrying Adrian Home33:00 - Shopping Spree, Trans Am & Tiger Jacket43:00 - New House Tour, Bricks & Mortgage Details52:00 - Trivia Answers & Bum Count1:02:00 - Overall Thoughts & Wrap-Up

 In this episode, Ryan (Going the Distance), Craig (Sly Cast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) from the Stallone Podcast Network tackle Backtrace (2018), one of Stallone’s lesser-known straight-to-video thrillers.The guys start with an update on the upcoming Rocky 4 Director’s Cut before diving into Backtrace — a $6 million heist/amnesia movie starring Matthew Modine as a bank robber with memory loss, Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), and Sly in a supporting detective role. They discuss the wild family twist, the experimental memory serum, endless plot holes, questionable acting (including investor-actress Meta Williams), the cement factory showdown, and why Sly signed on post-Creed.Expect honest banter about the film’s shortcomings, production curiosities, and how it stacks up against better Stallone entries. This one’s a rough watch, but the conversation delivers!0:00 - Intro & Rocky 4 Director’s Cut Discussion8:40 - Backtrace Specs, Budget & Why Sly Did It16:20 - Opening Heist, Matthew Modine & Amnesia Setup29:00 - Prison Break, Memory Serum & Family Reveal41:00 - Cement Factory Search & Plot Holes52:00 - Shootout, Twists & Stallone’s Big Scene1:05:00 - Ending Breakdown & “I’ll Take Care of It”1:12:00 - Overall Thoughts, Meta Williams Story & Final Rant

In this episode, Ryan, Doug, and Craig from the Stallone Podcast Network sit down for a comprehensive discussion of Sylvester Stallone’s 1981 thriller Nighthawks.The hosts explore Sly’s performance as undercover cop D’Silva (complete with the memorable beard), his strong chemistry with Billy Dee Williams as partner Matthew Fox, the gritty 1980s New York City setting, and the intense cat-and-mouse game with terrorist Wolfgar. They cover the film’s disco-heavy soundtrack featuring Rolling Stones' Brown Sugar, Keith Emerson score, key action sequences like the tram climax, deleted scenes, Stallone’s on-set influence, Rocky-isms, plot devices, and whether this could have been a buddy-cop classic.Tune in for an in-depth look at one of Stallone’s more grounded early dramatic roles outside the Rocky and Rambo franchises.0:00 - Intro & Welcome3:30 - First Impressions & Stallone Beard Talk8:45 - Opening Drag Scene, Fights & Miranda Rights15:20 - Billy Dee Chemistry, Comedy Bits & Rocky References22:00 - Hauer as Wolfgar: Backstory & Kills35:15 - Long Anti-Terrorist Briefing & Military Record48:30 - Tram Sequence, Ending Reveal & Stunts1:05:00 - Overall Thoughts, New York Grit & Film Potential1:12:00 - Listener Comments & Future Episodes

 Ryan, Doug & Craig dive into Sylvester Stallone’s legendary TV appearances — his 1979 guest spot on The Muppet Show and his 1997 hosting gig on Saturday Night Live.We break down the skits, Stallone’s straight-man energy with the Muppets, his comedic timing on SNL, and plenty of laughs along the way. Expect fun banter, behind-the-scenes insights, and classic Stallone moments from two iconic shows.If you love Sly, comedy history, or nostalgic TV deep dives, this one’s for you!0:00 – Intro & network update3:30 – The Muppet Show (1979) discussion10:00 – Gladiator & groupie skits22:00 – Saturday Night Live (1997) begins28:00 – Orange Julius & vending machine chaos40:00 – Jim Brewer & Tracy Morgan highlights50:00 – Final thoughts & career reflections

Join host Ryan and special guest Tim (Round 14 Podcast) for a detailed scene-by-scene breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II. They discuss the insane helicopter stunts, mud camouflage, explosive arrow kills, Russian hand-to-hand combat, village destruction, the iconic M60 one-handed rampage, and why the practical effects still hold up decades later.Tim shares his long-time Rambo fandom and they compare notes on Sly Stallone’s action style, military themes, and 80s filmmaking magic.0:29 – Intro & guest Tim16:53 – Helicopter boarding & Russian fight24:52 – Helicopter duel & village attack29:53 – M60 rampage & chaos42:09 – Helicopter chase & model explosion49:40 – Bazooka finish & final escape

