Now nearing 50 years, the Rocky franchise is just as determined and durable as Rocky "The Italian Stallion" Balboa. Created by Sylvester Stallone, the first film came out in 1976 and the franchise is still going strong to this day. While Rocky won Best Picture, to date there have been 9 films in the franchise, and to say all of them aren't Oscar winners is like saying Paulie is a decent human being.
Like Rocky's own career, the series has had its highs and lows, its ups and downs, its Apollo Creed and its…robot Rocky gets for Paulie? Again, the series has had some low points. But like the Philadelphia pugilist when it hits it can knock you out. With that in mind, let's take a look at this long-running film franchise, starting from the bottom then running up the steps before raising our arms in triumph when we reach the top.