Amazon MGM Studios has released a new trailer for I Play Rocky. An upcoming drama about the unlikely journey behind one of Hollywood’s most beloved underdog stories.
Directed by Academy Award winner Peter Farrelly and written by Peter Gamble. The film explores how Sylvester Stallone fought to bring Rocky to the big screen while insisting that he play the lead role himself. Rather than selling his script and letting another actor portray the legendary boxer, Stallone bet everything on his own vision.
The film promises to tell the story of an unknown actor who believed he was destined not only to write Rocky; but also to become Rocky Balboa.
The Story Behind Rocky Balboa
Rocky became a landmark in Hollywood history. Turning Stallone into a major star and introducing audiences to one of cinema’s most recognizable fictional boxers. But before the film became a cultural phenomenon, Stallone faced seemingly impossible odds as he tried to get his story made on his own terms.
I Play Rocky focuses on that struggle, following Stallone as he repeatedly faces rejection while holding firm to his demand that he play the title character.
The film presents his determination as the ultimate real life underdog story. Mirroring the themes that would eventually make Rocky resonate with audiences around the world.
Stallone’s insistence on playing Rocky was a major gamble. At the time, he was far from the established Hollywood star audiences would eventually know, and accepting a deal that separated him from the lead role could have offered a more straightforward path to getting his screenplay produced. Instead, he risked losing the opportunity altogether to protect his vision for the character. That determination became central to the story of Rocky, a film about an overlooked boxer who gets an unlikely shot at greatness. I Play Rocky explores the real life struggle behind that familiar message, showing how the story’s themes of persistence and self belief also applied to the person creating it.
Instead of focusing on the boxing matches alone. I Play Rocky looks at the ambition, persistence, and personal risks behind the making of the original film.
An Ensemble Cast Brings the Story to Life
Anthony Ippolito stars as Sylvester Stallone, with AnnaSophia Robb, Toby Kebbell, P.J. Byrne, Jay Duplass, and Kiki Seto also appearing. Matt Dillon features in the film, alongside Stephan James and Tracy Letts.
Peter Farrelly directs from a screenplay by Peter Gamble. Farrelly previously won an Academy Award for Green Book. It took home Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay at the 2019 Academy Awards.
The creative team is taking on a story that should appeal to movie fans. Especially those interested in the history behind iconic Hollywood productions.
When Can You Watch I Play Rocky?
I Play Rocky will arrive in select theatres on November 6, 2026, before expanding everywhere on November 20.
The film is rated PG-13 for strong language, brief sexual material, and smoking.
With a story built around perseverance, creative ambition; and refusing to give up when the odds are stacked against you, I Play Rocky aims to revisit the unlikely journey that helped create one of cinema’s greatest underdog heroes.
For more Movie news, stay tuned to That Hollywood Show.
Reviews