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Rocky #4
Rocky IV
Pugilist, Rocky Balboa, returns to take on a powerful challenger from the Soviet Union
- GenresFictionMedia Tie In
156 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 12, 1985
About the author
Sylvester Stallone
44 books185 followersSylvester Gardenzio Stallone (July 6, 1946 - ) is an American actor, director, producer and screenwriter.
One of the biggest box office draws in the world from the '70s to the '90s, international megastar Sylvester Stallone is a global icon. He has played two characters who have become a part of the American cultural lexicon: Rocky Balboa, the boxer who overcame all odds to fight for love and glory, and John Rambo, a courageous soldier who specialized in violent rescue and revenge missions.
During the 1980s, he enjoyed phenomenal popularity and was one of the biggest movie stars in the world with the Rocky and Rambo franchises. Stallone's culturally influential films changed pop culture history and he has largely enjoyed a career on the Hollywood A list for over 30 years.
He is considered by many (including the mayor of Philadelphia) as the one who made the city of Philadelphia an international tourist attraction with the Rocky Steps. His immense popularity there has led to a statue of his Rocky character being placed permanently near the Philadelphia Museum of Art as a cultural landmark. In August 2007, a statue of Rocky was also erected in the Serbian village of Žitište. Stallone's film Rocky has also been inducted into the National Film Registry as well as having its film props placed in the Smithsonian Museum as a national treasure.
One of the biggest box office draws in the world from the '70s to the '90s, international megastar Sylvester Stallone is a global icon. He has played two characters who have become a part of the American cultural lexicon: Rocky Balboa, the boxer who overcame all odds to fight for love and glory, and John Rambo, a courageous soldier who specialized in violent rescue and revenge missions.
During the 1980s, he enjoyed phenomenal popularity and was one of the biggest movie stars in the world with the Rocky and Rambo franchises. Stallone's culturally influential films changed pop culture history and he has largely enjoyed a career on the Hollywood A list for over 30 years.
He is considered by many (including the mayor of Philadelphia) as the one who made the city of Philadelphia an international tourist attraction with the Rocky Steps. His immense popularity there has led to a statue of his Rocky character being placed permanently near the Philadelphia Museum of Art as a cultural landmark. In August 2007, a statue of Rocky was also erected in the Serbian village of Žitište. Stallone's film Rocky has also been inducted into the National Film Registry as well as having its film props placed in the Smithsonian Museum as a national treasure.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 24, 2011
Sylvester Stallone turns in a book that is no better or worse than many other novelizations. You would expect Rocky Balboa himself to pen a novelization of his own movie (written by! directed by! starring!) that gives deep insight into the personal psychology of Rocky himself, but except for a strange fixation with the word "Minicam" Stallone turns in a novelization that could have been written by pretty much anyone.
One thing we do get more of is Paulie's interaction with the robot. It was a one-off joke in the film, but in the book we see the robot getting Paulie drunk and flirting with him. Rocky himself demonstrates a lot of unease around Paulie's new companion. "He had only bought the robot as a joke. It seemed to be turning into more than a machine."
This subplot comes to a climax the night before everyone heads to Vegas for Apollo Creed's bout with Ivan Drago. Paulie spends the entire night before the trip hidden away somewhere, "partying" with Rocky's robot. Then, apparently unable to slake his sick appetites on its cold, plastic chassis, he spends all his time in Vegas trying to pick up hookers. They can sense that he is into machines, and refuse to even give him a discount. Sorry, Paulie!
One thing we do get more of is Paulie's interaction with the robot. It was a one-off joke in the film, but in the book we see the robot getting Paulie drunk and flirting with him. Rocky himself demonstrates a lot of unease around Paulie's new companion. "He had only bought the robot as a joke. It seemed to be turning into more than a machine."
This subplot comes to a climax the night before everyone heads to Vegas for Apollo Creed's bout with Ivan Drago. Paulie spends the entire night before the trip hidden away somewhere, "partying" with Rocky's robot. Then, apparently unable to slake his sick appetites on its cold, plastic chassis, he spends all his time in Vegas trying to pick up hookers. They can sense that he is into machines, and refuse to even give him a discount. Sorry, Paulie!
December 11, 2015
When it comes to novelizations, there's one thing I think is tremendously important that other readers should know--assuming they don't know: When it comes to writing novelizations, the writers have an extremely small window to work with when penning a novel from a script that is made up of dialogue and little information regarding actual action. Most writers, at best, get several weeks to work on the entire novelization; including time to look over the script and take down as many notes as possible. My point in all of this? Most novelizations don't go through a great writing and editing process. The result, most of the time, is a final piece of work that does feel very rushed. My other point: Give the authors a break. They and the publishers realize that the final product is nowhere near perfect. With "Rocky IV," Stallone wrote the novelization. Bear in mind that he wrote, starred, and directed the movie on top of numerous other responsibilities. I'm sure his plate was more than full when sitting down to write this novelization.
With all of that out of the way, I have to say that, as one of the biggest Rocky fans, I really did enjoy this novelization. Sure, there were a couple misspelled words, some punctuation errors, and other grammatical errors, but all of that aside, this is a great companion to the movie.
So much about the novel is very different from what we see on screen. Rarely is that the case. So many novelizations are extremely identical to the movies that it's not worth picking them up most of the time. Not "Rocky IV." Sure, much of the dialogue here remains in the film and is even tweaked in some spots. But so much is different. Here are some examples: Adrian is pregnant; we get more time with Drago and his people; Paulie is given a larger presence; Drago is painted as sympathetic in some scenes.
Many of these scenes add so much more depth to the characters and the story at large. One of the most powerful scenes included Cora staring at Rocky during Apollo's funeral and saying, "He was your friend! Why didn't you do anything?" It's a scene that I would have loved to have seen in the movie.
But certain story moments end up going nowhere in the novel. Adrian's pregnancy is brought up several times and really seems to be a tool used to potentially get Rocky not to fight Drago. After that, it's never mentioned again. Attempting to make Drago a sympathetic character was a really interesting move, but by the end of the novel, it doesn't matter, as we're supposed to hate Drago after we read how he talks to Rocky about killing him and cursing at him. The anabolic steroids is brought up at the first press conference (like in the movie) but nothing is made of it again despite the reader being told about Drago's immense punching power. Rocky initially trains at Mickey's gym, but he quickly abandons that plan to head for Siberia, because he's getting too many onlookers and reporters disrupting his training.
Some of those things would have worked had they been fleshed out better, or, as the case is with Mickey's gym and Adrian's pregnancy, some of those should have been left out.
