Rocky Balboa. An iconic hero.

Some years back, Sylvester Stallone wrote, directed, and starred in a quirky movie titled, "Rocky." For some reason, the public latched onto the story of a common man fighting extraordinary odds and surviving. It's probably safe to say that the whole world knows the story of Rocky. I certainly grew up with it all around me, and the pulsing soundtrack of "Rocky III" brought us a classic hero song: "Eye of the Tiger."

Recently, Stallone decided it was time to return to the roots of that great story and give us the capstone piece of the Rocky saga. This one named, "Rocky Balboa." In it, Rocky is now a middle-aged father. He runs his own restaurant, filled with memorabilia of his boxing days, and spends time telling stories and visiting the grave of his dear wife. He has a son, who is working a high profile job but feels he is living in his father's mighty shadow. At the same time, Rocky is touched by a neighborhood mother and her son.

Yes, there is a boxing match, and yes, Rocky fights to the end. But, this movie is far more than only that. Stallone captures the essence of a true hero, in that this hero fights in every part of his life. He overcomes challenges constantly, but isn't afraid to admit his weaknesses. "Rocky Balboa" is an awe inspiring film. I think it's one of the very best hero movies ever made, and if you aren't crying at the end then you have no heart. I especially love how Rocky doesn't even wait to hear the results at the end, but takes his leave immediately after the match ends. What matters is he fought with everything he had inside him--he held nothing back--and the judges count meant nothing compared with that.

Rocky is a legendary hero, because he represents how much we desire to fight the good fight. Even when there doesn't seem any hope of success, he fights anyway. Courage. Honor. Respect. Rocky Balboa is worthy of admiration. I'm glad Sylvester Stallone remember, and put it on screen once more.

- M