Rocky III

Did somebody say “formula”? The challenge for Rocky III was to find someone for Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) to fight who was more arrogant than Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers), with whom Rocky has now become friends. Enter Clubber Lang (Mr. T), who is Ali on speed. Rocky loses his bout at great personal loss, but Creed coaxes Rocky out of self-exile, helping him get the “eye of the tiger,” and becomes Rocky’s trainer, so Rocky can finish what Clubber started. Cue Big Match.

ClearPlay In Action!

ClearPlay cuts some boxing violence, suggestive comments, and sporadic profanity in this third installment in the Rocky franchise. The movie places stock in being humble and keeping your mouth shut, things Clubber fails to do. It also gives high marks for being faithful and loyal. If you think your kids can handle boxing action, the movie is okay for just about anyone.

Have I been Rope-a-Doped into another Rocky?...

Some viewers think Rocky III is the best of the series. I’m not one of them. It’s certainly cartoonish, with paper villains, a spike in body count, and a pre-packaged song marketed to be a hit. It moves well and has some funny moments, about what you could expect from something with increasing Roman numerals.

Marty Nabhan, ClearPlay Kidney Puncher

Rated PG; 99 mins; Directed by Sylvester Stallone