The book is far from perfect, but it adds so much more depth to what the final movie could have been. It's a great companion piece that Rocky fans need to check out and get a closer look at the initial story of the movie.
With all of that, do I prefer the book or the movie? While the book gives us more depth and detail in most scenes, I prefer the movie much more. The movie is better edited and streamlined from a story perspective. Drago is not sympathetic in the movie (unless you read between the lines during the final fight), Adrian isn't pregnant, there is no Mickey's gym, there aren't extensive training sequences in Las Vegas, etc. The movie does a better job at telling a simpler story that doesn't get bogged down in many dead end story strands.
Again, I'm not saying the book isn't worth the read. It most certainly is. I just think, when it comes down to which format is better, the movie is better in the long run.
With all of that out of the way, I have to say that, as one of the biggest Rocky fans, I really did enjoy this novelization. Sure, there were a couple misspelled words, some punctuation errors, and other grammatical errors, but all of that aside, this is a great companion to the movie.
So much about the novel is very different from what we see on screen. Rarely is that the case. So many novelizations are extremely identical to the movies that it's not worth picking them up most of the time. Not "Rocky IV." Sure, much of the dialogue here remains in the film and is even tweaked in some spots. But so much is different. Here are some examples: Adrian is pregnant; we get more time with Drago and his people; Paulie is given a larger presence; Drago is painted as sympathetic in some scenes.
Many of these scenes add so much more depth to the characters and the story at large. One of the most powerful scenes included Cora staring at Rocky during Apollo's funeral and saying, "He was your friend! Why didn't you do anything?" It's a scene that I would have loved to have seen in the movie.
But certain story moments end up going nowhere in the novel. Adrian's pregnancy is brought up several times and really seems to be a tool used to potentially get Rocky not to fight Drago. After that, it's never mentioned again. Attempting to make Drago a sympathetic character was a really interesting move, but by the end of the novel, it doesn't matter, as we're supposed to hate Drago after we read how he talks to Rocky about killing him and cursing at him. The anabolic steroids is brought up at the first press conference (like in the movie) but nothing is made of it again despite the reader being told about Drago's immense punching power. Rocky initially trains at Mickey's gym, but he quickly abandons that plan to head for Siberia, because he's getting too many onlookers and reporters disrupting his training.
Some of those things would have worked had they been fleshed out better, or, as the case is with Mickey's gym and Adrian's pregnancy, some of those should have been left out.
The book is far from perfect, but it adds so much more depth to what the final movie could have been. It's a great companion piece that Rocky fans need to check out and get a closer look at the initial story of the movie.
With all of that, do I prefer the book or the movie? While the book gives us more depth and detail in most scenes, I prefer the movie much more. The movie is better edited and streamlined from a story perspective. Drago is not sympathetic in the movie (unless you read between the lines during the final fight), Adrian isn't pregnant, there is no Mickey's gym, there aren't extensive training sequences in Las Vegas, etc. The movie does a better job at telling a simpler story that doesn't get bogged down in many dead end story strands.
Again, I'm not saying the book isn't worth the read. It most certainly is. I just think, when it comes down to which format is better, the movie is better in the long run.
October 2, 2026
How Screenplay differs from Movie: Rocky IV
-Starts right after Rocky III ending of Apollo and Rocky throwing the same punch at same time. They are talking in the locker room after the fight and saying let’s not do this anymore (hurt each other). Rocky then thanks Apollo for everything he did for him. He then asks Apollo where he is going now, Apollo says, “I don’t know…maybe fishing.” Then they both leave the gym. (not in movie)
-During Paulies birthday. When he is blowing out his candles, he asks Rocky Jr to help. When Paulie starts blowing them out, Rocky Jr. dumps water on the rest of them. In the movie, he uses whip cream. I like movie better since at least you can still eat the cake.
-After birthday party, Rocky is in his study on the computer learning English. Adrain comes in and they talk about how they love each other and they are lucky to have each other. (not in movie)
-Robot is following Paulie down the hall asking lots of questions. Paulie slams the door in its face. Then opens it up and lets robot in and says, “no more questions.” (not in movie)
-When Drago has his press conference, Apollo is in a rowboat fishing with a small TV in front of him. The movie has him in a swimming pool with his dogs.
-The press conference has no Ludmilla Drago present. Drago’s manager does all the talking. In the movie it was Ludmilla that did it all.
-in the movie, Apollo calls Rocky while he is washing his Lambo and Rocky Jr is washing the robot. Apollo tells him he is coming to see him. Screenplay has Apollo just shows up to the house and Rocky and Rocky Jr. are studying on the computer.
-When Apollo is at the house he and Rocky go outside and talk about the Russian. Apollo asks if Rocky has committed to fighting Drago, and he says no. (not in movie)
-When Apollo is talking to Rocky, Adrian, and Paulie, Adrian gets mad and goes into kitchen. Rocky goes after her and she tells Rocky she doesn’t approve of Apollo fighting and Rocky being involved. Rocky leaves kitchen and goes back to Apollo and nods his head in acceptance. In the movie, they go and watch their old fight and talk more about it before Rocky decides to help Apollo. This part was in the Rocky III screenplay.
-Apollo calls for a press conference and only 6 reporters show and no TV. He announces that he is going to challenge Drago. They don’t seem to care and want to ask Rocky why he isn’t fighting. Apollo is devastated and upset that no cares about him anymore. (not in movie)
-Apollo and Rocky break through some Russian guards to go find Drago while he is training. When they find Drago Apollo challenges him and his manager says there is no point because Apollo doesn’t matter, Rocky does. Drago pushes Apollo and then cops show up and escort Apollo and Rocky out. (not in movie)
-Drago accepts the fight with Apollo. Again, he has no wife so all her lines are done by his manager. He says they took the fight with Apollo to shut him up.
-During Press Conference, Drago tells Apollo “The more you talk, the worse your defeat will be.” He never talks in Presser in the movie.
-After the presser, Apollo is training with Rocky for the fight. He isn’t taking it that seriously (not like we have seen in past). (not in movie)
-When Apollo comes out to the fight, it’s a big show just like movie but there is no James Brown. Screenplay just says band.
-When Apollo is getting crushed in the ring by Drago, Adrian runs up to the ring and tells Rocky and says “Rocky he’s dying!” (not in movie)
-In Round 2 Duke tells Rocky to stop the fight, Rocky has the white towel and Apollo turns to Rocky and says no. Apollo then unleashes some hits on Drago. Rocky says to Duke “He hurt him!” In movie, Apollo never gets these hits off. He is just pummeled.