Join host Ryan and special guest Adrian (Arcade Attack Podcast) for a detailed scene-by-scene breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II. They discuss the intense helicopter stunts, mud camouflage, explosive arrow kills, Russian hand-to-hand combat, village destruction, M60 one-handed rampage, and the practical effects that still hold up today.Adrian shares his Rambo fandom, they compare notes on Sly Stallone’s action style, and appreciate the raw 80s filmmaking without CGI.0:29 – Intro & guest Adrian16:53 – Helicopter boarding stunt24:52 – Russian helicopter duel29:53 – Village destruction & missile barrage33:30 – Rambo grabs the M6042:09 – Helicopter chase & model explosion49:40 – Bazooka finish & final escape

Ryan sits down with **Robert Bruzio**, screenwriter of the underdog baseball drama **Bottom of the Ninth** starring Joe Manganiello. They discuss the film's journey, Rocky connections (John G. Avildsen, Bert Young, Sly Stallone), working on the set of Rocky Balboa, and the passion behind telling redemption stories.Robert shares incredible stories about cold-calling legends, Italian-American themes, and what it’s like to see your words come to life on screen.0:00 – Intro & Robert Bruzio welcome  2:55 – Bottom of the Ninth background & Joe Manganiello  9:12 – Rocky connections & John Avildsen  13:12 – Meeting Sly Stallone on Rocky Balboa set  18:14 – Writing process & underdog themes  23:32 – Rambo First Blood Part 2 discussion  29:48 – Final thoughts & upcoming projects  

James Rolfe (Angry Video Game Nerd / Cinemassacre) returns to It's a Long Road for a deep dive into Rambo: First Blood Part II! We break down the brutal torture sequence (real leeches, hot knife, electric shocks), the legendary mic crush "Murdoch... I'm coming to get you" moment, Co's shocking death, Stallone's insane physique & practical 80s effects, helicopter chases, Russian villains, and why this sequel unleashes pure one-man-army action. Plus nostalgia talk, Rocky comparisons, Saturday morning cartoons, and James's thoughts on Rambo vs. Rocky legacy.A fun, nerdy chat with one of YouTube's legends – if you're into Stallone, 80s action, or AVGN-style breakdowns, this one's for you!

Join host Ryan Rebalkin and special guest Walter Beneziak (Channel Awesome, FanScription, Nostalgia Critic contributor) for an in-depth breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II! We dive into the intense torture sequence, Stallone's insane physical dedication (real leeches, hot knife effects, and peak 80s flexing), the mic crush "I'm coming to get you" moment, Russian villains, POW camp escapes, and how the film differs from David Morrell's novel. Plus Stallone discoveries, practical 1985 effects, and why this sequel unleashes Rambo like never before.If you're a Stallone fan, Rambo lover, or just into 80s action lore, this episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and fun headcanon debates!

Ever wondered if Jean-Claude Van Damme's 1988 martial arts masterpiece Bloodsport still holds up? Kyle watches it completely blind for the first time while Ryan relives his teenage obsession with endless VHS rewatches. We break down the insane splits, brutal Kumite fights, Chong Li's villain energy, Ray Jackson's biker charm, that legendary training montage, and the shocking "true story" claim at the end (spoiler: it's wild).From nostalgic highs to 2026 reality checks, we talk cult status, 80s cheese, questionable plot logic, Hong Kong filming locations, and why this low-budget gem made $65M on $2M. Plus first-time wife reactions, splits drinking game potential, and way too much love for the sweeper guy.If you grew up on Van Damme or just love tournament-style action flicks, this one's for you!

