“I Play Rocky” Plays Through the Roof in Toronto – Universal Raves for the Story of How Sylvester Stallone Created the Beloved Character and Movie

“I Play Rocky” is a hit.

A movie about how Sylvester Stallone created his famous character and made the Oscar winning film debuted tonight to raves at the Toronto Film Festival.

In a world of “The Odyssey,” “I Play Rocky” is now a contendah for awards season.

I told you about this movie a while ago when I spoke to “Rocky” producer Irwin Winkler about it. He didn’t have anything to do with this one. He just said, make your movie.

One reviewer who saw the film in Toronto tonight wrote: “I Play Rocky” is a really beautiful reminder of the magic and inspiration in filmmaking, swinging a great emotional punch. Anthony Ippolito is a knockout with an exceptional supporting cast around him, many of whom are sneaky funny. They did a great job here. Tremendous movie.” (Brandon Davis)

Erik Davis of Fandango posted the wild standing ovation.

“I Play Rocky” is directed by Peter Farrelly, who you from “Green Book” all those comedies with his brother. Anthony Ippolito plays young Stallone, with a cast that includes Matt Dillon and Tracey Letts. Like “Green Book,” Farrelly has made the feel good movie of the season. Don’t underestimate the power of that.

Credits just hit on #IPlayRocky and the entire theater is already on its feet. Biggest reaction I’ve seen at #TIFF so far. pic.twitter.com/y7U50bPcW0

— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) September 13, 2026

Director PETER FARRELLY returns to the ring with a WINNER: “I PLAY ROCKY,” a rousing, heartfelt, laugh-out-loud funny & feel-good crowd-pleaser! ANTHONY IPPOLITO is SPECTACULAR as STALLONE! The audience applauded MANY times with a STANDING OVATION! An OSCAR-WORTHY KNOCKOUT #TIFF pic.twitter.com/R2FrSMss7t

— Scott Mantz (@MovieMantz) September 13, 2026