-When Drago delivers the “Kill Punch” Apollo falls backward and hits the back of his head on the canvas. Movie has him land face first.
-At Apollo’s funeral, there are camera crews filming it. Rocky tells Apollo’s wife he is sorry. She asks him “Why didn’t you stop it?” The camera crew leader tells cameraman to “get this!” Rocky responds to her with “I’m sorry”. (not in original movie maybe in directors cut)
-Adrian confronts Rocky at funeral and tells him not to fight Drago. That he will lose everything if he does. Rocky tells her “Got to!” (not in movie)
-Movie has the montage and flashbacks when Rocky is driving his Ferrari. This is not in Screenplay.
-Rocky meets with Boxing Commission and they say they won’t sanction the fight since Drago is technically an amateur not pro yet. They said once he gets in the top 10 of contenders, they will sanction the fight. Rocky says that is no Amateur that killed Apollo. (not in movie, maybe directors cut)
-In presser with Drago, its is very different in screenplay. Adrian is there; she is not in the movie. They talk about Rocky losing the title to fight Drago and if Drago still wants to fight Rocky without the belt. They do because he did not “lose” it to someone. Adrian not happy about the conditions of where and when the fight will be. Drago talks at presser.
-Rocky and Paulie meet Duke in an American Gym to start training. A local sportscaster comes over to interview Rocky and asks lots of tough questions and asks Rocky if he is fighting for glory or guilt. (not in movie).
-After the gym, Rocky and Paulie go back home. A women’s group is out front of his house to greet him. They tell him he is an inspiration and give him an American Flag that has been flown over the capital.
-When Rocky and Paulie go inside, 2 men are waiting to talk to Rocky. They are from the FBI and tell him that he should not fight. The fight is a representation of both countries. They have done a computer data reading on the fight and Rocky will lose so in turn, America will lose. Adrian stands up for Rocky saying they can’t do that and he has every right to fight. They threaten to revoke his passport. (not in movie)
-Rocky is training in a Gym with tons of spectators. Paulie and him talk about Adrian and Rocky says she is going to have another baby. (not in movie)
-Group of Veterans interrupt Rocky’s training to give him a hat. Then they take a picture with him. (not in movie)
-Rocky is in his living room at night packing all his boxing trophies and awards. Adrian comes down and asks why he is doing that, Rocky tells her he needs to think about now and not the past. He needs to leave to get away from distractions. Then the argument is basically the same as the movie except she does reference not going for Rocky Jr. & the baby.
-When Rocky and Paulie leave for Russia, Rocky and Adrian embrace and kiss before he leaves. The movie show her looking out the window as he leaves (obviously still in a fight).
-In the training montage, Rocky had 1 picture of Adrian, 1 of Roky Jr., 1 of Drago. During different parts of the montage, he take Adrian’s picture down, then Rocky Jr’s.
-Some things in the movie not in the screenplay during the training montage: No Duke speech about going through hell (which I loved in the movie. Duke was such an awesome Rocky character). He doesn’t crumble up Drago’s picture. When Adrian arrives, the training really ramps up in the movie. In screenplay, after Adrian arrives, they jump into the fight night, no more training. The movie training montage was much better.
-Screenplay does not have the revealing of Drago’s big sign like the movie did.
-During the fight in the first round when Rocky is getting crushed, Adrian goes ringside and tells Paulie to stop the fight. Duke tells him “Don’t”. (not in movie)
-After round 2 when the Drago has been cut for the first time, he tell Rocky “I will kill you!’’ Rocky says to him “Drago! …You’re bleeding.” (not in movie) I wish this was in movie. I love him saying that to Drago.
-In between round 2 and 3, Drago has long dialogue with corner men. Asking about his eye and says Rocky fight like an animal.
-Screenplay does not have the “No Pain!” back and forth between Duke and Rocky. I loved that in the movie. Duke has much more of a presence in the movie, which I am glad about.
-Screenplay has Rocky knocking Drago out of ring and no 10 count.
-Screenplay does not have the political speech at the end.
-Starts right after Rocky III ending of Apollo and Rocky throwing the same punch at same time. They are talking in the locker room after the fight and saying let’s not do this anymore (hurt each other). Rocky then thanks Apollo for everything he did for him. He then asks Apollo where he is going now, Apollo says, “I don’t know…maybe fishing.” Then they both leave the gym. (not in movie)
-During Paulies birthday. When he is blowing out his candles, he asks Rocky Jr to help. When Paulie starts blowing them out, Rocky Jr. dumps water on the rest of them. In the movie, he uses whip cream. I like movie better since at least you can still eat the cake.
-After birthday party, Rocky is in his study on the computer learning English. Adrain comes in and they talk about how they love each other and they are lucky to have each other. (not in movie)
-Robot is following Paulie down the hall asking lots of questions. Paulie slams the door in its face. Then opens it up and lets robot in and says, “no more questions.” (not in movie)
-When Drago has his press conference, Apollo is in a rowboat fishing with a small TV in front of him. The movie has him in a swimming pool with his dogs.
-The press conference has no Ludmilla Drago present. Drago’s manager does all the talking. In the movie it was Ludmilla that did it all.
-in the movie, Apollo calls Rocky while he is washing his Lambo and Rocky Jr is washing the robot. Apollo tells him he is coming to see him. Screenplay has Apollo just shows up to the house and Rocky and Rocky Jr. are studying on the computer.
-When Apollo is at the house he and Rocky go outside and talk about the Russian. Apollo asks if Rocky has committed to fighting Drago, and he says no. (not in movie)
-When Apollo is talking to Rocky, Adrian, and Paulie, Adrian gets mad and goes into kitchen. Rocky goes after her and she tells Rocky she doesn’t approve of Apollo fighting and Rocky being involved. Rocky leaves kitchen and goes back to Apollo and nods his head in acceptance. In the movie, they go and watch their old fight and talk more about it before Rocky decides to help Apollo. This part was in the Rocky III screenplay.
-Apollo calls for a press conference and only 6 reporters show and no TV. He announces that he is going to challenge Drago. They don’t seem to care and want to ask Rocky why he isn’t fighting. Apollo is devastated and upset that no cares about him anymore. (not in movie)
-Apollo and Rocky break through some Russian guards to go find Drago while he is training. When they find Drago Apollo challenges him and his manager says there is no point because Apollo doesn’t matter, Rocky does. Drago pushes Apollo and then cops show up and escort Apollo and Rocky out. (not in movie)
-Drago accepts the fight with Apollo. Again, he has no wife so all her lines are done by his manager. He says they took the fight with Apollo to shut him up.
