ROCKY BALBOA BLOG

"Rocky Balboa" - Own it now on DVD, PSP™ & Blu-ray™

2007-03-28T20:11:00.000-04:00

"Rocky Balboa" is NOW AVAILABLE in a variety of formats.

For DVD click HERE.
The dvd features: commentary by Sylvester Stallone; deleted scenes including an alternate ending; boxing bloopers, three featurettes ["Skill vs Will: The Making of Rocky Balbao"; "Reality in the Ring: Filming Rocky's Final Fight"; and "Virtual Champion: Creating the Computer Fight"] and more!

For Blu-ray™ click HERE

For PSP™ click HERE

Enjoy! - Craig

"Rocky Balboa" Available for Pre-Order

2007-02-25T12:29:00.000-05:00

"Rocky Balboa" will be released on March 19, 2007. It is now available for pre-order by clicking HERE.

The dvd will feature: commentary by Sylvester Stallone; deleted scenes including an alternate ending; boxing bloopers, three featurettes ["Skill vs Will: The Making of Rocky Balbao"; "Reality in the Ring: Filming Rocky's Final Fight"; and "Virtual Champion: Creating the Computer Fight"] and more! - Craig

"Rock On"

2006-12-31T00:14:00.000-05:00

As we get ready to enter a new year, I just wanted to thank all of the SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans [especially the SZoners, and you know who you are!] for the support that they’ve shown me since I took over the Rocky Balboa Blog. I also want to thank Sly, Frank, Sage, Kevin, Celeste, Amy, and Sandro for believing that a fan could get the job done and then helping him to do it.

Finally, I want to thank John Beatty at Big Shot Graphics for his invaluable assistance in making sure everything worked [and looked great]!

Sly gave us a great movie, let’s return the favor. Continue to support “Rocky Balboa” [see it again and take your family and friends – heck take your enemies!]. Don’t forget that Frank’s “Take You Back” is available on I-Tunes!

May the new year bring you everything that you’ve wished for and even a little bit more!
–Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

"It Ain't About How Hard You Hit"

2006-12-26T20:01:00.000-05:00

Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] is still standing after ten brutal rounds. Rocky's corner: Duke [TONY BURTON], Spider Rico [PEDRO LOVELL] and Rocky Jr. [MILO VENTIMIGLIA] know that their man has done the impossible... he stood toe-to-toe with the Heavyweight Champion of the World!

"Rocky Balboa," despite facing tough competition at the box office, is more than holding its own! The critics are nearly unanimous in their praise of the movie, many making special mention of Sly's work as writer, director and actor. It's a great time to be a SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fan!

The final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky is in theatres now! Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.
- Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this picture click HERE!

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

"Rocky Balboa" Shocks The World

2006-12-23T11:03:00.000-05:00

"Rocky Balboa" opened Wednesday with over $6 million at the box office. No one really expected it to do over $2 million. Sly said that fans made "an old lion roar proud" in an e-mail to Harry at Ain't It Cool News [where Sly just completed a marathon question and answer session with fans].

What's even more important is that "Rocky Balboa" is receiving rave reviews from nearly everyone! Ebert and Roeper gave it "two thumbs up", Rolling Stone gives it 3 1/2 out of 4 stars, The Hollywood Reporter, E!Online as well as reviewers all over the country are singing the praises of SYLVESTER STALLONE and "Rocky Balboa."

So grab your family and friends and head out to see it [again and again]! I know that I will!
-Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky is in theatres now! Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: Neil Leifer

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Are YOU the "Ultimate Rocky Fan?

2006-12-19T18:24:00.000-05:00

Are you the ultimate Rocky fan? Do you want to win a pair of boxing gloves autographed by SYLVESTER STALLONE? If you answered, "yes" to both of those questions, then I have the contest for you!

Click HERE for all contest rules. Oh yeah, guess who will be judging the contest! Yep, me! So get your entries in soon!
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Abs-solutely!

