Rocky vs Rambo

A little over a year ago, I was contacted by Jake Kalish. He said that he was writing a book about imaginary fights and was looking for expert opinions. Jake wanted me to weigh in on the Rocky vs Rambo fight. So I did. Jake recently contacted me to let me know that a copy of the book, Santa vs Satan: The Official Compendium of Imaginary Fights would be coming my way and that a link to the StalloneZone was printed along with my commentary. Here's how I saw the fight:

• "Rocky Balboa vs John Rambo. Its the battle of the ages (and no, not because they're, at this point, no longer spring chickens). Sylvester Stallone is brought in as the guest ref. There will be no judges as this is a fight to the finish. Rambo starts out fast and takes an early lead as he gives Rocky a beating that would kill most men... BUT... Rocky... never quits. In the later rounds Rocky made a comeback and looks to have Rambo beat. After twelve grueling rounds with both men bloody and bruised, Sylvester Stallone, in a SLY (groan) move, calls the fight a draw." - Craig Zablo

How did the other experts see the fight? Ari Voukydis went with Rocky in an upset, Graham Thompson said it was Rambo in an easy win, and Roger Barr gave the nod to Rambo. Jake Kalish says Rambo wins via split decision.

If you're wondering about the other fights in the book, there are some imaginative ones: Muhammad Ali vs Bruce Lee, Han Solo vs Indiana Jones, Donald Duck vs Daffy Duck, Michael Corleone vs Tony Montana, My Dad vs Your Dad, Captain Crunch vs Tony the Tiger. Each fight has expert opinions and then Jake gives us the "official" fight commentary and results.

The book reminds me of junior high kids wasting an afternoon deciding "who would win if..." [Not that there's anything wrong with that.] I do have to caution that sometimes the humor crosses the line of good taste, but if you can get past a few, "I can't believe he wrote that moments" you'll find plenty of chuckles as you drift back to junior high and think about "who would win if..." - Craig

Rocky vs Rambo

On January 23, 2008, Cole Haddon profiled Sly and his work on bringing Rocky and Rambo back to the big screen. In the piece Sly talks about his debate with Quentin Tarantino in regard to the artistic choice to not kill off Rambo, how vanity got in the way of earlier movies, and how age has added a certain weight and responsibility to Rocky and Rambo. The piece is definitely worth a look. - Craig

Rocky Gets Grand Visual Treatment

Earlier this week I received the following e-mail:

Hi Craig,

Wonderful site!

Thought you might like this, we did it to promote the release of Rocky Balboa and it was really popular with Rocky fans everywhere – including us!

Best Regards,

Sabeena Love
Strategist
Grand Visual
-----

Thanks Sabeena for the kind words and the link. You guys did a great job in picking a perfect scene! - Craig

Rocky, Bruce Lee, Tarzan and More

Here is an article about statues of pop icons such as Rocky Balboa, Bruce Lee, Tarzan and others are being erected across the war-torn Balkans. - Craig

Belgrade Rocky Statue

A huge statue of the film character Rocky Balboa is prepared for unveiling in the village square in Zitiste, about 60 kilometers (36 miles) north of Belgrade, Tuesday, Aug.7, 2007. The village of Zitiste is planning to erect the statue of Balboa, to attract tourists and show a new face to the world. Local officials have already contacted Philadelphia, PA, where a monument to the actor Sylvester Stallone's film character already exists. The unveiling is scheduled for August 18. (AP Photo/Srdjan Ilic)

Workers cover with plastic sheets a statue of the film character Rocky Balboa, which is being prepared for unveiling in the village square in Zitiste, about 60 kilometers (36 miles) north of Belgrade, Tuesday, Aug.7, 2007. The village of Zitiste is planning to erect the statue of Balboa, to attract tourists and show a new face to the world. Local officials have already contacted Philadelphia, PA, where a monument to the actor Sylvester Stallone's film character already exists. The unveiling is scheduled for August 18. (AP Photo/Srdjan Ilic)