-During Press Conference, Drago tells Apollo “The more you talk, the worse your defeat will be.” He never talks in Presser in the movie.
-After the presser, Apollo is training with Rocky for the fight. He isn’t taking it that seriously (not like we have seen in past). (not in movie)
-When Apollo comes out to the fight, it’s a big show just like movie but there is no James Brown. Screenplay just says band.
-When Apollo is getting crushed in the ring by Drago, Adrian runs up to the ring and tells Rocky and says “Rocky he’s dying!” (not in movie)
-In Round 2 Duke tells Rocky to stop the fight, Rocky has the white towel and Apollo turns to Rocky and says no. Apollo then unleashes some hits on Drago. Rocky says to Duke “He hurt him!” In movie, Apollo never gets these hits off. He is just pummeled.
-When Drago delivers the “Kill Punch” Apollo falls backward and hits the back of his head on the canvas. Movie has him land face first.
-At Apollo’s funeral, there are camera crews filming it. Rocky tells Apollo’s wife he is sorry. She asks him “Why didn’t you stop it?” The camera crew leader tells cameraman to “get this!” Rocky responds to her with “I’m sorry”. (not in original movie maybe in directors cut)
-Adrian confronts Rocky at funeral and tells him not to fight Drago. That he will lose everything if he does. Rocky tells her “Got to!” (not in movie)
-Movie has the montage and flashbacks when Rocky is driving his Ferrari. This is not in Screenplay.
-Rocky meets with Boxing Commission and they say they won’t sanction the fight since Drago is technically an amateur not pro yet. They said once he gets in the top 10 of contenders, they will sanction the fight. Rocky says that is no Amateur that killed Apollo. (not in movie, maybe directors cut)
-In presser with Drago, its is very different in screenplay. Adrian is there; she is not in the movie. They talk about Rocky losing the title to fight Drago and if Drago still wants to fight Rocky without the belt. They do because he did not “lose” it to someone. Adrian not happy about the conditions of where and when the fight will be. Drago talks at presser.
-Rocky and Paulie meet Duke in an American Gym to start training. A local sportscaster comes over to interview Rocky and asks lots of tough questions and asks Rocky if he is fighting for glory or guilt. (not in movie).
-After the gym, Rocky and Paulie go back home. A women’s group is out front of his house to greet him. They tell him he is an inspiration and give him an American Flag that has been flown over the capital.
-When Rocky and Paulie go inside, 2 men are waiting to talk to Rocky. They are from the FBI and tell him that he should not fight. The fight is a representation of both countries. They have done a computer data reading on the fight and Rocky will lose so in turn, America will lose. Adrian stands up for Rocky saying they can’t do that and he has every right to fight. They threaten to revoke his passport. (not in movie)
-Rocky is training in a Gym with tons of spectators. Paulie and him talk about Adrian and Rocky says she is going to have another baby. (not in movie)
-Group of Veterans interrupt Rocky’s training to give him a hat. Then they take a picture with him. (not in movie)
-Rocky is in his living room at night packing all his boxing trophies and awards. Adrian comes down and asks why he is doing that, Rocky tells her he needs to think about now and not the past. He needs to leave to get away from distractions. Then the argument is basically the same as the movie except she does reference not going for Rocky Jr. & the baby.
-When Rocky and Paulie leave for Russia, Rocky and Adrian embrace and kiss before he leaves. The movie show her looking out the window as he leaves (obviously still in a fight).
-In the training montage, Rocky had 1 picture of Adrian, 1 of Roky Jr., 1 of Drago. During different parts of the montage, he take Adrian’s picture down, then Rocky Jr’s.
-Some things in the movie not in the screenplay during the training montage: No Duke speech about going through hell (which I loved in the movie. Duke was such an awesome Rocky character). He doesn’t crumble up Drago’s picture. When Adrian arrives, the training really ramps up in the movie. In screenplay, after Adrian arrives, they jump into the fight night, no more training. The movie training montage was much better.
-Screenplay does not have the revealing of Drago’s big sign like the movie did.
-During the fight in the first round when Rocky is getting crushed, Adrian goes ringside and tells Paulie to stop the fight. Duke tells him “Don’t”. (not in movie)
-After round 2 when the Drago has been cut for the first time, he tell Rocky “I will kill you!’’ Rocky says to him “Drago! …You’re bleeding.” (not in movie) I wish this was in movie. I love him saying that to Drago.
-In between round 2 and 3, Drago has long dialogue with corner men. Asking about his eye and says Rocky fight like an animal.
-Screenplay does not have the “No Pain!” back and forth between Duke and Rocky. I loved that in the movie. Duke has much more of a presence in the movie, which I am glad about.
-Screenplay has Rocky knocking Drago out of ring and no 10 count.
-Screenplay does not have the political speech at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2026
After I watched both theatrical and director’s cut of Rocky IV, it makes sense to read the novelization of it so I understand the difference and story gap between these versions. Well, for me, this is THE best version of Rocky IV I’ve come across so far!
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The story is the same like in both cut of the film: Russian boxer Ivan Drago challenges Rocky for a fight, but his friend, Apollo, takes that chance instead and it costs him life. So, Rocky decides to take a revenge once and for all. However, this book is the most “fleshed out” version of the story. While the original cut has superb montages and director’s cut inserts a few more scenes that try to give background and reasonable reasons for characters (but it is outweighed by disappointing elements there), the Stallone’s penned version of the same events give us the most realistic tale of Rocky IV. I know what you think. The premise sounds laughable and campy to begin with, how do they make it more serious? Well, this book surprisingly surpasses my expectation by giving more details in anything, from people to event.
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All the details of elements that can’t be found in both versions can be read at the end of this review, but, to sum up, it emphasizes a lot more on theme about “change” since Rocky drives through his old neighborhood in first movie to see how much it changes, Apollo talks about how he prefers old cars instead of modern technology of the new ones, and how Paulie gets old throughout the years. Plus, Apollo appears a lot more to give a lengthy training process with Rocky before the fight with Drago. This makes us feel more sympathize with him since we see more friendly moments between these two characters and deeper motivation for him to do the fight, which makes us feel sad when he’s gone (by the way, the fight takes place in the middle of the book! Unlike the film in which Apollo saga ends around the first 30 minutes).
