Director Peter Farrelly’s film about Sylvester Stallone’s struggle to make the 1976 classic 'Rocky' debuted at TIFF, featuring a breakout performance by Anthony Ippolito.
Key facts
- •The 1976 'Rocky' film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and won three, including best picture.
- •Director Peter Farrelly previously won the TIFF People’s Choice Award for his 2016 film 'Green Book'.
- •Anthony Ippolito previously played a young Al Pacino in the limited series 'The Offer'.
- •The film depicts Stallone’s refusal to sell his script unless he was permitted to play the lead role himself.
- •The world premiere took place on Sept. 12 at the Princess of Wales Theatre.
The biographical film 'I Play Rocky' held its world premiere Saturday night at the Princess of Wales Theatre during the Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Peter Farrelly and written by Peter Gamble, the movie chronicles Sylvester Stallone’s persistent effort to write and star in the 1976 film 'Rocky.' Anthony Ippolito portrays Stallone in a performance that has drawn attention as a potential contender for the festival's People’s Choice Award.
By the numbers
Casting and Production
Director Peter Farrelly discovered Anthony Ippolito after the actor submitted a self-tape featuring three scenes filmed in his grandmother’s basement. Farrelly stated he decided to cast Ippolito immediately after viewing the audition. Ippolito, a 27-year-old actor previously known for roles in 'Grand Army' and 'The Offer,' spent nearly two years preparing for the part of Stallone.
Cast and Supporting Roles
The film features an ensemble cast including AnnaSophia Robb as Sasha Czack, Matt Dillon as Frank Stallone Sr., and Stephan James as Carl Weathers. Jay Duplass portrays 'Rocky' director John G. Avildsen, while P.J. Byrne and Toby Kebbell play producers Irwin Winkler and Robert Chartoff. The cast also includes Kiki Seto as Talia Shire, Robert Morgan as Burgess Meredith, and Scot Teller as Burt Young.
Release Schedule
Following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, 'I Play Rocky' is scheduled for a limited release by Amazon MGM Studios on Nov. 6. The film will expand to a nationwide release on Nov. 20.
Timeline
- Sept. 12The film held its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
- Nov. 6Amazon MGM Studios will open the film in limited release.
- Nov. 20The film will expand to a nationwide release.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Variety.
