At the Toronto International Film Festival, Peter Farrelly's latest directorial effort, I Play Rocky, made its world premiere, and it's already generating serious Oscar buzz. The film tells the incredible true story of how a down-and-out Sylvester Stallone wrote and fought to star in the film that would change his life forever. Anthony Ippolito, best known for his role in The Offer, delivers a career-defining performance as the young Stallone, and the film chronicles the unlikely journey of bringing Rocky to the big screen.
Before he was the iconic action hero, Stallone was a struggling actor living in poverty. He had a few minor roles, including an adult film, and worked as an usher at a theater. But after watching Muhammad Ali's fight against Chuck Wepner, inspiration struck. Stallone wrote the screenplay for Rocky in a burst of creative energy, and when he pitched it to studio executives, they were eager to buy it—but they wanted a big star to play the lead. Stallone refused, insisting that he play Rocky Balboa himself. The executives offered him more and more money, but Stallone wouldn't budge. Eventually, they gave in, and the rest is cinematic history.
At the Collider Media Studio, presented by Campari and The Cayman Islands, Steve Weintraub sat down with Farrelly, Ippolito, Stephan James (who plays Carl Weathers), and Kiki Seto (who plays Talia Shire) to discuss the film. The conversation covered everything from how the script came together to why Ippolito was the only actor they considered for the role of Stallone. The team also shared what it was like to bring these legendary figures to life and what they're most excited (or nervous) for Stallone to see.
Why Anthony Ippolito Was the Perfect Choice
Farrelly revealed that Ippolito was the only actor they ever considered for the part. "He just had that quality," Farrelly said. "He looked like Stallone, he had the mannerisms, and he had the heart. We knew he could pull it off." Ippolito, for his part, was determined to do justice to the role. He spent months studying Stallone's speech patterns, physicality, and the way he moved. "It was a lot of homework," Ippolito admitted. "It's a lonely ride, but it was worth it."
Stephan James and Kiki Seto also shared their experiences joining the project. James, who plays Carl Weathers, said he was drawn to the script's emotional depth. "It's not just a movie about boxing," he said. "It's about perseverance and believing in yourself." Seto, who plays Talia Shire, echoed that sentiment, adding that the film captures the spirit of the original Rocky while telling a fresh story.
What to Expect from 'I Play Rocky'
The film doesn't just focus on Stallone's struggle to get the movie made; it also explores the relationships he formed along the way, including with Weathers and Shire. The cast and director discussed how they chose which moments to include and which to leave out, ensuring the story remained focused and emotionally resonant. They also joked about which iconic actor Ippolito might want to play next, with Ippolito laughing and saying, "Maybe De Niro?"
For fans of the feel-good biopic, this is a must-see. The film is a celebration of the underdog spirit that made Rocky a classic, and it's already being hailed as one of the best films of the year. If you're looking for more Rocky and Creed content, you can catch the original films on Pluto TV.
As for Stallone himself, the team is eager to see his reaction. "We're nervous, but we're also excited," Farrelly said. "We hope he loves it." With its powerful performances and inspiring story, I Play Rocky is sure to be a hit with audiences and critics alike.