Join the Stallone Podcast Network crossover as hosts from Rocky Minute (Doug), Sly Cast (Craig), and Going the Distance / One More Round (Ryan) dive into the cult classic Death Race 2000 (1975)!In a dystopian 2000 where the Transcontinental Road Race scores points for running over pedestrians (toddlers = 70, elders = 100!), we break down Roger Corman's satirical grindhouse gem: Stallone's scene-stealing villain Machine Gun Joe Viterbo (pre-Rocky star power!), David Carradine's masked Frankenstein, Nazi drivers, fake tunnels, landmine kills, and the hilarious tone clash (comedy vs. grit tug-of-war between director Paul Bartel and Corman).We react to key moments (grenade hand reveal, pit stop absurdity, rebel sabotage, and that ending twist), discuss Stallone's charisma as a bad guy, why it's endlessly rewatchable, and how it predicted drone tech and reality TV violence. Plus, laughs over YouTube complainers wanting free streams, point system debates, and why this low-budget B-movie is pure fun.

Join the Stallone Podcast Network crossover special as hosts from Rocky Minute, Sly Cast, and Going the Distance / One More Round unite to dissect Sylvester Stallone's 2000 remake Get Carter!We dive into why this revenge thriller (with Michael Caine reprising his iconic role, Mickey Rourke's shady Cyrus, Alan Cumming's golf metaphors, and that infamous goatee) promised so much but delivered frustration: mismatched tone, dated early-2000s editing, low body count, weird soundtrack, and wasted potential for a dark Stallone anti-hero rampage.Hear our first-watch memories (theater excitement vs. 20-year revisit disappointment), the Michael Caine cameo that grew into the big twist, Rourke's "still pretty" scene, the elevator fight nod to Rocky, body-shaming lines, and why it earned Razzies nominations. Plus, laughs over the "cat piss in the snow" callback, Franchise Pictures drama, and Stallone's post-Cop Land career dip.Was it ahead of its time, or just a mess? Who's the MVP: Sly, Caine, or Rourke?

Dive deeper into Rocky II (1979) on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast Season 2! We break down the heartfelt post-hospital moments: Rocky's fresh air freedom, quirky commercial pitches, the snowy zoo proposal (with that Bengal tiger cameo), the intimate Catholic wedding ceremony, and the sweet newlywed vibes. Hear our thoughts on why the zoo choice is iconic (or hilariously ironic), Adrian's beautiful dress, Father Carmine's Italian vows, Paulie's "proper busting" jokes, and Rocky's innocent take on marriage (no hair in the sink!).Plus, fresh reactions to the first three episodes of Tulsa King—Sly's high limo scene, world-building with Bodhi and Tyson, edgy old-school charm, and why this feels tailor-made for Stallone. We chat Patreon perks (raw uncut Discord uploads, Tulsa King watch-alongs for $1/month), bear-proof garbage latches, and why Kyle's sitting this one out (Mr. Mom duties!).

Dive into the heart-pounding start of Season 2 of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast! We’re back and more excited than ever to relive the Rocky saga, beginning with the underrated powerhouse that is Rocky II (1979).Expect heated debates on the hospital rematch chaos, Apollo's epic trolling, Rocky's "lucky" shots, brain damage concerns, and why this sequel might just be the most underappreciated in the franchise. We kick things off with fresh Sly Stallone updates—including reactions to the first episodes of Tulsa King (Sly looks sharp in that suit!), rumors about Rambo/Rocky prequels, Creed 4 possibilities, and Jonathan Majors' intense prep for Creed 3.Plus, we launch our Bum Count predictions for Rocky II, drop tough trivia questions (Mickey's training minutes, robe colors, and more), and share laughs over continuity quirks, Paulie's peak form, and why the domestic drama hits harder now.Whether you're a die-hard fan revisiting the Italian Stallion's journey or new to the series, this episode teases the grit, heart, and surprises ahead in Rocky II. Who's winning the bum count this time? 

The Season 1 finale of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast is here! We break down the legendary Rocky vs. Apollo Creed fight—from the shocking first-round knockdown, brutal body shots, rope-a-dope moments, and rib-cracking drama to Rocky's true goal: going the distance. We discuss inspirations from the real Ali-Wepner fight, Mickey's "stay down," Apollo's panic, the "no rematch" line, and that emotional Adrian reunion. Plus, fan emails on cinematography, editing tricks (doubled punches!), bum counts finale, and why this ending feels perfect—no sequels needed (but thank goodness they happened). If you're a Rocky fan, this emotional close-out hits hard.