Workers secure with ropes the statue of the Rocky Balboa film character, which is set for unveiling in the village square in Zitiste, about 60 kilometers (36 miles) north of Belgrade, Tuesday, Aug.7, 2007. The village of Zitiste is planning to erect the statue of Balboa, to attract tourists and show a new face to the world. Local officials have already contacted Philadelphia, PA, where a monument to the actor Sylvester Stallone's film character already exists. The unveiling is scheduled for August 18. (AP Photo/Srdjan Ilic)

SZ Exclusive: Sly @ London Premiere

SZoner, Darren Cage checked in from the London Premiere of "Rocky Balboa" with these pics and comments:

I was in london for the rocky premiere last night and i would like to point out that stallone was a pleasing figure with the well turned out crowd he took the time to sign for people and didn't rush top bloke made a real effort and gave my son a memory he wont forget. some pics for you. i will try and send some of my own shortly
Regards
Darren Cage

Thanks to Darren for sharrin' - Craig

Update on "Rocky Balboa" Collector Cards

Miguel checked in with this update on the "Rocky Balboa" Trading Cards:

Hello Craig! Hope your New Year is off to a great start. Congratulations on the sharp new look to the Stallonezone website--the updated photos of Sly's world tour are awesome!

I wanted to let you and fellow SZoners know that we (MIGBIZ) will be at the FX Convention in Orlando, FL this Jan 26-28th booth #526. Come by and check out the full Rocky Balboa trading card set along with many cool surprises!

We have also produced a Limited Edition promotional Rocky Balboa trading card that will be given out by the FX staff while they last!!

Look forward to seeing all of you there. Keep up the great work! Miguel A. Insignares MIG.BIZ,LLC

__________

Great to hear from Mig! I'll be at FX and will get pics and a full report. For more details check out

his website. - Craig

SZoners Promote "Rocky Balboa"

SZoner, Ernest "Jazzman" Resendes sent in the picture above and the message below:

Hey guys,

A local paper just did a piece on our whole Vegas/Boston Q&A experience. Writer Rick Snizek was doing a story on a local musician who just happened to be my buddy Bob's uncle. Bob mentioned the unbelievable RB experience and Rick immediately wanted to do a story.

Here's the pic they used and some excerpts. The photo was taken at the end pf our last day on the set as we were leaving. Sly is between us in the far distance looking over fight footage with Frank and the crew.

BRUSH WITH FAME
City natives share screen time with Stallone By Rick Snizek

"We all have obstacles to overcome," Resendes says, noting how much a labor of love the film, which took in more than $51 million at the box office in its first two weeks alone, was for Stallone. He made this picture on a comparatively shoestring budget of $24 million, with Hollywood uncertain of how Rocky Balboa's saga would play to a new generation.

"It's defied a lot of people's expectations," Resendes adds, feeling that Stallone's intended soulful approach to living one's life resonates with audiences young and old. In one scene in the movie, unfortunately one that did land on the cutting room floor, Resendes actually rushes out of his seat at the end of the bout thrusting both hands into the air in victory to congratulate the champ as he makes his way from the ring.

Although the pair came in very close proximity to Stallone during the filming, they didn't get a chance to speak to him about their admiration for his work. But little did they know at the time that such an opportunity would present itself before the film would be released.

The experience was indeed a dream come true for Resendes and Manuels, one which they say has inspired them to push even harder to achieve their goals in life.

__________

Thanks to Jazz for sharing! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Sly in Spain!

SZoner, Juan Mogica, from Madrid, Spain checked in with these exclusive pics of Sly taken Monday, January 8, 2007 when Sly was in Madrid promoting "Rocky Balboa." In addition to being a huge Stallone/Rocky fan, Juan is a songwriter/producer, and if you want to take check out his website you can at: www.juanmogica.com.





Before we close, Juan included a photo of his A. Thomas Shomberg "Rocky" statue. Here's what Juan had to say about it: "I just receive today my 12 inches Rocky statue, and I ordered it only two days ago!! Incredible!"