2006-12-18T23:58:00.000-05:00

Anyone who thought SYLVESTER STALLONE's age might be a factor against him returning to the ring for the final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise had their doubts crushed when he got into the ring. Sly trained hard and it shows. We're just two days away from the final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise which hits theaters Wednesday, December 20, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

And now as an added bonus, an interview question and answer from Sly!

QUESTION: Can you tell us about your decision to make Rocky a widower?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: In the beginning of this film, "Rocky Balboa," I thought if his life is still intact then you really don't have a, a launching pad, a starting off point. But, if the most precious thing is taken away from you and your stability is askew, your best years supposedly have come and gone and you're alone. Alone full of grief, full of rage, full of anger, you know, what do I do now? What's the last chapter of my life? There is your starting off point. And I think that people need a mountain to climb. And I also read about a few men who, you know, in their late 50s, who decided to climb the seven largest peaks in the world just to, you know, do it. Well this is literally going out and trying to find a mountain to climb, which is going to really change, not just his life, but the lives of the people around him.

Also be sure to check out Sly's answers to fan questions from around the world at Ain't It Cool News!

6 New "Rocky Balboa" CLIPS!

2006-12-15T13:12:00.000-05:00

Sneak peaks of "Rocky Balboa" are hitting all around the country! Postive reviews are rolling in and the premiere is next week! Life is great!! Here are some additional "Rocky Balboa" video clips!
-Craig Zablo

Rocky Meets Robert At Work - 1:24

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Rocky & Paulie At Ice Rink - 1:38

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Mason & Old Trainer - 1:10

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Convincing Rocky to fight Mason - 1:23

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Rocky & Marie: Fighters Fight - 1:11

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Ready to Train - 0:52

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Trading Old Pain For New Pain

2006-12-12T21:27:00.000-05:00

Mason "The Line" Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER] lands some "hurtin' bombs" of his own when he and Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] stand toe-to-toe fighting for much more than a title!
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

The final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 20, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

And now as an added bonus, an interview question and answer from Sly!

QUESTION: Did George Foreman have any influence on that decision that Rocky could still fight professionally?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: Well, that, George Foreman! George Foreman gives Rocky a great credibility. So does Larry Holmes, he's 53, or 54 fighting. There are a couple of fighters today living out. The oldest one is 58, I believe, Sol Mamby for real. So it's happened. They believe that Sonny Liston was almost 50 years old and fought Mohammed Ali and, you know, lied about it. But the point is as, as it's said in Rocky, "They just want to prove that the last thing to age is the heart." And this is just, you know, a symbolic gesture that when you're young at heart you're basically in the game.

Sly fans will also want to check out Round 11 of the great question and answer session that Sly is delivering each day at AIN'T IT COOL NEWS! Click HERE to get there!
-Craig Zablo

As Real As It Gets

2006-12-08T19:14:00.000-05:00

Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] takes a hard shot from Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER] when the final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres on December 20, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE. Sly and former light heavyweight champ, Antonio Tarver traded real blows in an effort to make Rocky's last fight his most realistic.
-Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

And now as an added bonus, an interview question and answer from Sly!

QUESTION: What motivated you to bring back Rocky for a final chapter?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: I just didn't like the way the last one ended. Truthfully I thought the last one it, it just wasn't over, you know, you think it's over, and you really go back and you rehash it in your own mind like an athlete. You go, "God, you know, maybe I just retired too soon. Maybe Rocky just retired too soon." And yeah, someone told him he had problems. He had health problems. He, he had a little brain damage, but he never even had a second opinion. He just automatically assumed it. We do have our ups and downs, and it was a down side of his life. But I think that the real affirmation of life is what comes after that? Do you come out of that valley or not, you know?

Sly fans will also want to check out the great questions and answers that Sly is delivering each day at AIN'T IT COOL NEWS! Click HERE to get there!
-Craig Zablo

Always in His Corner

2006-12-03T05:28:00.000-05:00

Paulie [BURT YOUNG] tries to offer Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] sage advice in between rounds when the final round of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres on December 20, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this picture click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

And now as an added bonus, some interview questions and answers from Sly!

