I PLAY ROCKY

I Play Rocky is the electrifying true story about an unknown actor with an unshakable belief that he wasn't just meant to write Rocky—he was meant to be Rocky Balboa. Told "no" at every turn, Sylvester Stallone risks everything on himself, holding the line on playing the lead against seemingly impossible odds. It's a bet that would pay off beyond anyone's wildest imagination. A struggling actor, Stallone sold his screenplay to producers Irwin Winkler and Robert Chartoff — but United Artists insisted on a known star for the part, and moved the shoot from New York to Philadelphia to save money. Offered escalating sums to give up the role, he refused every time, even as he and his pregnant wife needed the money. Shot in 28 days for $1 million, Stallone persevered -- and the film and the part he'd fought so hard for went on to win Best Picture. A rousing crowd pleaser, I Play Rocky is directed by Academy Award winner Peter Farrelly (Green Book). Q&A with actors PJ Byrne (Irwin Winker) and Jay Duplass (director John G. Avildsen) following the screening.