News & Stories

“Rocky” Opens to Overwhelming Response from Church Leaders

December 27, 2006

Excerpted from Religion News Service 
     In a movie that some are calling a powerful allegory of faith, Sylvester Stallone returns as Rocky Balboa for the sixth and final episode of the “Rocky” series, telling the uncompromising story of victory and “fighting the good fight.” The wholesome, family-friendly film (rated PG) was released December 21 in theaters nationwide. “As someone who [did] not expect ‘Rocky Balboa’ to be heralded as a Christian film, I have to confess I was won over by the real-life story of redemption I heard,” said Stuart Shepard, managing editor of Focus on the Family’s Citizenlink.com 
     Like its predecessors, “Rocky Balboa” is a story of impossible odds, self sacrifice, integrity and hard work as the [title character] fights to let go of the past and believe in those who believe in him. Although Hollywood has recently taken note of values-based films that include elements of faith, the 30-year-old “Rocky” story displayed these concepts long before the media was paying attention. Today, Stallone brings back what has long been there in the heart of Rocky. “This one will hopefully bring forward Rocky’s more spiritual side,” Stallone says. “I really love this character, he’s a part of me, and I’m longing to bring him back.” 
     With faith and values being a rarity in Hollywood’s action films, “Rocky Balboa” breaks the mold as an inspirational, family-friendly experience that depicts a man who honorably answers the call on his life. As the retired Rocky returns to the ring with “something left to give” despite his aging body, [viewers] are urged to find the courage to fight [their] own personal struggles through perseverance, support and prayer. 
     Motive Entertainment, which has spearheaded the most significant faith-based marketing initiatives for Hollywood blockbusters, including “The Passion” and “The Chronicles of Narnia,” has turned its attention to “Rocky.” “As longstanding ‘Rocky’ fans, we thought it would be great to put together a selection of resources that faith and family leaders can use as preaching and teaching tools,” said Paul Lauer, president of Motive Entertainment. “‘Rocky Balboa’ is a beautiful film—one that all ‘Rocky’ fans should see, especially people of faith, because it’s a powerful parable of our spiritual lives—our victories, our falls and the importance of getting back up and persevering to the end.”