QUESTION: Can you talk about the legacy of "Rocky" and the influence it's had.

SYLVESTER STALLONE: Well, you know, the legacy... I never thought would ever end up being a legacy. But I guess what has come out of it is that it's a pretty universal dream to, to try to rise up and take your best shot at life. And you may not totally be successful but at least you made an out, you've had the chance. You've had the opportunity and I think that's the biggest frustration a lot of people have in their own lives is never getting a shot, you know.

Toe to Toe

2006-11-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

Rocky (SYLVESTER STALLONE) and Mason Dixon (ANTONIO TARVER) battle from bell to bell standing toe to toe. Rocky Jr. (MILO VENTIMIGLIA) comes out to assist the ref as he attempts to separate these modern day gladiators as the round ends.
-Craig Zablo

The final chapter of the Academy Award-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Wednesday, December 20, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

And as an added bonus, here's another question for Sly!

Craig Zablo: Sly, how about a shout out to the SZoners?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: Hey SZoners, it's Sylvester Stallone!! Thank you very much. You're doing great, ya know. You're doing very good and I appreciate you hanging in there! Thanks.

Frank Stallone Checks In!

2006-11-24T16:24:00.000-05:00

Frank Stallone checked in with some candid photos that he took on the last day of shooting for "Rocky Balboa." He also passed along this:

Hey Craig:
Enjoy these candid photos I took on the set. "Take You Back" is starting to get airplay and with the support of the loyal Rocky fans maybe I have a hit again. It will start online Dec 5th on Itunes and all the other sites.Take care Craig.

As most SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans know, Frank has been supportive of the StalloneZone for years. He's one of the most talented and down-to-earth celebs you'd ever meet. I know that our support will mean a lot to Frank and send a strong message as to the popularity of "Rocky Balboa." Enjoy Frank's candid photos and be sure to request, download and purchase "Take You Back" when it premieres on December 5th!
-Craig Zablo

And as an added bonus, here's another question with Sly!

Craig Zablo: Is there a chance we'll ever see Hunter [novel written by James Byron Huggins specifically with Sly in mind as the lead character!] on the big screen?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: You're kidding. I remember Byron wrote Hunter and at that time I was just, you know, not having a good go. I was a little out of favor with Hollywood. So I couldn't, you know, green light anything. I'm glad you brought it up because I haven't seen that for a while. I, I'd like to yeah. I'd love to try to revisit that and see it. I remember he wrote it from scratch. He was a good ole boy Byron.

Own A Piece of the Rock

2006-11-19T12:55:00.000-05:00

Here's great news for "Rocky" and SYLVESTER STALLONE fans [and just in time for holiday gift giving]!! A. THOMAS SCHOMBERG, the creator of the original "Rocky" statue for the movie "Rocky III", and MGM studios, in celebration of the 30th anniversary of "Rocky", are teaming to produce miniature ROCKY sculptures for fans!

That's right, you too, can own a miniature "Rocky" sculpture as seen in the "Rocky" movies! They come in two sizes and a price range that can fit any budget! Click HERE to learn more!

I'm sure by now that most of SYLVESTER STALLONE / "Rocky Balboa" fans have seen the second trailer for "Rocky Balboa", but if you haven't click HERE and you will!

Click HERE for a link to a really cool "Rocky Balboa" resource site. Get the stuff you need to help spread the word!

Finally for today's update we have another question with Sly!

