I feel like everybody knows the basic premise of this film but it’s now gotten old enough that lots of people haven’t really seen it, but it is considered an all-time great. I was surprised by how low-budget and awkward the movie felt at times, but it actually kind of added to it, given the way the titular protagonist Rocky is, himself, a low-budget and awkward guy. It ends up giving the movie a real air of authenticity, along with the way everything about Rocky, the kinds of experiences he has, and his surroundings are so lousy, rough, and raw. In the end, the movie isn’t even really about boxing, it’s about taking and seizing the opportunity to prove to yourself and the world that you aren’t just a lousy bum.