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And yes, we also have background for Drago and his wife too. But it doesn’t come without flaws. Several scenes go on far too long (the Apollo training with Rocky and how Paulie loses money at Las Vegas), the training montage doesn't go well here since it keeps going back and forth between what Rocky and Drago are doing, and there’s actually a plot point that comes and goes without any impact: Adrian MIGHT be pregnant again! It only comes so Adrian can beg Rocky not to go to fight and that’s it. It’s almost as bad as the “cancer” subplot in The Room and I’m glad Sly cuts it in the film.
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By the time this book ends, I’m surprised how much I enjoy this book. Stallone could have been a fiction writer when he didn’t make films actually because what he wrote here is pure fun! In fact, instead of releasing uncut version of Cobra and Rocky V, he could have written those books instead and I don’t think there would be any complaints if he did it right like this one. Rocky IV novelization is a must for fans of this flick!
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(Here are all elements and plot points not featured in theatrical/director’s cut)
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Begins with part 3 recap (along with the same "Too bad we gotta get old" quote as in the theatrical cut) and more dialogue with Apollo. More insights on both Rocky and Apollo about to become ex-celebrity
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Paulie gets more focused on being older and how he changed his look since he was a kid
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Rocky drives past his old neighborhood, which is changed a lot
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A ROBOT IS HERE! More humorous interaction between him and Paulie
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(There's even thoughts from pilot and stewardess who serve Drago's gang!)
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Drago's manager (Koloff - a diplomat) tries to take control of everything, including Drago's interview
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Apollo now works as sports commentator and talk show guest. Still has an ego and wants to prove something.
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Rocky doesn't want his son to box, so he tells him to use educational computer
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Apollo's foreshadowing dialogue: he hates new car technology and doesn't want any change to that. Symbolises how he still believes he can fight Drago. Then he persuades Rocky to fight Drago first, when he refuses Apollo decides to take it instead.
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Koloff is pressured by USSR authorities to humiliate US boxers through the matches
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Apollo had bad experience while doing telecast in Russia for 1980 Olympics, which made him hated the country even more.
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"What is worth getting hurt for at this point in your life?!" - Adrian . She’s also comparing Apollo's decision like the Dark Ages "when tribes sent out their best fighters to kill each other"
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Focus on how phony Ludmilla is. Several of her answers to the press are clearly rehearsed and fake. (She still lies about Drago’s steroid usage like in the film)
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(Sly wrote about a history of Las Vegas for about a page there!)
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A LOT more details on Apollo’s training before the Las Vegas fight and how Apollo doesn’t take his training seriously, like what Rocky did in Rocky 3. So Rocky trains him more and more each day. He thinks Apollo needs another week of training though, although this training part goes on a bit too long.
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Paulie gambles terribly (foreshadowing how he ruins Rocky’s financial situation in Rocky 5) and actually misses the robot since he’s lonely!. Also, there’s an unnecessary part in which Paulie flirts with a girl there.
.
Backstory on Drago and Ludmilla’s relationship. They met during 1980 Olympic training. She was a swimmer. He was a boxer. Drago grew up very poorly with an alcoholic dad and tarts-selling mom. He was a small-time criminal first and then trading stuffs in black market. Then, his friend was arrested for selling novel Lolita (“distributing anti-Soviet material”), so he worked in a mine instead and accidentally became a star since there was a documentary shot there as well. Moscow officials saw this film and decided to turn him into boxer. Meanwhile, Ludmilla was born in Kiev and started swimming training since she was right.
.
(Only three pages of Drago training!)
.
Adrian MIGHT be pregnant!
.
(The Vegas fight starts in the MIDDLE of the book, instead of very early on like in the film.)
.
No James Brown performance.
.
It’s explained more that Rocky doesn’t throw the towel because Apollo shakes his head when he’s about to throw it. However, he later throws the towel after Cora (Apollo’s wife) begs him, but it’s too late since Drago pushes the referee away to punch even more.
.
Also, the referee doesn’t stop the fight because he thinks Creed could make a comeback and the crowd would be pissed if he stopped it now.
.
Apollo dies from haemorrhaging
.
Drago brags about beating an “old” boxer
.
Rimsky (Drago’s coach) is the one who says “If he dies, he dies” here instead of Drago.
.
Koloff and Ludmilla actually attend Apollo’s funeral. They apologise.
.
Philadelphia major restores Mickey’s gym once again so Rocky could train there.
.
It’s revealed that Tony, Rocky’s loan shark boss in the first two films, gets killed along with his bodyguard at some point before the event of Rocky IV.
.
Two officers from State Department visit Rocky and begs him to cancel Russia fight since it could spark friction between these countries that could lead to World War 3. Government computers all predict that Rocky will lose the match. They make a threat to revoke Rocky’s passport as well, but Rocky doesn’t care
.
Rocky is taking down all of his rewards and trophies since he wants to concentrate more on “now”. He also decides to train in Russia instead of Mickey’s gym because lots of attention and interruption from fans and press.
.
There are 2 caretakers in the Russian barn that Rocky trains inside.
.
The training montage is now text-only description between the series of “[Rocky’s] strength from the land while Drago was being directed further into scientific technology.”
.
There’s only one training montage and it takes place before Adrian’s arrival.
.
Drago says “I will break you” instead of “I must break you”
.
The story is the same like in both cut of the film: Russian boxer Ivan Drago challenges Rocky for a fight, but his friend, Apollo, takes that chance instead and it costs him life. So, Rocky decides to take a revenge once and for all. However, this book is the most “fleshed out” version of the story. While the original cut has superb montages and director’s cut inserts a few more scenes that try to give background and reasonable reasons for characters (but it is outweighed by disappointing elements there), the Stallone’s penned version of the same events give us the most realistic tale of Rocky IV. I know what you think. The premise sounds laughable and campy to begin with, how do they make it more serious? Well, this book surprisingly surpasses my expectation by giving more details in anything, from people to event.
.
All the details of elements that can’t be found in both versions can be read at the end of this review, but, to sum up, it emphasizes a lot more on theme about “change” since Rocky drives through his old neighborhood in first movie to see how much it changes, Apollo talks about how he prefers old cars instead of modern technology of the new ones, and how Paulie gets old throughout the years. Plus, Apollo appears a lot more to give a lengthy training process with Rocky before the fight with Drago. This makes us feel more sympathize with him since we see more friendly moments between these two characters and deeper motivation for him to do the fight, which makes us feel sad when he’s gone (by the way, the fight takes place in the middle of the book! Unlike the film in which Apollo saga ends around the first 30 minutes).
.