Enjoy!
-Craig Zablo

Craig Zablo: Do you ever consider revisiting "The Bodyguard" or "Maggie's Eyes" [two unproduced screenplays that Sly wrote]?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: Well, "The Bodyguard" could work. I don't know if it's right for me because, you know, you write it in a certain time in your life when you're thinking like that, so that may be a naiveté. I would revisit them to direct. But I'm spending a lot of time on Rambo right now. That, that's really an important film because I think that action films have somewhat gone out of favor or just gone out of style. Today it's more fantasy, more sci-fi, more colorful action characters. It's not so much flesh and blood. So I, I'd like to explore Rambo in a way that it's almost an homage to action films because I don't think they're gonna stick around the way they were...[with]such a force, such a presence like in the 80's and 70's and, you know, up into the 90's.

So doing Rambo's going to be a real challenge because it's kind of like a, you know, what you call a handmade, hands on film. Not a lot of CGI. It's things that are actually feasible you know. I think it's great what they do with "Spider-Man" and "X-Men"... it's very creative. But I think this would also be a challenge too.

"It's Balboa!"

2006-11-14T19:59:00.000-05:00

Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] tags Heavyweight Champion, Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER], as the two modern-day gladiators go toe-to-toe!

And for all of you SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fanatics we've got some great news! Tomorrow night we are going exclusive on Yahoo with the second trailer for "Rocky Balboa." Look for it at 'Yahoo Trailers!' Click Here!

The trailer should premiere on Access Hollywood tonight or tomorrow and then with "Casino Royale" which opens on Friday [11/17]. We are also adding trivia, polls and a soundboard to the official site so keep a look out for that.
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this picture click HERE!

The final round of the Academy Award-winning® Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, here's Sly's response to another question sent in by STALLONEZONErs!

Craig Zablo: Have you ever regretted passing on a role in a movie?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: Sure, oh my God, there are so many things... like, "Witness" and "Romancing The Stone." I think at one time I was mentioned for "Coming Home." I don’t know if that's true but, you know, when you're at your peak you're offered so much. And quite often you don't do it and it's a big mistake.

It's Dixon...

2006-11-10T21:50:00.000-05:00

Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER] takes it to Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] when the two meet in the center of the ring with neither willing to give an inch.
- Craig Zablo

It's the final round of the Academy Award® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

For a larger version of this picture click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, here's Sly's response to another question sent in by STALLONEZONErs!

Craig Zablo: Is writing an autobiography in your plans?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: [LAUGHS] No, 'cause I can't tell the truth. I have to wait until like hundreds of people are dead and it's gonna take forever. I don't want to embarrass anyone. If they wait until I'm dead, is it possible to write an autobiography from the grave? Now there's a trick.

Two Worlds Collide

2006-11-05T19:09:00.000-05:00

Rocky Balboa (SYLVESTER STALLONE), out of retirement and back into the ring with his new rival, Heavyweight Champion, Mason Dixon (ANTONIO TARVER). It's Old Lion against young lion, and will vs skill, when The Italian Stallion squares off against Mason "The Line" Dixon.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award-winning® Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.
Photo by: John Bramley

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, here's Sly's response to another question sent in by STALLONEZONErs!

Craig Zablo: After "Rambo IV" concludes, what will be your next project?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: I'm gonna direct "Edgar Allen Poe" [without] being in it. "Yo, Poe!" doesn't work. I'd like to direct some nice young actor in it who can get the soul of Poe. It's a dark story, but the challenge is how to make it enjoyable, so it isn't that depressing. And then there's a book I've been looking at for a while called Homefront, which is pretty good and, you know, there's certain things that will crop up. The main thing is I'd, I'd much rather spend more time directing than actually acting.

Can't Teach a Dog New Tricks [or Treats!]

2006-10-31T19:28:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween to all Sylvester Stallone / Rocky fanatics around the world! We found one more picture of Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] and his pal Punchy. We thought that it would make a sweet Halloween treat [and it won't rot your teeth]!
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, here's Sly's response to another question sent in by STALLONEZONErs!

