Rocky IV is a quintessential 1980s sports drama that perfectly captures the spirit of the Cold War era. Released on Nov. 27, 1985, the fourth installment in the popular Rocky series starring Sylvester Stallone, the film pits the iconic boxer Rocky Balboa against the formidable Soviet fighter Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren.
The film’s plot is simple yet effective: after the tragic death of his friend Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) at the hands of Drago, Rocky vows to avenge him by challenging the Soviet fighter inn a personal vendetta that leads to a climactic showdown on Christmas Day in Russia. The film is fueled by a powerful sense of patriotism and a desire to overcome adversity, making it a quintessential underdog story.
One of the film’s most iconic elements is its training montage, which showcases Rocky’s grueling preparation for the fight. Set against the backdrop of a snowy Siberian wilderness, the montage is visually stunning and emotionally charged. The climactic boxing match between Rocky and Drago is a thrilling spectacle, filled with powerful punches and dramatic intensity.
Rocky IV Cast
Stallone’s performance as Rocky is both charismatic and inspiring. He brings a raw intensity to the role, and his dedication to physical fitness is evident in every scene. Stallone was at his height of popularity in 1985 when he wrote, directed and starred in this film and Rambo: First Blood Part II in the same year, prior to his box office rivalry for action star supremacy with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Lundgren, as the imposing Drago, is a formidable opponent, and his intense and brooding performance adds to the film’s dramatic tension.
Weathers stars for the final time as Apollo Creed, former heavyweight champion of the world and close friend of Rocky’s from their training time in Rocky III.
Talia Shire is back as Rocky’s wife and support system, Adrian puts on a strong performance as Rocky’s support system and voice of reason.
Brigitte Nielsen stars as Drago’s wife, Ludmilla Vobet Drago. Nielsen was engaged to Stallone during the filming and went on the get married, appear together in 1986’s Cobra before getting divorced in 1987.
Reception
Rocky IV opened over the five-day Thanksgiving weekend in 1985 to a non-summer record of $31.8 million for the top spot at the box office. The film would spend six weeks in the No. 1 spot en route to a total gross of $127.8 million domestically and $300 million worldwide, the highest of any Rocky film.
Rocky IV finished as the third highest grossing film of the year behind Back to the Future ($211.9 million) and Rambo: First Blood Part II ($150.4 million).
Chicago Tribune film critic Gene Siskel gave Rocky IV 3.5 out of 4 stars in his review, saying “Stallone accomplishes that by doing what so many action writers and directors have failed to do over the years: He creates credible villains worthy of his heroic character.”
Stallone released a director’s cut in 202o, Rocky IV: Rocky vs Drago featuring roughly 38 minutes of previously unreleased footage while significant amount of original footage was removed or replaced to make way for these additions with the new version’s running time being two minutes shorter at 91 minutes.
Chicago Sun Times film critic Richard Roeper praised the new version in his review, saying “with new cut of Rocky IV, Stallone gives Apollo (and the movie) more dignity.”
Rocky IV: Rocky vs. Drago – The Ultimate Director’s Cut (Photo/MGM)
Legacy
Rocky IV is a product of its time, reflecting the Cold War tensions of the 1980s. The film’s message of unity and understanding transcends cultural and political boundaries, making it a timeless classic. The film it remains a beloved entry in the Rocky franchise, inspiring audiences with its powerful story and unforgettable characters.
