Sylvester Stallone's Rocky is universally considered a classic film. Winning several Oscars, launching the acting career of Stallone himself (perhaps not the best long-term consequence...) and inspiring several people to climb the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, practically everyone cheered "L 'Italian stallion'. in his fight against Apollo Creed and knows Rocky Balboa as a household name. However, what most people don't realize is that the film contains several ideas related to Italian-American identity and coincides with many stereotypes and images previously presented to Italian-Americans. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The most obvious clue to Italian-American identity is the setting of the film itself. The action of “Rocky” takes place in Philadelphia, a city located on the East Coast. The point of immigration was Ellis Island, and the East Coast is full of vibrant Italian-American communities. Virtually all significant examples of cinema involving Italian-Americans take place on the East Coast ("The Godfather" [New York], "Goodfellas" [New York], "The Sopranos" [New Jersey]) and "Rocky" is no exception. . Plus, “Rocky” takes place in the seedy suburbs of Philadelphia. This is a commentary on the fact that, throughout history, Italian Americans have not been able to afford to live in wealthy neighborhoods and are associated with "sketchy" urban environments. “Rocky” also fulfills several Italian-American stereotypes. The main character in question is relatively stupid, simple-minded, and is seen as a bully who is only good for his physical abilities. This is consistent with the Italian-American “palooka” stereotype of other boxing films such as “The Golden Boy” and “Raging Bull.” The mob stereotype is also present. Rocky works as a "collector" for a local gangster named Gazzo (another Italian-American). Even the stereotype of “Romeo” has slight representation; Rocky relentlessly pursues Adrian in a forthright, confident, and downright "pushy" manner, all characteristics of the way "guidos" run. For all these unremarkable appearances of Italian-American stereotypes, some positives are also present. . Rocky works hard and is focused to the point of stubborn behavior, a trait many of us associated with Italian-Americans when we did the activity involving preconceptions at the beginning of the semester. The belief that Italian Americans are always seeking to improve their social status and that of those they love is also present in this activity and in the film. Rocky is not satisfied with the cards life has dealt him and trains tirelessly to try his luck at Apollo Creed, which represents a successful and fulfilling lifestyle. Additionally, I believe Rocky sees that Adrian is not living a life that fulfills her and is courting her with the intention of making her happier. Another interesting finding is that the film is also a very subtle commentary on race relations. Italian Americans and African Americans have come into conflict because they have historically shared the same living areas, conditions, and social status. It seems like too much of a coincidence that Apollo Creed is African-American. Perhaps the fight between him and Rocky is a representation of a much larger battle. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Personalized Essay Of course, it's possible to enjoy "Rocky" without realizing it or.