Dive into the heart of Rocky with hosts Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast! We react to the Creed 3 trailer (predictable but Jonathan Majors steals it?), discuss why Sly's absence might mean a time jump (or worse?), and break down the legendary training montage—from sunrise jogs and meat punching to one-arm push-ups and the iconic Philadelphia steps run. Plus, the emotional peak: Rocky's vulnerable "I can't beat him" confession to Adrian, where he redefines success as simply going the distance. This isn't just about winning—it's about proving you're more than "just another bum from the neighborhood." We cover fun trivia (reverse-filmed steps dance, wrong shorts on the banner!), behind-the-scenes stories, and why this scene makes Rocky timeless. If you're a Rocky fan, this episode hits hard with analysis, laughs, and inspiration.

Join hosts Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on The Rocky Series Podcast as they unpack one of the most intense family moments in Rocky history. Things get heated when Paulie comes home drunk on Thanksgiving, leading to raw confrontations, shocking lines, and Adrian finally standing her ground. We dive into Paulie's darker side, his obsession with "purity," that unforgettable "You're busted!" moment, and why this scene shows Rocky is way more than just boxing.We also cover Stallone's real-life reconciliation news (right after we recorded divorce talk—talk about timing!), real leeches in Rambo (confirmed by a Sly friend!), bum counts, and the final trivia showdown for Rocky 1—who wins the scorecard?Expect laughs, deep analysis of family dynamics, acting breakdowns (Talia Shire and Burt Young shine), and holiday vibes clashing with chaos. If you're a Rocky fan, you won't want to miss this emotional rollercoaster.

Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) dissect this low-budget ($3.6M) revenge thriller, praising brutal kills, Max Zhang's standout martial arts, Dave Bautista's indestructible rampage, and Sly's Rambo-esque fury, while slamming convoluted plots, sloppy editing, illogical traps (exploding mines?), generic villains, and baffling choices like the spinning prison nod from Part 2. Better than Hades (25% on Rotten Tomatoes vs. 7%), but still a forgettable VOD slog with graphic violence, shaky fights, and zero spark. Highlights: Jin Zhang's choreography and Sly's throat-slit finale. Perfect for die-hards craving gritty '80s vibes, but skip if you want the original's cleverness.

Hosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) brave this fan-voted disaster, unpacking Ray Breslin's return to a high-tech hellhole prison run by a fired protégé, complete with convoluted plots, baffling "algorithm" rants, robotic doctors, spinning rooms, and martial arts shifts aimed at the Chinese market. They roast the bait-and-switch billing (Stallone and Dave Bautista barely share scenes), shaky editing, illogical twists (a massive underground facility beneath an Atlanta church?), generic villains, and Stallone's limited screentime amid bad CGI and zero chemistry. Highlights include Huang Xiaoming's solid fights, Titus Welliver's wasted "Zookeeper," and absurd moments like the fallout boy cameo. With a dismal 7% on Rotten Tomatoes and a box office loss ($18M gross on $20M budget), this China-financed mess proves even icons can't escape bad scripts.

Hosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) reunite for this fan-voted crossover, breaking down Ray Breslin's genius escapes, the clever twists (including Rottmayer's secret identity), Arnold's standout performance with killer one-liners and machine-gun mayhem, and Sly's MacGyver-level smarts. They geek out over the clever opening sequence, the ship reveal's ingenuity, fun nods to classic action tropes, and supporting turns from Jim Caviezel, 50 Cent, and Sam Neill, while nitpicking flaws like over-the-top tech, plot holes, and underwhelming villain payoffs. Despite mixed reviews (49% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a modest domestic box office, this $137M global earner delivers solid '80s-style thrills with modern twists, proving these icons still pack a punch. 

 Join hosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Doug (Rocky Minute), and Craig (Slycast) as they suffer through a fan-voted deep dive into Stallone's early role as Stanley, the tough-but-vulnerable gang member navigating pregnancy scares, stolen cars, awkward dates, and zero character arcs. The crew rips apart the film's terrible soundtrack, out-of-focus shots, forced acting, endless dead air, and baffling plot holes, like why these 28-year-olds pass as high schoolers, the pointless subplots, and that infamous Richard Gere firing story involving mustard and hot dogs. Highlights include early Rocky vibes (pigeon coop monologues, animal talks), Godfather wedding rip-offs, and savage rants on why this forgettable flick is "absolute garbage" despite its cult status. If you're a die-hard Sly fan curious about his origins, or just love hearing podcasters in pain, this brutally honest crossover roast delivers laughs, frustration, and Rocky connections you won't forget. 

