*Anthony Ippolito will step into Sylvester Stallone’s shoes in “I Play Rocky,” a new film exploring the gamble behind one of Hollywood’s most famous underdog stories.
Directed by Peter Farrelly, “I Play Rocky” follows Stallone before fame transformed his career. The struggling actor had written “Rocky,” but getting the screenplay made was only part of his goal. Stallone was determined to portray boxer Rocky Balboa himself, even as he faced resistance to the idea of an unknown actor leading the movie.
Rather than surrender the role to secure a deal, Stallone remained committed to starring in his own screenplay. That decision and the risks surrounding it form the heart of the upcoming film. The bet ultimately changed his career.
Released in 1976, “Rocky” became a major box-office success and won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Stallone received Oscar nominations for both his performance and screenplay. The movie also launched a franchise that continued through multiple “Rocky” sequels before expanding with the “Creed” films.
Scroll to continue reading
Ippolito previously portrayed another Hollywood heavyweight when he played a young Al Pacino in Paramount+’s “The Offer,” a limited series about the making of “The Godfather.” His credits also include Netflix’s “Purple Hearts.”
The “I Play Rocky” ensemble includes Matt Dillon, AnnaSophia Robb, P.J. Byrne, Toby Kebbell, Tracy Letts, Jay Duplass, Stephan James and Kiki Seto.
Peter Gamble wrote the screenplay. Farrelly also produces alongside Christian Baha, Toby Emmerich and Paul Currie.
“I Play Rocky” arrives in select theaters Nov. 6, with its nationwide theatrical release scheduled for later in November. Watch the official trailer below.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Sylvester Stallone’s ‘Tulsa King’ Season 3 Trailer Promises High-Stakes Drama
We Publish Breaking News 24/7. Don’t Miss Out! Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