I couldn't agree more about the statue! Thanks for sharing your pictures! - Craig

SZone Exclusive: More Philly Photos!

SZoner, Bridget is back with more exclusive photographs of Sly and Burt Young at the Philly Premiere of "Rocky Balboa." - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Rocky vs Dixon

SZoner, Bridget is back with more behind the scenes photos from the Vegas filming!

Thanks to Bridget for sharing! - Craig

Empire's Review of "Rocky Balboa"

SZoner, Brett Dexter, sent in a copy of Empire magazine's review of "Rocky Balboa." Overall they gave it a three star rating and seemed to really like it despite the fact that they really didn't want to... Here are some excerpts:

* "Rocky Balboa"... pulls off the unique cinematic feat of being totally terrible and completely brillant at the same time.

* There have been no "Casino Royale" style re-inventions here but, in some senses, this is equally smart.

* Completely understanding the level on which the movie needs to work, "Rocky Balboa" is bold, broad and magnificently big-hearted.

* Stallone clearly loves his character and knows that we feel the same. As a director he is not afraid to commit to the material... as an actor he has an inate dignity and hangdog charm that can make the corniest dialogue palatable...

* And the final showdown with Mason Dixon [Antonio Tarver], with its full-bloodied, hyper-real, toe-to-toe pugilism is up there with the Apollo Creed/Clubber Lang fight nights of old.

- Craig Zablo

SZ Exclusive: Vegas Photos!

SZoner, Bridget is back with more exclusive photos. This time she has behind-the-scene shots of the "Rocky Balboa" filming in Vegas.

Here's a cool shot of Sly and Antonio Tarver locking up. You can catch a glimpse of Bridget in the left side of the shot!


Sly and Antonio are still going at it. Yep, Bridget is still cheering!


Frank Stallone films some shots of the crowd as the crew gets ready for another shot.


SZoners, led by Bridget are there representing!

SZone Exclusive: Philly Photos!

SZoner, Bridget checked in with photos from her trip to the Philly premiere of "Rocky Balboa." Sly waved to his fans as he headed into the crowded theater!

Sly and his girls!

Frank was also there!


Burt Young!


Milo was interviewed by Santa!


What a year Milo is having... "Rocky Balboa" and Heroes!

SZoners, Bridget and Adnuk with friends!


SZoners unite to see the Philly Premiere!

SZ Exclusive: Philly Pics

SZoner, Bridget2495 checked in with some exclusive photos from the Philly premiere! Here is the first set of pics of Sly and his girls! Thanks to Bridget for sharing! - Craig

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 4

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone , right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 1:08 PM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 3

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone , right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 1:07 PM

Sly in London

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 12:58 PM

Sly Triumphant

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 12:57 PM

Sly Autographs

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone signs autographs as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 7:10 AM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 2

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 7:10 AM

Sly & Lisa Snowden 2

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:59 AM

Sly Kiss

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone blows a kiss as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:36 AM

Sly & Lisa Snowden

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:53 AM

Sly @ UK Premiere

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone signs autographs as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:36 AM

Sly Arrives

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:24 AM

Sly Signs

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone, right, signs autographs for his fans as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 2:13 PM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone, right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 1:08 PM

Sly Poses

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden, right, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 12:57 PM

Sly Shows

US movie star Sylvester Stallone shows boxing shorts that will be on display at the Planet Hollywood restaurant in Paris, Monday Jan. 15, 2007. Sylvester Stallone is in Paris to promote the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa', that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 15 11:13 AM

Sly Points

US movie star Sylvester Stallone makes a point as he addresses reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 10 minutes ago

Sly Gestures

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he addresses reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly Winks

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he arrives at a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly Gestures

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he answers reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 11 minutes ago

Sly Salutes

US movie star Sylvester Stallone waves to reporters at the end of a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 10 minutes ago

Sly Waves

US movie star Sylvester Stallone waves to reporters at the start of a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly On

