.
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The rise and fall of a protagonist in a movie back then were well-written, dramatized, and romanticized. The character Apollo Creed, played by Carl Weathers (pic) from the movie Rocky 4, especially his death brought the character arc of Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) to his lowest level. Yet from there he rose and fought his own self-doubt and shadow in the form of the Russian giant, Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) who is also the 'villain' responsible for Apollo's death. Rocky was stuck in the middle of the fight between two rivaling Cold War superpowers, surrendering to his anger for revenge and the pure professionalism of athletic triumph.
I grew up watching the VHS played every time my late father engaged in his workout session. Even as a kid, I was able to relate to the struggle and sympathize without the need for today's movie's so-called "representation". Despite our differences on the outside, we are all similar within and that is what links us to the core emotion.
Another thing that is missing in today's film is the musical interlude. In Rocky 4 especially (yes, it is a Christmas movie), they relay so much emotion towards the struggle of the protagonist, that it serves as a great companion for catharsis. The musical interlude "There's no easy way out" shows Rocky drove away his feelings. The screenplay shows him gazing all around him and each time a scene from his past emerged. It is a trade long gone.
Playing the song on a long night drive made me recall all the ones I lost in February. My father and brother, each 4 years apart. And this time it is Carl Weathers.
"No matter what." Rest in peace, Champs.
💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