Host Ryan reunites with returning guest John Rivoli, Sylvester Stallone’s official Rocky and Rambo artist, for a hilarious and insight-packed deep dive into the infamous helicopter betrayal and POW rescue attempt in Rambo: First Blood Part II. From real leeches to a terrifying ex-con Russian henchman who once stalked Sly in Beverly Hills, plus behind-the-scenes bombshells about deleted scenes, novelization secrets, and whether Rambo’s still a virgin—this episode is pure 80s adrenaline with exclusive Stallone stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Ryan welcomes UK listener-turned-guest John, a psychology enthusiast with real insight into trauma and the human mind, as they dive deep into the heart-pounding prison camp infiltration of Rambo: First Blood Part II. From Rambo’s silent bow kills and explosive-arrow stealth to that heartbreakingly tender “You’re not expendable” moment with Co, they unpack the raw vulnerability beneath the muscle, the adrenaline-fueled defense mechanisms of PTSD, and why Rambo’s quiet fragility hits harder than any body count. It’s the ultimate blend of ’80s action mayhem and real psychological firepower

Dive back into the jungle with host Ryan and legendary Stallone documentarian Derek Wayne Johnson as they break down the steamy, sweaty early moments of Rambo: First Blood Part II – from Rambo’s botched drop zone and explosive-arrow memories to Co’s unforgettable introduction, pirate river boats, and that intimate “expendable”  chat that still hits hard. Derek shares wild behind-the-scenes stories, from holding an actual screen-used Rambo II arrow at Frank Stallone’s house to his secret Rocky IV location tour with James Rolfe (AVGN), plus updates on upcoming projects and candid thoughts on Sly’s recent frustrations. It’s a love letter to ’80s action excess and the man who made green berets cool again.

Ryan and Sean (host of the Dolph Lundgren career-deep-dive podcast *I Must Break This*) continue Season 2 with the explosive sequel that turned John Rambo from troubled vet into the ultimate one-man army.The guys go scene-by-scene through Rambo’s mission briefing, the legendary “suiting-up” montage, the botched parachute drop, and the moment the movie fully unleashes the larger-than-life Rambo we all grew up worshipping.Whether you’re here for the muscle porn, the bureaucracy-busting rage, or just nostalgia for when action heroes were our real-life superheroes, this episode is 80s action comfort food with detailed commentary.

In the season two premiere of the "It's a Long Road: The Rambo Series" podcast, host Ryan welcomes guest Jack from the "Drunk Bond" podcast to dissect Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), kicking off with lighthearted banter about podcasting compliments, the hosts' shared love for Sylvester Stallone's Rocky and Rambo franchises, and Jack's irreverent yet respectful breakdowns of action classics. They dive into the film's explosive opening, Rambo's prison labor release by Colonel Trautman for a covert Vietnam recon mission to photograph POWs, and early character introductions, while riffing on confusing franchise titles, Stallone's peak physique, box office inflation ($750–800 million in today's dollars), screenplay credits (Stallone, James Cameron, Kevin Jarre), and director George P. Cosmatos's hands-off approach amid Sly's 1980s superstardom—celebrating the sequel's over-the-top action shift from the original's dramatic depth as a fun, nostalgic 1980s beast.

Ryan teams up with guest co-hosts Tim and Tony from the Round 14 Podcast—dedicated enthusiasts of Sylvester Stallone's iconic Rocky saga—for a high-octane breakdown of the film's climactic church standoff, Rambo's raw emotional monologue, and the cathartic resolution between the tormented veteran and a sympathetic yet beleaguered Sheriff Teasle. Blending sharp analysis of Brian Dennehy's standout performance as Teasle, Richard Crenna's paternal gravitas as Colonel Trautman, and Stallone's understated vulnerability that elevates the anti-hero from feral survivor to tragic everyman, the trio delves into the film's anti-war themes, practical stunts like the harrowing helicopter crash, and Jerry Goldsmith's pulsating score that underscores Rambo's descent into PTSD-fueled rage. Peppered with Round 14's signature banter on Stallone's chiseled '80s physique, crossovers between Rambo's grit and Rocky's resilience, and lighthearted asides on Vietnam-era politics, the episode wraps the inaugural film with heartfelt reflections on its enduring legacy as a grounded action blueprint, teasing future dives into the bombastic sequels.

