Anthony Ippolito Brings Rocky to Life in New Film
Anthony Ippolito, an up‑coming Swiss actor, earned the role of Sylvester Stallone in Peter Farrelly’s I Play Rocky after sending a self‑tape that captured Stallone’s look and mannerisms. The film follows Stallone’s fight to land the original Rocky role and has already sparked buzz at its Toronto pr…
By Felo News Desk · Published
In the quiet corridors of a Zurich sports centre, the clatter of rubber sneakers is interrupted by the thud of a heavy metal door. Inside the four‑by‑four boxing ring sits Anthony Ippolito, a young Swiss actor whose recent arrival in Switzerland is tied to the European premiere of Peter Farrelly’s I Play Rocky. The film, a meta‑narrative about the making of the original Rocky, casts Ippolito in the role of Sylvester Stallone, a casting decision that began with a self‑tape the actor shot in his grandmother’s basement.
From Basement to Big Screen
Ippolito’s journey to the role began when he read about producers working on a film that would chronicle the birth of Rocky. Rather than wait for a callback, he set up a heavy punching bag in his grandma’s basement, filmed a rough self‑tape, and sent it to Farrelly’s team. The tape, which captured Stallone’s distinctive look and drawl, impressed the director so much that the casting process was effectively finished before it even started.
Stallone’s Italian heritage, jet‑black hair, and soulful eyes are mirrored in Ippolito’s appearance, and the actor spent months studying the veteran’s mannerisms. He even worked on the subtle vocal quirks that stem from Stallone’s facial paralysis, a condition caused by a birth injury. The result is a performance that feels authentic from the first frame.
Preparing for a Legend
Preparing for the role required more than mimicry. Ippolito had a year and a half to immerse himself in Stallone’s life and career. He watched every film, interview, and behind‑the‑scenes footage he could find, while also building the physicality required of a boxer. He gained 40 pounds of muscle, a transformation that helped him understand how a body in motion can convey emotion.
Stallone himself became a key resource. Though not officially attached to the film, the actor spent time on Zoom with Ippolito, sharing stories about the early days of his career, the challenges of a facial paralysis, and the parallels between his own underdog story and that of Rocky. These conversations added depth to Ippolito’s portrayal, allowing him to move beyond surface imitation.
Recreating the 1970s
The production team’s attention to detail extended beyond the actor. Costume designer Amy Roth scoured footage of a young Stallone to capture the exact look of his wardrobe, while production designer Anthony Gasparro recreated the sets from the original 1976 film. This meticulous recreation helped ground Ippolito’s performance in a believable era.
Despite the film’s focus on the making of Rocky, there are surprisingly few boxing scenes. Ippolito’s performance relies on a deep understanding of Stallone’s physicality—how he moves when he’s in a fight, how he reacts to a beautiful usher, and how he runs. The actor notes that building physical weight changes how you perceive your body, which in turn informs the way you portray a character.
Premiere and Reception
The Toronto premiere of I Play Rocky was a success, with Variety’s Owen Gleiberman calling it a “cleverly crafted crowd‑pleaser” and praising Ippolito’s authentic portrayal. The film has already sparked conversation about its unique premise: a film about the making of a film that made an icon.
For Ippolito, the film’s reception is both gratifying and humbling. He acknowledges that the project has catapulted him into Oscar discussions, but he remains grounded, noting that the film’s success is a collective achievement. He hopes that audiences will connect personally with the story, just as he did during the making of the film.
Released in a limited U.S. theatrical run on November 6 and expanding nationwide on November 20 via Amazon MGM Studios, I Play Rocky offers a fresh lens on a classic tale. Ippolito’s performance, rooted in extensive research and genuine collaboration with Stallone, brings a new dimension to the legendary character.
In the words of the actor, “You only have one chance to do this.” His preparation and dedication have paid off, delivering a performance that honors the legacy of Rocky while carving out a new space in the cinematic landscape.
Key facts
- Ippolito’s self‑tape secured the role
- Year‑long research into Stallone’s life
- Stallone’s personal guidance
- Meticulous set and costume recreation
- Limited boxing scenes focus on emotional journey
Why it matters
I Play Rocky offers a fresh, self‑reflective look at the creation of one of cinema’s most iconic films, highlighting the power of research and collaboration in biographical storytelling.
Frequently asked questions
What inspired Anthony Ippolito to audition for the role?
He read about the film’s premise and decided to create a self‑tape that showcased his resemblance to Stallone.
Did Ippolito have any prior experience playing iconic roles?
Yes, he portrayed Al Pacino in Paramount+’s miniseries The Offer.
How did Stallone contribute to the film?
Stallone spent time on Zoom with Ippolito, sharing personal stories and advice.
When will I Play Rocky be available in the U.S.?
It opens in limited theaters on November 6 and expands nationwide on November 20.
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “How Oscar-Tipped Rising Star Anthony Ippolito Turned ‘I Play Rocky’ Into ‘I Play Sylvester’: ‘You Only Have One Chance to Do This’”
