Last week I was talking on the phone with my brother, Tom, and for some reason we got on the topic of the movie, Rocky.
And what’s really strange is that for being someone who doesn’t care much for boxing or fighting, I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this film. In fact, I can still remember the day I first saw it when I was living in NYC, back in the late seventies. I went with a group of friends, who were also students at the acting school I attended in Manhattan. And if I remember correctly, I think we saw it at a movie theater down in Greenwich Village.
What I enjoy most about this movie is that it exemplifies the power of tenacity and spirit. And that regardless of how life at times tells us that we can’t do something, we do it anyway. And beat the odds.
To me, Rocky is really not a move just about boxing, because the overall theme of this story could pertain to anything.
The theme is universal.
Anything is possible.
And that's what people feel, whenever they view this movie.
As you all know I live in Philadelphia, which is where much of Rocky was filmed. And if you’ve ever seen it, you can’t help but remember the famous scene in which Rocky Balboa runs up the stairs of the Philadelphia Art Museum, while the movie's theme song, Gonna Fly Now, plays in the background.
Well, as a special post for my brother Tom, I walked over to the art museum last week and took a few photos of this memorable spot, where you’ll often see tourists and residences alike, snapping photos of where Balboa once stood.
And I can't tell you how much fun it is to watch people standing on Rocky’s footprints, while raising their arms in the air; reenacting the scene from the movie and having their photographs taken.
Which just goes to show you how much this film classic has touched people from all over the world.
Here is a photo of the Rocky statue….
This sculpture was originally placed at the top of the museum stairs, which overlooked the skyline of Philadelphia. However, it was eventually moved to the side of the stairs on street level.
Rocky Balboa’s sneaker prints.
A view of Philadelphia from the museum stairs, back then. (photo from the movie)
Same view, today.
And just to add some silliness to this post, I would like to share a few photos I created over at Face In Hole.
And Tom, I love ya, bro!
*waving from Philly*
Wishing you a Rocky Balboa weekend everyone!
X
Looking good, Ronnie!!! I also remember the time and place I saw that movie.....at an 8th grade party.....my first boy/girl party! They must have had HBO, because this was before VCRs. A great memory for me as well.......we played 'We are the Champions' nonstop on the record player all night! Oh to be young and invincible again!
Have a super weekend!