Ryan welcomes Bob and Zip from the "No Redeeming Qualities" podcast to dissect a key action sequence from First Blood (1982), where John Rambo escapes a mine shaft, hijacks a National Guard truck, and unleashes chaos on a small town through daring stunts, explosions, and pursuits, all while the hosts intersperse humorous tangents on Stallone's physique, the book's darker violence, Italian heritage, and podcast crossovers.

In another Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network crossover, hosts Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance, Craig Cohen of Slycast, and Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute reluctantly dissect The Expendables 4 (aka Expend4bles, 2023), Scott Waugh's underwhelming R-rated swan song that squanders a $100M budget on PlayStation 2-level CGI boats, forgettable ship-bound climax, and charisma-vacuum newcomers like Megan Fox's abrasive Gina and 50 Cent's placeholder Easy Day. The trio mourns the franchise's faded glory—praising Jason Statham's elevated Lee Christmas lead, Tony Jaa's disciplined fighter, and fleeting OG chemistry with Stallone's four-day cameo and Dolph Lundgren's aged Gunner—while eviscerating phoned-in villains (Iko Uwais' Rahmat, Andy Garcia's Ocelot), choppy AI-like banter, zero stakes, and passionless filmmaking that prioritizes F-bombs over practical '80s-style explosions, deeming it a fine-but-forgettable misfire that killed the series despite meta nods and martial arts flair.

In a rollicking Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network crossover, hosts Craig Cohen of Slycast, Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute, and Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance team up to eviscerate and occasionally defend The Expendables 3 (2014), Patrick Hughes' PG-13 pivot that swaps brutal R-rated gore for broader appeal, introducing fresh blood like Wesley Snipes' Doc, Antonio Banderas' chatterbox Galgo, and Harrison Ford's gruff Church replacement while benching Bruce Willis amid salary disputes. The panel raves over Mel Gibson's magnetic Conrad Stonebanks as a betrayed co-founder turned arms-dealing menace, Snipes' tax-evasion quips and knife flair, and Banderas' scene-stealing energy, but lambasts the toned-down violence, convoluted Somalia skyscraper finale, forgettable young recruits (Ronda Rousey, Kellan Lutz), and Stallone's directorial absence, ultimately deeming it a flawed yet watchable franchise low with standout villainy and meta nods that still honors '80s excess despite corporate meddling.

In a high-octane crossover episode from the Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network, hosts Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance, Craig Cohen of Slycast, and Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute reunite to dissect The Expendables 2 (2012), the Simon West-directed sequel that amps up the '80s action homage with relentless set pieces, meta quips, and an all-star mercenary ensemble led by Stallone's Barney Ross. The trio celebrates the film's non-stop gunfire, explosive Nepal rescue opener, and villainous tour-de-force by Jean-Claude Van Damme as Vilain, while critiquing tonal shifts toward goofiness, underdeveloped newbies like Liam Hemsworth's Billy, and scheduling quirks that sidelined Jet Li; they laud Van Damme's scene-stealing improv, Jason Statham's priest-disguised brawls, and cameos from Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, and a meme-spouting Chuck Norris, ultimately hailing it as a fun, fan-service thrill ride that grossed $300 million despite minor script flaws in dialogue and realism.

In a thrilling crossover installment of the Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network, veteran hosts Craig Cohen of Slycast, Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute, and Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance converge to unpack the explosive 2010 action opus The Expendables, Stallone's directorial homage to '80s muscle-bound cinema. The trio dissects the high-stakes tale of a ragtag team of mercenaries—led by Stallone's battle-hardened Barney Ross—tackling a tyrannical dictator on a remote island, praising the film's relentless gunfire, machete-wielding mayhem, and star power from Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, and cameos by icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis, while sharing laughs over production lore, character arcs, and why this testosterone-fueled ensemble piece endures as a guilty pleasure for genre aficionados despite its formulaic flair.