Craig: Sly, fans would love for you to do commentary tracks if and when your movies are re-released on DVD. Are you up for that? Is this something you enjoy?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: I do enjoy it. You sit down and you just have a glass of wine and you start to look at something in the cold light of day and it's good. And I think [if] you find humor in it, the one thing is, you know, you try not, at least I try not to take myself too seriously. But quite often when you're doing the film you're like you're in this deep, you know, morass of moodiness. And you go, you're not thinking straight but, you know, afterwards you go, "Oh that's just a movie. Now lets talk about it and have some fun with it, maybe."

New Balboa Photos!

2006-10-26T19:50:00.000-04:00

Enjoy! -Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

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"Let's Get Ready to Rock!"

2006-10-24T19:31:00.000-04:00

It's come down to this... Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] steps out of his corner, ready to mix it up with Heavyweight Champion Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER].
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, here's Sly's response to another question sent in by STALLONEZONEr!

Craig: Do you still paint?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: I do. [LAUGHS] I, you know, the other day I, I usually paint characters or situations that are, you know, kind of emotional... bizarre. But lately I've been painting, dare I say it, flowers for the house. But they're bizarre flowers.

And In This Corner...

2006-10-20T22:36:00.000-04:00

Rocky Balboa (SYLVESTER STALLONE), looking fit and cut, steps out of retirement and back into the ring to face a younger and more skilled rival in a dramatically different era. The final round of the Academy Award®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, for the next few weeks we're going to run Sly's responses to questions sent in by STALLONEZONErs from around the world!

Craig: You've returned to Rocky and soon will start work on your next Rambo film. Are there other characters that you'd like to revisit?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: [LAUGHS ] Well, you know, there's some things that I, I, I felt as though maybe I didn't pay [enough] attention [to]. I thought Judge Dredd would have been fantastic, great character just didn't work. Cobra was also an interesting character, yet could have been fleshed out. I thought Tango and Cash could have hung around for another version. So yeah there, there are always those. There's about three or four characters I thought still could have hung around for a sequel.

And Rocky Makes Three

2006-10-15T12:40:00.000-04:00

Mason Dixon (ANTONIO TARVER) engages in a bout of verbal sparring with MIKE TYSON before his bout with Rocky in "ROCKY BALBOA." Both Tarver and Tyson are former boxing world champions and bring a heightened sense of realism to the final round of the Academy Award®-winning Rocky franchise which hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this image click HERE!

Photo by: John Bramley

As an added bonus for SYLVESTER STALLONE / ROCKY fans, for the next few weeks we're going to run Sly's responses to questions sent in by STALLONEZONErs from around the world!

Craig: Sly, you have one of the web's longest running fan sites in the world! Is there anything you'd like to say to your STALLONEZONErs?

SYLVESTER STALLONE: [LAUGHS] I can't believe you've hung in this long, but thank you very much. I know it's, you know, kind of like the integrity of the character that keeps bringing you back and I appreciate that. It's nice knowing somebody like Rocky. It's been very beneficial for me. And I think the guys that have been really supportive and loyal will be happy with the end result of Rocky Balboa because I think we bring the character to a final and noble conclusion.

Taping the "Hurtin' Bombs"

2006-10-11T17:35:00.000-04:00

Duke [TONY BURTON] tapes ROCKY BALBOA's [SYLVESTER STALLONE] fists as final preparations for the big fight draw near. Rocky places it all on the line when he steps in the ring against a younger, more skilled fighter.
-Craig Zablo

It's will versus skill when the final round of the Academy Award® winning "Rocky" franchise [written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE] opens in theaters on Friday, December 22, 2006!

Photo by: John Bramley

ROCKY BALBOA TEASER

2006-10-06T19:48:00.000-04:00

Here's a first look at the official "ROCKY BALBOA" teaser poster! You have to love how it echos the poster for the original "ROCKY."
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this teaser poster click HERE!

