10 Movies & Shows Like Rocky (1976)

Description: Raging Bull, like Rocky, is a boxing film that delves deep into the personal struggles of its protagonist. Both films explore themes of redemption, self-destruction, and the cost of fame. While Rocky is more uplifting, Raging Bull offers a darker, more introspective look at the life of a boxer, but both are masterpieces in their portrayal of the sport and its impact on the human spirit.

Fact: Raging Bull is based on the life of boxer Jake LaMotta. Robert De Niro gained 60 pounds to play the older LaMotta. The film is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made and was directed by Martin Scorsese.

Description: The Hurricane, like Rocky, is based on a true story and focuses on a boxer's struggle against overwhelming odds. While Rocky is about personal achievement, The Hurricane deals with social injustice and the fight for freedom. Both films highlight the resilience and determination of their protagonists.

Fact: The Hurricane stars Denzel Washington as Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter. The film was criticized for taking liberties with the true story. Denzel Washington was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.

Description: Ali, like Rocky, is a biographical sports film that delves into the life of a legendary boxer. Both films explore the personal and professional challenges faced by their protagonists, as well as their impact on the world of boxing. Ali's focus on the cultural and political aspects of boxing adds a different dimension, but the core themes of perseverance and greatness are shared with Rocky.

Fact: Will Smith trained for a year to portray Muhammad Ali. The film was directed by Michael Mann. Will Smith was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.

Description: Cinderella Man, like Rocky, is an underdog story set during the Great Depression. Both films highlight the protagonist's struggle to provide for their family and achieve greatness in the boxing ring. The emotional depth and historical context of Cinderella Man make it a compelling companion to Rocky.

Fact: Cinderella Man is based on the life of boxer James J. Braddock. Russell Crowe underwent extensive boxing training for the role. The film was directed by Ron Howard.

Description: Million Dollar Baby shares Rocky's themes of determination, mentorship, and the underdog story, but with a female protagonist. Both films highlight the emotional and physical toll of boxing, as well as the deep bond between a fighter and their trainer. The film's emotional depth and realistic portrayal of the sport make it a worthy companion to Rocky.

Fact: Million Dollar Baby won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Hilary Swank trained for months to convincingly portray a boxer. The film was directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars as the trainer.

Description: Real Steel, while a sci-fi film about robot boxing, shares Rocky's themes of underdog triumph and the bond between a fighter and their mentor. The film's emotional core and the protagonist's journey to redemption are reminiscent of Rocky's story, albeit in a futuristic setting.

Fact: Real Steel is loosely based on a short story by Richard Matheson. The film combines CGI and practical effects for the robot boxing scenes. Hugh Jackman stars as the lead, bringing his charisma to the role.

Description: Similar to Rocky, The Fighter is a boxing drama that focuses on the underdog story of a determined fighter overcoming personal and professional obstacles. Both films highlight the importance of perseverance, family support, and the gritty reality of the boxing world. The Fighter, like Rocky, is based on a true story, adding an extra layer of authenticity and emotional depth.

Fact: The Fighter is based on the true story of boxer Micky Ward and his half-brother Dicky Eklund. Christian Bale lost 30 pounds to play Dicky Eklund. The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Christian Bale.

Description: Warrior, while focusing on MMA rather than boxing, shares Rocky's themes of family conflict, redemption, and the underdog story. The film's emotional core, intense fight sequences, and focus on the personal struggles of its characters make it a spiritual successor to Rocky in many ways.

Fact: Warrior features real-life MMA fighters in supporting roles. Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton underwent rigorous training to prepare for their roles. The film was a sleeper hit, gaining a strong following after its theatrical release.

Description: Southpaw, like Rocky, is a story of a boxer overcoming personal tragedy and professional setbacks to reclaim his glory. The film focuses on themes of redemption, family, and the brutal reality of the boxing world. The emotional intensity and gritty realism of the boxing scenes are reminiscent of Rocky's iconic fights.

Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal underwent a intense physical transformation to play the lead role. The film's original script was written with Eminem in mind for the lead role. The boxing scenes were choreographed by former professional boxers to ensure authenticity.

Description: Creed is a direct spiritual successor to the Rocky series, focusing on Adonis Creed, the son of Rocky's former rival and friend Apollo Creed. Like Rocky, Creed is a story of an underdog proving himself in the boxing world, with Rocky Balboa himself serving as a mentor. The film maintains the same emotional tone, themes of redemption, and the gritty, realistic portrayal of boxing.

Fact: Creed was directed by Ryan Coogler, who also directed Black Panther. Sylvester Stallone reprised his role as Rocky Balboa and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film was shot in a way to make the boxing scenes look like one continuous take.