In this episode of "One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast," host Ryan, joined by co-host Katie (with Kyle absent due to an unforeseen event), dives into the Rocky franchise with a focus on a heartfelt scene where Adrian tends to Rocky’s injuries after his meat-punching training, while also addressing recent developments in Sylvester Stallone’s life, including his new film Samaritan and personal struggles. The hosts discuss listener emails, including a Samaritan review from Donald and a note from Doug about the filming of Rocky’s iconic stair-running scenes, highlighting Stallone’s acting range. They analyze the emotional nuances of Rocky and Adrian’s relationship, the cultural context of 1970s boxing myths, and engage with their Discord community, blending humor, trivia, and deep insights into Rocky’s enduring appeal and Stallone’s real-life parallels.

In this episode of "One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast," host Ryan reunites with co-hosts Katie and Kyle to discuss Sylvester Stallone’s recent personal and professional developments, including his divorce from Jennifer Flavin after 25 years and his new film, Samaritan. The trio reflects on the emotional weight of Stallone’s divorce, wishing both parties well, and speculates on how personal stress may have fueled his public disputes with producer Irwin Winkler. They dive into a pivotal scene from Rocky where Rocky trains at Paulie’s meat factory, analyzing the tension between Rocky and Paulie, the latter’s alcoholism, and the iconic meat-punching moment that underscores Rocky’s vulnerability and determination. Engaging with Discord listeners and tackling Rocky trivia, the hosts blend humor, personal anecdotes, and deep analysis, drawing parallels between Stallone’s life and Rocky’s struggles, while celebrating the film’s enduring cinematic impact.

In this episode of "One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast," host Ryan, joined by regular co-host Kyle and guest host Doug, replacing Katie, delivers a heartfelt exploration of the Rocky franchise, focusing on a pivotal scene where Mickey visits Rocky’s apartment to offer his managerial expertise. The episode kicks off with humorous banter about Katie’s absence and Doug’s introduction as the host of "Rocky Minute," a podcast dissecting Rocky films minute-by-minute. Ryan reads an email from Doug himself, highlighting the symbolic Italian flag colors in a gym scene and Jurgens’ antagonistic role, sparking a discussion on the film’s themes of opportunity and manipulation. The hosts dive into Rocky’s emotional confrontation with Mickey, analyzing its authenticity and parallels to Sylvester Stallone’s real-life struggles, while engaging with Discord listeners and tackling challenging Rocky trivia, blending fandom, humor, and deep cinematic analysis.

In this episode of "One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast," host Ryan, joined by co-host Katie and guest Jared Tockstein, delves into the Rocky franchise with a mix of humor, fan interaction, and deep analysis. The episode kicks off with introductions, spotlighting Jared’s podcasting credentials and his prior collaborations with Ryan on other shows within the network. Ryan addresses recent developments in Sylvester Stallone’s ongoing feud with producer Irwin Winkler, clarifying a misunderstanding with another YouTuber, Viking Samurai, over shared insider information about the Rocky franchise and Creed 3’s storyline. The hosts discuss a listener email from filmmaker Simon Drake, whose work was inspired by Rocky’s cinematography, and analyze a pivotal scene where Rocky is offered a life-changing fight against Apollo Creed. The episode blends trivia, Discord engagement, and reflections on Rocky’s emotional depth, particularly his vulnerability and relationship with Adrian, offering fans a rich exploration of the film’s themes and Stallone’s real-life parallels.

In this episode of "One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast," host Ryan, along with co-hosts Katie and Kyle, dive into a passionate discussion about the Rocky franchise, focusing on Sylvester Stallone's ongoing disputes with producer Irwin Winkler over the rights to the Rocky series. The episode begins with Ryan addressing a recording mishap and providing a disclaimer about insider information regarding Stallone’s lack of control over the franchise, particularly highlighting tensions surrounding a new Drago spin-off series. The hosts explore Stallone’s public frustrations, the Winkler family’s control, and the broader implications for the Rocky legacy, weaving in personal anecdotes, listener interactions via Discord, and trivia about the Rocky films. The conversation balances fandom with critical analysis, drawing parallels between Stallone’s real-life struggles and Rocky Balboa’s narrative, while also celebrating the cultural impact of the series and its relevance to themes of opportunity and legacy.