Rocky (1976)

Kernel Score: 88% · 8,467 ratings · Rated PG

Genres: Drama

Released: 1976-12-03

Runtime: 120 minutes

Is Rocky worth watching?

Must-watch. The original underdog story: a small-time Philadelphia boxer gets one shot at the title. It's more of a character drama than a fight film, and its heart makes it a classic.

Watch it if you

  • love underdog stories
  • want a sports film that's really about a person
  • enjoy 1970s character-driven filmmaking

Skip it if you

  • want constant boxing action
  • dislike sentimental endings

Best for: Solo night in

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Rocky

  • Stream: Prime Video, Paramount+, YouTube TV
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Rocky Balboa is a Philadelphia club fighter who seems to be going nowhere. But when a stroke of fate puts him in the ring with a world heavyweight champion, Rocky knows that it's his one shot at the big time — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go the distance and come out a winner!

Movies like Rocky

If you liked Rocky, these are the movies we'd watch next.

  • Creed (2015) — 84%: The modern follow-up that carries on the story.
  • Raging Bull (1980) — 89%: A harder, darker boxing character study.
  • Million Dollar Baby (2004) — 90%: Moving boxing drama about people and second chances.
  • Warrior (2011) — 89%: Brothers, family and fighting, with real heart.
  • Rocky II (1979) — 81%: Direct sequel following Rocky after the big fight.
  • Cinderella Man (2005) — 84%: Depression-era underdog boxer fighting for his family.

Director

John G. Avildsen

Cast

  • Sylvester Stallone as Robert 'Rocky' Balboa
  • Talia Shire as Adrianna 'Adrian' Pennino
  • Burt Young as Paulie Pennino
  • Carl Weathers as Apollo Creed
  • Burgess Meredith as Mickey Goldmill
  • Thayer David as George 'Miles' Jergens
  • Joe Spinell as Tony Gazzo
  • Jimmy Gambina as Mike
  • Bill Baldwin as Fight Announcer
  • Al Silvani as Cut Man

Rocky FAQ

Is Rocky worth watching?

Must-watch. The original underdog story: a small-time Philadelphia boxer gets one shot at the title. It's more of a character drama than a fight film, and its heart makes it a classic.

Where can I watch Rocky?

In the US you can stream Rocky on Prime Video, Paramount+ and YouTube TV and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

What is Rocky rated?

Rocky is rated PG.

What movies are like Rocky?

If you liked Rocky, try Creed, Raging Bull, Million Dollar Baby and Warrior.