I Play Rocky Review: Farrelly’s Lighthearted Stallone Biopic

The Toronto International Film Festival opened with a screening of Peter Farrelly’s new comedy “I Play Rocky,” a light‑hearted look at the behind‑the‑scenes of the 1976 classic. The film follows a fictionalized version of Sylvester Stallone’s early career, with Anthony Ippolito cast as the aspiring actor who ultimately becomes the iconic Rocky Balboa. Ippolito’s portrayal is described as a “knockout central performance,” with the actor’s physicality and vocal delivery convincingly channeling Stallone’s swagger while also hinting at the character of Rocky himself.

In the opening sequence, Ippolito is shown auditioning for the role of “Thug #2,” a scene that sets the tone for the film’s blend of comedy and nostalgia. The narrative then follows the young Stallone as he courts his future wife, played by AnnaSophia Robb, and negotiates with producers Irwin Winkler (PJ Byrne) and Robert Chartoff (Toby Kebbell). Throughout these moments, Ippolito’s performance blurs the line between the actor and his most famous creation, offering a playful yet respectful homage to the original film’s legacy. The screening at TIFF highlights Farrelly’s attempt to capture the spirit of the original while presenting a fresh, comedic perspective on the making of a cultural icon.