And yes, we also have background for Drago and his wife too. But it doesn’t come without flaws. Several scenes go on far too long (the Apollo training with Rocky and how Paulie loses money at Las Vegas), the training montage doesn't go well here since it keeps going back and forth between what Rocky and Drago are doing, and there’s actually a plot point that comes and goes without any impact: Adrian MIGHT be pregnant again! It only comes so Adrian can beg Rocky not to go to fight and that’s it. It’s almost as bad as the “cancer” subplot in The Room and I’m glad Sly cuts it in the film.
.
By the time this book ends, I’m surprised how much I enjoy this book. Stallone could have been a fiction writer when he didn’t make films actually because what he wrote here is pure fun! In fact, instead of releasing uncut version of Cobra and Rocky V, he could have written those books instead and I don’t think there would be any complaints if he did it right like this one. Rocky IV novelization is a must for fans of this flick!
=========================
(Here are all elements and plot points not featured in theatrical/director’s cut)
.
Begins with part 3 recap (along with the same "Too bad we gotta get old" quote as in the theatrical cut) and more dialogue with Apollo. More insights on both Rocky and Apollo about to become ex-celebrity
.
Paulie gets more focused on being older and how he changed his look since he was a kid
.
Rocky drives past his old neighborhood, which is changed a lot
.
A ROBOT IS HERE! More humorous interaction between him and Paulie
.
(There's even thoughts from pilot and stewardess who serve Drago's gang!)
.
Drago's manager (Koloff - a diplomat) tries to take control of everything, including Drago's interview
.
Apollo now works as sports commentator and talk show guest. Still has an ego and wants to prove something.
.
Rocky doesn't want his son to box, so he tells him to use educational computer
.
Apollo's foreshadowing dialogue: he hates new car technology and doesn't want any change to that. Symbolises how he still believes he can fight Drago. Then he persuades Rocky to fight Drago first, when he refuses Apollo decides to take it instead.
.
Koloff is pressured by USSR authorities to humiliate US boxers through the matches
.
Apollo had bad experience while doing telecast in Russia for 1980 Olympics, which made him hated the country even more.
.
"What is worth getting hurt for at this point in your life?!" - Adrian . She’s also comparing Apollo's decision like the Dark Ages "when tribes sent out their best fighters to kill each other"
.
Focus on how phony Ludmilla is. Several of her answers to the press are clearly rehearsed and fake. (She still lies about Drago’s steroid usage like in the film)
.
(Sly wrote about a history of Las Vegas for about a page there!)
.
A LOT more details on Apollo’s training before the Las Vegas fight and how Apollo doesn’t take his training seriously, like what Rocky did in Rocky 3. So Rocky trains him more and more each day. He thinks Apollo needs another week of training though, although this training part goes on a bit too long.
.
Paulie gambles terribly (foreshadowing how he ruins Rocky’s financial situation in Rocky 5) and actually misses the robot since he’s lonely!. Also, there’s an unnecessary part in which Paulie flirts with a girl there.
.
Backstory on Drago and Ludmilla’s relationship. They met during 1980 Olympic training. She was a swimmer. He was a boxer. Drago grew up very poorly with an alcoholic dad and tarts-selling mom. He was a small-time criminal first and then trading stuffs in black market. Then, his friend was arrested for selling novel Lolita (“distributing anti-Soviet material”), so he worked in a mine instead and accidentally became a star since there was a documentary shot there as well. Moscow officials saw this film and decided to turn him into boxer. Meanwhile, Ludmilla was born in Kiev and started swimming training since she was right.
.
(Only three pages of Drago training!)
.
Adrian MIGHT be pregnant!
.
(The Vegas fight starts in the MIDDLE of the book, instead of very early on like in the film.)
.
No James Brown performance.
.
It’s explained more that Rocky doesn’t throw the towel because Apollo shakes his head when he’s about to throw it. However, he later throws the towel after Cora (Apollo’s wife) begs him, but it’s too late since Drago pushes the referee away to punch even more.
.
Also, the referee doesn’t stop the fight because he thinks Creed could make a comeback and the crowd would be pissed if he stopped it now.
.
Apollo dies from haemorrhaging
.
Drago brags about beating an “old” boxer
.
Rimsky (Drago’s coach) is the one who says “If he dies, he dies” here instead of Drago.
.
Koloff and Ludmilla actually attend Apollo’s funeral. They apologise.
.
Philadelphia major restores Mickey’s gym once again so Rocky could train there.
.
It’s revealed that Tony, Rocky’s loan shark boss in the first two films, gets killed along with his bodyguard at some point before the event of Rocky IV.
.
Two officers from State Department visit Rocky and begs him to cancel Russia fight since it could spark friction between these countries that could lead to World War 3. Government computers all predict that Rocky will lose the match. They make a threat to revoke Rocky’s passport as well, but Rocky doesn’t care
.
Rocky is taking down all of his rewards and trophies since he wants to concentrate more on “now”. He also decides to train in Russia instead of Mickey’s gym because lots of attention and interruption from fans and press.
.
There are 2 caretakers in the Russian barn that Rocky trains inside.
.
The training montage is now text-only description between the series of “[Rocky’s] strength from the land while Drago was being directed further into scientific technology.”
.
There’s only one training montage and it takes place before Adrian’s arrival.
.
Drago says “I will break you” instead of “I must break you”
August 3, 2013
Adrian is pregnant! I am not sure where to begin, but I will begin with that.
Prior to this, I believe I have only read one other novelizations of an original screenplay, and that was in 1989 when I read Batman. I remember thinking, "This isn't what happened! He didn't say that!" It was later that I discovered that movie tie-ins of this sort are written before the filming is complete, and so there are often discrepancies between what was originally intended, and the final film. These discrepancies are what make movie tie-ins awesome.
After reading this, I understood the villains so much better...the truth is, Rocky IV is probably the best movie ever, and it is also completely ridiculous. The film is only about 90 minutes long, and about 45 minutes are of montages. One of the montages includes flashbacks to when Apollo Creed was killed. It is a great montage, but it is shown thirty seconds after he died.
Paulie is awesome.
Drago is shown to be a real person. A man with a real love for his wife.
Sometimes, I wondered if Stallone actually wrote the novelization of his screenplay. I just thought, "Why is this guy spending all this time writing this movie tie-in? Shouldn't he be chopping down trees and jabbing steroids in his ass? Who the hell reads movie tie-ins, anyway?" I guess I read movie tie-ins, but besides me, who else? I'm sure someone read it, but is there really a market for novelizations of movies? Anyway, Stallone probably wrote it, because he spent a lot of time talking about how beautiful Ludmilla Drago is, which makes sense because the actress that played that role was his wife.