The final round of the Academy Award® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Real vs Reel Punch

2006-10-03T20:18:00.000-04:00

Writer, director and star SYLVESTER STALLONE (left), shows former lightheavyweight champ ANTONIO TARVER (Mason Dixon) how to throw a realistic movie punch while on the set of "ROCKY BALBOA." The final round of the Academy Award® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.
-Craig Zablo

Photo by John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

With a Little Help From My Friends

2006-09-30T22:16:00.000-04:00

It's prefight time as Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] spends a contemplative moment with an old friend before going to do battle with a much younger and more skilled opponent.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

SKILL vs WILL

2006-09-26T19:14:00.000-04:00

Mason Dixon (ANTONIO TARVER) looks on as Rocky Balboa (SYLVESTER STALLONE) steps out of retirement for one last battle! Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE, the final round of the Academy Award ®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Reel Life Meets Real Life

2006-09-22T19:26:00.000-04:00

Writer, director and star SYLVESTER STALLONE oversees scene preparations by real-life boxing commentators JIM LAMPLEY, MAX KELLERMAN and LARRY MERCHANT.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ® -winning “Rocky” franchise hits theaters on Friday, December 22, 2006!

Photo by Neil Leifer

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Hammer Time

2006-09-18T21:09:00.000-04:00

It's "Hammer Time" as in sledge hammer time when Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] trains to build "hurtin' bombs."
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

ROCK HARD

2006-09-14T23:00:00.000-04:00

Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER] looks on as Rocky Balboa [SYLVESTER STALLONE] weighs in. It's skill vs will when "Rocky Balboa" returns to theaters in time for Christmas.
-Craig Zablo

For a larger version of this picture, click HERE!

The final round of the Academy Award ®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Philly Loves Rocky

2006-09-10T07:21:00.000-04:00

Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] knows that it's always best to train with a partner, and who could be a better partner than fan-favorite, Punchy?

In case you missed it, this week was "Philly Loves Rocky Week!" Sylvester Stallone was the guest of honor, the Rocky statue went home, and there were a ton of events honoring Sly and Rocky. Check out the StalloneZone this weekend for full details!
-Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

TRIPLE THREAT!

2006-09-05T20:27:00.000-04:00

A behind-the-scenes shot of SLY on location! SYLVESTER STALLONE returns as screenwriter, director and star of ROCKY BALBOA.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.

Photo by John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Building Blunt Force Trauma

2006-09-03T20:12:00.000-04:00

Duke [TONY BURTON] trains Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] so that he can call on "blunt force trauma" when he steps into the ring against Mason Dixon [ANTONIO TARVER] in "Rocky Balboa."
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ®-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

"What We Need is Strength"

2006-08-30T19:20:00.000-04:00

With Duke [TONY BURTON} on board, Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] can now focus on what it takes to win... building strength... building "hurting bombs."
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award ® -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Duke is Back!

2006-08-27T18:30:00.000-04:00

Fan favorite, TONY BURTON returns as "Duke" to train Rocky [SYLVESTER STALLONE] as he prepares to go to war with a younger more skilled oppponent. - Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

2006 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., Columbia Pictures Industries Inc., and Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC

Gonna Fly Now!

2006-08-22T06:09:00.000-04:00

Rocky (SYLVESTER STALLONE) knows that strength coupled with endurance will give him a "slugger's chance" against a younger and more skilled fighter.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

Feeling Strong Now

2006-08-16T19:33:00.000-04:00

Rocky (SYLVESTER STALLONE) knows that in order to go toe-to-toe with a younger, more skilled fighter, he's going to need to build strength...
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

Rock Bottom

2006-08-13T08:21:00.000-04:00

Everyone is getting on the "Rocky Balboa" bandwagon!

Entertainment Weekly's August 18, 2006 issue highlights "Rocky Balboa" in the "Things We're Pumped for in December" section and calls it the "unlikely, but still stirring idea of Stallone climbing back into the ring for 'Rocky Balboa.'" EW also runs a cropped version of today's photo with a look at the film.

Here are a couple of excerpts: Adrian's death "is a dramatic ploy to put Roc at rock bottom" and from Sly, "What they [Mason Dixon's camp] don't understand is that Rocky's got this beast inside, this grief, and to him it's not a fight, it's a purging."

- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.
Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

"Skill vs Will"

2006-08-08T19:32:00.000-04:00

Although Rocky (SYLVESTER STALLONE) just wanted some small local fights, he finds himself back into the ring facing a new rival, Mason Dixon (ANTONIO TARVER) in a dramatically different era.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.
Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

"You Haven't Peaked Yet?"

2006-08-05T10:45:00.000-04:00

When Rocky (Sly Stallone) decides to come out of retirement for some small local fights, He discovers that a bigger fight may be an option.
- Craig Zablo

The final round of the Academy Award™-winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006.
Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

Stallone Trifecta

2006-07-31T21:38:00.000-04:00

Sylvester Stallone writes, directs and stars in Rocky Balboa...the greatest underdog story of our time is back for one final round.
Opening in thearers everywhere December 22, 2006!
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Rocky and his Buddy

2006-07-27T21:33:00.000-04:00

Wow! The reaction to "Punchy" was amazing! Seems everyone loves him! So, due to popular demand, here's another shot of "Punchy" and Rocky.

Remember to spread the word, the final round of the Academy Award ™ -winning Rocky franchise hits theatres Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE. - Craig

Photo by: John Bramley

Rocky and Lil' Marie

2006-07-23T17:55:00.000-04:00

Yep. That's Lil' Marie all grown up. Remember when Rocky gave her some advice in the first movie? My bet is she will soon return the favor.
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Not Just Another Bum from the Neighborhood

2006-07-19T18:24:00.000-04:00

Adrian has passed away. Their son is grown. Rocky's back in the old neighborhood and alone...

...but he still might have some stuff in the basement.
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Burt Young returns as Paulie!

2006-07-15T15:22:00.000-04:00

Burt Young, in his signature role as Rocky's Brother-in-Law, shares a scene with writer, director and "Rocky Balboa" star, Sylvester Stallone!
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Sylvester Stallone as "Rocky Balboa!"

2006-07-11T19:41:00.000-04:00

Yesterday die-hard Rocky fans were treated to the release of the official "Rocky Balboa" trailer.
Today we get another exclusive photo of Sly as Rocky! Life is good!
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Official "Rocky Balboa" trailer

2006-07-07T17:50:00.000-04:00

I've received word that the official "Rocky Balboa" trailer can be seen with "Pirates of the Caribbean" starting today [July 7th] and on Yahoo beginning Monday [July 10th]! - Craig Zablo

Happy Birthday Sly!

2006-07-06T14:07:00.000-04:00

Today is Sly's birthday!
To help fans celebrate, we decided that an update was in order!
Sly checks the composition of his next shot in this exclusive behind-the-scenes photo taken on location during the filming of "Rocky Balboa."
- Craig Zablo

Photo by: John Bramley

Balboa's Return

2006-07-01T23:35:00.000-04:00

Here's an exclusive photo of Sly, back in his signature role.
Sylvester Stallone fans have waited for years to see Sly return to the role that he made famous! Believe me, it will be worth the wait!
-Craig Zablo

The sixth installment of the legendary "ROCKY" franchise hits theaters Friday, December 22, 2006. Written and directed by SYLVESTER STALLONE.

Photo by: John Bramley

Stay Tuned...

2006-06-19T10:05:00.000-04:00

The Rocky Balboa Blog will soon be updated with more great content and a brand new home.

www.StalloneZone.com

Check out an exclusive clip from ROCKY BALBOA

2006-05-08T16:27:00.001-04:00

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Sly sets up a shot on the set of ROCKY BALBOA

2006-01-26T15:36:00.000-05:00

Third photo from Rocky Balboa

2006-01-19T19:17:00.000-05:00

Check out the third photo form the Rocky Balboa production below:

Second photo from Rocky Balboa

2006-01-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

Check out the second photo from the Rocky Balboa production below:

First photo from Rocky Balboa

2006-01-05T22:36:00.000-05:00

Production for Rocky Balboa has begun. Check out the first photo below: