Growing up in the 1980s, there has never been a time when Rocky Balboa was not part of my life. And a significant part at that. Like many children of my era, I grew up with Eye of the Tiger serving as the soundtrack to my youth and a VHS (first Betamax) copy of Rocky III on repeat so much we wore out the tape! I didn’t think it could get any better than seeing the Italian Stallion go toe to toe with Clubber Lang, or body slamming another 80s hero of mine, Hulk Hogan (Thunder Lips). Until Rocky IV was released. My first time seeing it was almost a life changing experience. It is still the film I put on first when I need a Rocky “fix” or in need of inspiration. While many things have changed since those early viewings, my admiration and love of all things Rocky, the fourth installment of the franchise most notably, has never waned. As soon as I stumbled upon this masterpiece, I knew it needed to join my Rocky collection. It is not only part of it (along with the “Russian” version of the director’s cut print I purchased at the same time), it serves as the centerpiece. John Rivoli’s work is brilliant, passionate, inspired and as iconic as the film itself and the man who portrayed perhaps the most beloved character in cinematic history. What is also obvious is John’s love and admiration of Rocky too. It shines through in the work and in how he describes his vision for it. I am thrilled to proudly display this piece of movie history in my home and enjoy it for years to come. 🥊