I would recommend this book to anyone that saw the movie and wanted to know more about Paulie's relationship with the Robot.
Prior to this, I believe I have only read one other novelizations of an original screenplay, and that was in 1989 when I read Batman. I remember thinking, "This isn't what happened! He didn't say that!" It was later that I discovered that movie tie-ins of this sort are written before the filming is complete, and so there are often discrepancies between what was originally intended, and the final film. These discrepancies are what make movie tie-ins awesome.
After reading this, I understood the villains so much better...the truth is, Rocky IV is probably the best movie ever, and it is also completely ridiculous. The film is only about 90 minutes long, and about 45 minutes are of montages. One of the montages includes flashbacks to when Apollo Creed was killed. It is a great montage, but it is shown thirty seconds after he died.
Paulie is awesome.
Drago is shown to be a real person. A man with a real love for his wife.
Sometimes, I wondered if Stallone actually wrote the novelization of his screenplay. I just thought, "Why is this guy spending all this time writing this movie tie-in? Shouldn't he be chopping down trees and jabbing steroids in his ass? Who the hell reads movie tie-ins, anyway?" I guess I read movie tie-ins, but besides me, who else? I'm sure someone read it, but is there really a market for novelizations of movies? Anyway, Stallone probably wrote it, because he spent a lot of time talking about how beautiful Ludmilla Drago is, which makes sense because the actress that played that role was his wife.
I would recommend this book to anyone that saw the movie and wanted to know more about Paulie's relationship with the Robot.
May 2, 2020
"You heard about the Russians, right?" "Yeah, they live in Russia."
After the devastating events of Rocky III, I wasn't expecting to get another devastating event in Rocky IV (I must have blocked the second event from my memory). It makes both films all the worse, when you read the novelizations - you get the punch in the gut twice, if you'll excuse the pun.
This is an excellent novelization, although again, very short - it's 156 pages long, and I feel that there could have easily been another 40-50 pages added. There's so much additional content in the lead up to the Creed/Drago fight, that was clearly cut from the final film, most of which I would have liked to have seen.
The beginning of the novelization is different - it starts off with Apollo and Rocky in the showers (be still, my beating heart and then to see a bearded Stallone in the film - yummy), then flashes back to the Rocky/Clubber Lang fight, before going to Apollo and Rocky's "friendly" match in Goldmills. I do find the beginning of the film quite confusing, as Rocky has a new hat (we find out where this comes from in the book), and it seems to be a couple of years later, as his son is older, but it seems to be a continuation directly after Rocky III - actor who played his son clearly changed, which made me think it was a couple of years later!
There's more scenes of Paulie in the novelization as well. I've complained about how annoying I found him in the previous novelization, and his "me, me, me" attitude still grinds my gears. His ungratefulness at the robot for his 40th (which turns into some weird relationship), when he felt he "deserved" a sports car - thinking that a sports car would turn him into a hit with the ladies. Constantly trying his luck with the slot machines and tables in Las Vegas and then denting Rocky's car.
There's a few scenes of Rocky working in his office, again on an English program to improve his speech and also some history tests, which you see 5 year old Rocky Jnr helping with. There's also an odd scene, right before he gives Adrian her "early" anniversary present (at least he remembers their anniversary) - he splashes cologne on his face and chest and then "he pulled at the elastic of his pyjama bottoms and splashed on a few more drops". Rocky was hoping to get lucky that night! His gift to Adrian was also different - in the film it's a rather hideous snake watch, but in the book, it's a string of pearls.
The Russians don't suddenly just have a press conference, the book actually shows them on the plane and arriving in the airport, prior to the press conference. There's good descriptions of each of the Russians, as seen through the eyes of Michelle (!), the stewardness, who is so bored on the flight, that she wishes a wandering hand would go up her skirt, and can't wait to get to New York to party.
There's quite a bit of insight into Cora's marriage to Apollo, a character who's not seen nearly enough in the films. I suppose all the concentration is given to Adrian, rather than Apollo's marriage. They are described as being complete opposites in the book.
The whole Apollo finding out that the Russians are here and wish to fight (actually Rocky, but never mind) is changed slightly from the film, and the scene where Apollo goes to Rocky to talk it over is extended quite significantly. We also see Apollo training prior to the Drago fight, which was cut from the final film, making the lead up to it quite abrupt. Maybe they felt we'd seen previous training sequences, and obviously we see Rocky training in Russia, so they probably thought one training sequence was enough for the film. But it does show how almost unprepared Apollo and almost uninterested he was for the fight - much like Rocky's training prior to his first fight with Clubber Lang. Apollo seems to prefer the show that he's going to put on, and the attention he's getting for the "exhibition match", than the training. Rocky also shows that he's been heavily influenced by Mickey, while attempting to get Apollo to concentrate and train.
The book also provides some background/family information for Ivan Drago, and his wife, Ludmilla. Ludmilla's background is only a paragraph, so a great deal more brief than Ivan's.
There's also some additional scenes of Adrian prior to flying to Las Vegas to see the Creed/Drago fight and finding out that she's pregnant. She tells Rocky after the fight is over, but I'm unsure if anything ever comes of this, as it's certainly not included in the film, and as far as I can remember, they only had one son - unless it gets mentioned in the next film.
I found that with all these additional scenes, the actual lead up to people starting to arrive in Las Vegas for the Creed/Drago fight, doesn't begin until page 84 and is over by page 101. It feels like it happens a lot quicker in the film, and there's more build up to the training in Russia. I feel like the training in Russia could have had more included, as it feels very cut down, compared to the first half of the book. When you consider that Rocky gets to Russia by page 128, and the book is over by page 156, it does feel incredibly condensed.
We also find out why the United Boxing Federation is not sanctioning the fight with Rocky/Drago, which is bypassed with a brief sentence in the film, and feels like something I missed on my first watch of the movie. Two State Department men also try to persuade Rocky not to go ahead with the fight, but they are clearly unsuccessful.
I have actually surprised myself by enjoying these novelizations. Whilst 1, 3 and 4 have all stuck to the same telling (2 is told completely in Rocky's vernacular) they have felt quite fleshed out, despite often being quite short - there is a lot crammed into them, and makes you wish that these were longer. They are still relatively expensive, so if you see it at a reasonable price, they're definitely worthwhile snapping up. From checking my order history, I've spent £31.58 between the four books, with some being cheaper than others. I am disappointed that there's no more from the series that were novelized, although I'm still hoping that they'll pop up and I just haven't found the right search terms for them as yet. These will definitely be some of the favourites in my novelization collection.
