Biopic 'I Play Rocky' Chronicles Stallone's Fight for His Iconic Role

The upcoming biographical drama I Play Rocky, set for a November release in Australian cinemas, retells Sylvester Stallone's struggle to bring his 1976 screenplay Rocky to the screen. Stallone refused lucrative offers to sell the script unless he could also portray the title character, betting his career and finances on a role he believed only he could play. The film, directed by Oscar‑winner Peter Farrelly, showcases this underdog narrative that led to the original Rocky becoming a cultural phenomenon, earning about US$1.9 billion worldwide and winning three Academy Awards.

Anthony Ippolito stars as a young Stallone, recreating his distinctive voice, mannerisms and physique. Ippolito secured the role after submitting an unsolicited audition tape, mirroring Stallone's own persistence. His physical transformation to match the muscular look of the famed boxer has drawn praise from fans, and the first trailer offers a closer look at the film’s recreation of Hollywood’s iconic moment.