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone on the pitch before Everton's match against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 9:04 AM

Sly Holds

American actor Sylvester Stallone, center, holds his head in his hands as Everton miss a chance against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 8:50 AM

Sly Waves

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone waves as he leaves the pitch before Everton's match against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 8:39 AM

Sly Walks

US actor Sylvester Stallone walks across the pitch holding an Everton scarf before the Everton vs. Reading Premiership football match at Goodison Park, Liverpool. Stallone believes David Beckham will be a major success in the United States when he joins the LA Galaxy next year. Photo:Paul Ellis/AFP
AFP via Yahoo! Canada News - 16 minutes ago

Sly Greets

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone greets supporters before the start of the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 41 minutes ago

Sly Greeted

Sylvester Stallone is greeted by spectators as he arrives to watch the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 1 hour, 26 minutes ago

Sly in England!

Sylvester Stallone arrives to watch the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 1 hour, 30 minutes ago

"Rocky Balboa" Round 1 in Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 9:59 PM

Looking Hazardous

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:05 PM

Feeling Strong

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:08 PM

Sly Flexes for Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:06 PM

Dukes Up in Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:32 PM

Sly in Germany!

US actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a photocall for his new film 'Rocky Balboa' in Cologne, Germany, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Hermann J. Knippertz)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 11 3:07 AM

Sly Arrives in Rome

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone arrives at the Italian premiere of his movie "Rocky Balboa", in Rome, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2007. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Sly Approached

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) is approached by a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Flanked by Guards

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (C) is flanked by bodyguards while walking in a shopping district of central Rome January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Poses Too

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Poses

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Smiles

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone smiles at the Italian premiere of his movie "Rocky Balboa", in Rome, Tuesday, Jan. (AP/ANDREW MEDICHINI)

Craig's Rocky Statue

Over the years I've picked up quite a few cool Stallone-related items for my personal collection. When I graduated college my wife bought me the LeRoy Neiman "Rocky" print. I have a personalized autographed picture from Sly. I have the rare Franklin Mint Rocky statue. I have original art from some of my favorite artists doing their take on Sly. Over the Christmas holiday I received a new addition to my collection that I'm still in awe of. It's my A. Thomas Schomberg "Rocky" replica statue!

As most SZoners know, Mr. Schomberg was the artist who created the original Rocky statue that was used in "Rocky III." Sly personally chose Mr. Schomberg after seeing [and purchasing] some of his work. Over the years Mr. Schomberg had been approached about releasing a Rocky collector statue, but the deals were never quite right. Mr. Schomberg wanted to insure two things: 1] That the statues were quality pieces and 2] There would be a version affordable by all fans! This past year everything came together... the 30th anniversary of "Rocky"... Sly writing, directing and starring in the final chapter of "Rocky Balboa" and MGM teaming with Sly and Mr. Schomberg to release three versions of the Rocky statues... all of them quality pieces and one for every price range!

I couldn't wait for mine to arrive. I was worried that it might get damaged in transit [but more importantly, I justed want to HAVE it!]. As you can see from the packaging, I shouldn't have worried. It was securely packed, boxed, bagged and surrounded by styrofoam. It arrived in pristine condition.

And what a thing of beauty! The photos here [and on Mr. Schomberg's website] really can't do the statue justice. Perhaps it's because the statue is so well done and the photo can't truly capture the little details that the 3-dimensional sculpture has. Or maybe it's the fact that the statue symbolizes everything that we admire in Rocky Balboa. Either way, I know that it brings a smile to my face every time I look at it and it will be the cornerstone of my collection for a long time to come.

Several SZoners said that they were planing to get a statue. If you did, please feel free to send me a photo and I'll post it on the site. It'll be interesting to see just how many places and how far Rocky has traveled around the world! And if you haven't got yours yet, you still can. Just click HERE and tell 'em the SZ sent ya! - Craig

Gerardo Moreno" "No Easy Way Out"

SZoner, Gerardo Moreno checked in with his latest digital poster. It's a cool design for "Rocky Balboa." Gerardo keeps smacking homeruns! - Craig

People: Sly's Life in Pictures

The January 15, 2007 issue of People features Sly in the "My Life in Pictures" section. The article consists of 3 pages [the first pictured above] and nine photos. Here are a couple of quotes from Sly:

• Why didn't his son, Sage, play his son in Rocky Balboa? "It would have been a little too personal... I wanted to keep the psychodrama at home."
  
• "Things really started to slow down for me about ten years ago, and I had a lot of time for introspection. You look back and it's kind of bittersweet. That is why I wanted to write this film ["Rocky Balboa"]. If I had been cranking out films, very successful ones, I wouldn't have done this one."

The People issue is on newstands now. - Craig Zablo

Sly in Mexico

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico promoting his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero (MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:56 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico to promote his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero(MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:49 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico promoting his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero (MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:59 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a press conference to promote his latest Rocky VI movie in Mexico City, Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo) AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 4:06 PM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a press conference to promote his latest Rocky VI movie in Mexico City, Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 4:11 PM

Sly Says Boxing Has Image Problem

Boxing has image problem, says "Rocky" Stallone By Catherine Bremer

Boxing today is suffering from an image problem, "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone said on Thursday, as he visited Mexico to promote the fictional fighter's return to the ring in a new film sequel.

"It's a horrible image. It's worse now," he said when asked about the damage done to the sport by bad-boy fighters like convicted rapist and ear-biter Mike Tyson and a scarcity of world-class fighters and out-sized personalities like boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

"I don't know if it's just bad management or whatever, or the cream is not rising to the top, but you'd have to think that boxing is a reflection of the promoters," Stallone said.

Aged 60, but retaining his muscular body, Stallone defied critics by bringing his much-loved character Rocky Balboa out of retirement for a sixth Rocky movie, titled simply "Rocky Balboa," 30 years after the first one became an international hit.

"I wanted to create an awareness for boxing again because it had gone downhill a little bit," he told a media briefing.

Heavyweight boxing has been in decline for years. One reason fewer young athletes may be taking it up is that critics complain the sport can cause devastating brain damage.

Stallone's original 1976 movie tells of a lovable small-time boxer in Philadelphia dubbed "The Italian Stallion" who, in one of Hollywood's favorite underdog stories, gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to prove himself by fighting a heavyweight champ.

It became a surprise smash hit, winning an Oscar for best film and making Stallone, who wrote the story and played the lead, a star. Four other Rocky movies followed before Stallone set aside the character for a spell.

ONE LAST FIGHT

In the sixth film -- which uses a retired fighter as Rocky's young opponent and real fans for the crowd -- an aging Rocky decides he has enough punch left for one last fight. He ends up in the ring with the reigning heavyweight champ.

Next to some of today's gentler movie heroes, the scenes of sweat-drenched brutes thumping each other as the crowd chants "Rocky!" are a flashback to the late 1970s and 1980s.

But it's not about thoughtless aggression, Stallone said.

"Rocky Balboa" is a mature film aimed at people his age who can empathize with Rocky's need to purge himself of old demons.

"Yes it's brutal, but you know that they're going in there on an even pace. It's not a strong man attacking a stranger," he said of boxing in general, which he admits his wife hates.

And for fans of the first film who have taken a few of life's lessons on the chin over the years, Rocky represents an everyday guy and his opponent represents life, he said.

"Life is stronger than us. It beats on you and you fight back and you get knocked out and at the end you're bloody but still standing. That's really the relevance of this movie."

Stallone is also working on a comeback sequel of his other 1980s hulk-like character "Rambo."




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Great Interview with "Rocky Balboa" Editor

PostMagazine.com is currently running a great interview with Sean Anderson editor of "Rocky Balboa." Here's just a taste of what Mr. Anderson had to say:

• "Once I knew what Sly's intention was for this final chapter, I had absolutely no reservations. To edit the film that he wanted to make was a chance for me to touch history."
  
• "The film shot for about eight weeks. We had a two-week editor's cut in the schedule, which actually never happened. Sly was in the cutting room the day after he finished shooting."
  
• "It was not lost on me that I was now sitting in a room with an American icon that I grew up watching on the big screen."

Sean Anderson talks about the editing process [it's especially interesting how they dealt with an emotional scene which defined Paulie's character arc and changed the tone of the movie], his admiration for Sylvester Stallone and why he felt compelled to join the "Rocky Balboa" team. Click HERE for the full interview. - Craig Zablo

Chuck Wepner: Real-Life Rocky

Robert Mladinich has an interesting profile/interview with Chuck Wepner over at TheSweetScience.com. As most SZoners know, it was Wepner's fight against Muhammad Ali that provided Sly with the spark to create Rocky. Last year, as Sly was prepping "Rocky Balboa," Wepner filed suit against Sly and MGM. The case was settled out of court.

So what did Wepner think of "Rocky Balboa"? “I wasn’t disappointed at all,” Wepner is quoted as saying, “The first movie was a masterpiece. This one was pretty close.”

For the full story click HERE. - Craig Zablo

Three US Weekly Tidbits

The January 8, 2007 issue of US magazine has three tidbits about Sly.

The first features Sly and Brandon Davis in the "Look-Alike of the Week" feature. Both are shown in small photos with the caption: "Should Brandon Davis have played Rocky Balboa's son instead of Milo Ventimiglia?"

The second time Sly appears is in the "Loose Talk: What Stars Said This Week" section. "I have two beautiful daughters... I'd try to get them to watch one of the Rocky movies and they'd go, 'I want to watch SpongeBob Squarepaints.'" - Sylvester Stallone [Craig -- Sly has 3 daughters!]

The third tidbit features a brief profile of Milo Ventimiglia who says that at first producers didn't want him for the role of Rocky's son despite the fact that he looks like Sly! - Craig Zablo

US Stallone Trifecta!

The January 1, 2007 issue of US magazine features three articles of interest to all Sly fans.
The first piece [accompained by the photo above] briefly touches on the alleged feud between Sly and Richard Gere.

The second piece is a one page spread covering the "Rocky Balboa" premiere. Of course the shot of Sly and Bruce Willis just cries out for a project that teams the two superstars.

The third item of interest is US magazine's review of "Rocky Balboa."They give it three out of four stars and conclude with: "This Rocky's a knockout!"

-Craig Zablo

"Rocky Balboa": Best of the Year

BlogCritics Magazine puts "Rocky Balboa" on the best of the year list: Here's what they have to say: "Rocky Balboa - Real life drama and Stallone’s persona come out a winner in this final installment, which redeems the series from the previous disappointment Rocky V."

"Rocky Balboa" No Underdog

Writer, director and cast member Sylvester Stallone attends the world premiere of 'Rocky Balboa' at the Chinese theater in Hollywood, California December 13, 2006. 'Rocky Balboa' proved no underdog during its first day at the North American box office, according to sales data issued Thursday. (Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Dec 25 1:44 PM

Sly at "Rocky Balboa" Party

Sylvester Stallone at a party following the Las Vegas premiere of the movie "Rocky Balboa" 19 December. Rocky Balboa, John McClane and now Indiana Jones: Hollywood is going back to the future by resurrecting several much-loved characters despite the advancing years of the actors who made them legends. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Ethan Miller)
AFP/Getty Images/File via Yahoo! News - Jan 03 12:15 AM

Hollywood Goes Back to the Future

Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone at the premiere of "Rocky Balboa" 13 December, in Hollywood. Rocky Balboa, John McClane and now Indiana Jones. Hollywood is going back to the future by resurrecting several much-loved characters despite the advancing years of the actors who made them legends. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Frazer Harrison)

AFP/Getty Images/File via Yahoo! News - Jan 03 12:42 AM