Sly, the documentary about Sylvester Stallone reveals the backstory behind the creation of the character named Rocky Balboa.
The upcoming Netflix documentary titled “Sly” is poised to provide viewers with an intimate glimpse into the life and career of the iconic Sylvester Stallone. With a career spanning nearly half a century, Stallone has firmly established himself as a central figure in Hollywood, captivating audiences worldwide with his unforgettable roles in various beloved franchises.
Nevertheless, “Sly” goes beyond the familiar characters we associate with Stallone, delving deep into the multifaceted artist behind these iconic portrayals. The documentary skillfully illustrates Stallone’s remarkable journey, encompassing his Oscar-nominated acting and his roles as a writer, director, and producer. It’s a story that could easily be a screenplay, shedding a brilliant light on the man responsible for breathing life into these cherished and enduring characters.
During an interview with Rolling Stone, director Thom Zimny revealed the fascinating origin story of Rocky Balboa’s name. Sylvester Stallone drew inspiration from his former street address – Balboa Boulevard – to create this iconic character.
“This story perfectly encapsulated the same themes I observed in Stallone’s early days, which remain relevant today: self-belief, the power of dreams and ambitions, the inherent beauty of making mistakes, and the serendipitous moments of being in the right place at the right time. Sly had a knack for seeing the world as a source of creative inspiration despite the circumstances. Another great example was his choice to name a character after Balboa Boulevard, the street where he had a dingy, modest apartment. Stallone had such a talent for finding creative inspiration in the world around him.
I hope the audience takes away a new understanding of Sylvester Stallone, the man, the filmmaker, and the artist. I wish for them to recognize how Sly’s movies have woven into the fabric of their lives while also fostering an understanding and appreciation for his work and dedication to storytelling.”