After the devastating events of Rocky III, I wasn't expecting to get another devastating event in Rocky IV (I must have blocked the second event from my memory). It makes both films all the worse, when you read the novelizations - you get the punch in the gut twice, if you'll excuse the pun.
This is an excellent novelization, although again, very short - it's 156 pages long, and I feel that there could have easily been another 40-50 pages added. There's so much additional content in the lead up to the Creed/Drago fight, that was clearly cut from the final film, most of which I would have liked to have seen.
The beginning of the novelization is different - it starts off with Apollo and Rocky in the showers (be still, my beating heart and then to see a bearded Stallone in the film - yummy), then flashes back to the Rocky/Clubber Lang fight, before going to Apollo and Rocky's "friendly" match in Goldmills. I do find the beginning of the film quite confusing, as Rocky has a new hat (we find out where this comes from in the book), and it seems to be a couple of years later, as his son is older, but it seems to be a continuation directly after Rocky III - actor who played his son clearly changed, which made me think it was a couple of years later!
There's more scenes of Paulie in the novelization as well. I've complained about how annoying I found him in the previous novelization, and his "me, me, me" attitude still grinds my gears. His ungratefulness at the robot for his 40th (which turns into some weird relationship), when he felt he "deserved" a sports car - thinking that a sports car would turn him into a hit with the ladies. Constantly trying his luck with the slot machines and tables in Las Vegas and then denting Rocky's car.
There's a few scenes of Rocky working in his office, again on an English program to improve his speech and also some history tests, which you see 5 year old Rocky Jnr helping with. There's also an odd scene, right before he gives Adrian her "early" anniversary present (at least he remembers their anniversary) - he splashes cologne on his face and chest and then "he pulled at the elastic of his pyjama bottoms and splashed on a few more drops". Rocky was hoping to get lucky that night! His gift to Adrian was also different - in the film it's a rather hideous snake watch, but in the book, it's a string of pearls.
The Russians don't suddenly just have a press conference, the book actually shows them on the plane and arriving in the airport, prior to the press conference. There's good descriptions of each of the Russians, as seen through the eyes of Michelle (!), the stewardness, who is so bored on the flight, that she wishes a wandering hand would go up her skirt, and can't wait to get to New York to party.
There's quite a bit of insight into Cora's marriage to Apollo, a character who's not seen nearly enough in the films. I suppose all the concentration is given to Adrian, rather than Apollo's marriage. They are described as being complete opposites in the book.
The whole Apollo finding out that the Russians are here and wish to fight (actually Rocky, but never mind) is changed slightly from the film, and the scene where Apollo goes to Rocky to talk it over is extended quite significantly. We also see Apollo training prior to the Drago fight, which was cut from the final film, making the lead up to it quite abrupt. Maybe they felt we'd seen previous training sequences, and obviously we see Rocky training in Russia, so they probably thought one training sequence was enough for the film. But it does show how almost unprepared Apollo and almost uninterested he was for the fight - much like Rocky's training prior to his first fight with Clubber Lang. Apollo seems to prefer the show that he's going to put on, and the attention he's getting for the "exhibition match", than the training. Rocky also shows that he's been heavily influenced by Mickey, while attempting to get Apollo to concentrate and train.
The book also provides some background/family information for Ivan Drago, and his wife, Ludmilla. Ludmilla's background is only a paragraph, so a great deal more brief than Ivan's.
There's also some additional scenes of Adrian prior to flying to Las Vegas to see the Creed/Drago fight and finding out that she's pregnant. She tells Rocky after the fight is over, but I'm unsure if anything ever comes of this, as it's certainly not included in the film, and as far as I can remember, they only had one son - unless it gets mentioned in the next film.
I found that with all these additional scenes, the actual lead up to people starting to arrive in Las Vegas for the Creed/Drago fight, doesn't begin until page 84 and is over by page 101. It feels like it happens a lot quicker in the film, and there's more build up to the training in Russia. I feel like the training in Russia could have had more included, as it feels very cut down, compared to the first half of the book. When you consider that Rocky gets to Russia by page 128, and the book is over by page 156, it does feel incredibly condensed.
We also find out why the United Boxing Federation is not sanctioning the fight with Rocky/Drago, which is bypassed with a brief sentence in the film, and feels like something I missed on my first watch of the movie. Two State Department men also try to persuade Rocky not to go ahead with the fight, but they are clearly unsuccessful.
I have actually surprised myself by enjoying these novelizations. Whilst 1, 3 and 4 have all stuck to the same telling (2 is told completely in Rocky's vernacular) they have felt quite fleshed out, despite often being quite short - there is a lot crammed into them, and makes you wish that these were longer. They are still relatively expensive, so if you see it at a reasonable price, they're definitely worthwhile snapping up. From checking my order history, I've spent £31.58 between the four books, with some being cheaper than others. I am disappointed that there's no more from the series that were novelized, although I'm still hoping that they'll pop up and I just haven't found the right search terms for them as yet. These will definitely be some of the favourites in my novelization collection.
April 27, 2016
This is great for any Rocky fan! Many details were not included in the film, such as Rocky coming back from his behind-closed-doors fight with Apollo, and Rocky doing educational software with his son. The movie but better!
October 11, 2014
good book
October 27, 2020
Movie recommended by Michal Shapira from WarnerMedia
November 30, 2022
OH YEA. What is there not to like?
-Punching Russians? UH YEA
-Training Montage? OF COURSE
-An Omniscient God That Is A Turtle? YEA!!!
-Punching Russians? UH YEA
-Training Montage? OF COURSE
-An Omniscient God That Is A Turtle? YEA!!!
August 4, 2023
Fascinating first-person novelization of the film. One of Stallone's rare forays into books. Reads almost like a treatment. Super entertaining.
March 12, 2021
A lot deeper and more added scences than the movie. The Russian giant, rock solid and his strength and iron will built in the mines and on the streets on Russia will pummel, humiliate and ultimately see Apollo to his grave. An unstoppable force that will collide with Rocky who will risk everything that he loves to seek revenge. The gloomy, cold, and isolated location will help forge Rocky's determination and turn him into the ultimate fighting machine. Drago will finally experience fear and Rocky will inspire the Russian people with his unrelenting don't give in warrior spirit.
Want to Read
May 3, 2008Drago!!!!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews