“Rocky” Stories

Craig / / 2006, Rocky

“You can’t borrow Superman’s cape. You can’t use the Jedi laser sword. But the steps are there. The steps are accessible. And standing up there, you kind of have a piece of the Rocky pie.” – From the foreword by Sylvester Stallone

Rocky Stories is a book that I bet most SZoners won’t want to miss.

Pulitzer Prize-winners Michael Vitez [bottom left] and Tom Gralish [bottom right] of the Philadelphia Inquirer spent a year visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art to observe, photograph, and capture the stories of the “Rocky runners,” who come from all over the world to run up America’s most famous steps –just as Sylvester Stallone did in “Rocky”.

Written with Sylvester Stallone‘s blessing and featuring a foreword by Sly (who actually dictated it to the author on voicemail over two messages), Rocky Stories also includes interviews with Oscar-winning director John G. Avildsen, composer Bill Conti, and cameraman Garrett Brown.

For more details click HERE. To pre-order a copy at a discounted rate, use the Amazonlink to the left. – Craig

– Craig

“Rocky” Pop-Art Script Poster

Craig / / 2006, Rocky

SZoner,. Peter K. wanted to make sure we knew about a pop-art poster made using all of the dialogue from the “Rocky” script.

Issued by LA Pop Art “in celebration of the 30th anniversary of one of the greatest films and franchises in movie making history… LA Pop Art is honored to be working with MGM Studios and Sylvester Stallone to create this amazing tribute to Rocky…”

For full details, click HERE. – Craig

Limited Edition Rocky Figures and More!

Craig / / 2006, Rocky, Rocky 2, Rocky 3, Rocky 4, Rocky 5, Rocky Balboa

Jeremy Padawer, head of Entertainment Marketing for Jakks Pacific checked in to remind SZoners about the cool line of “Rocky” figures that are they’re producing.

Here’s what Jeremy had to say:

We’re producing the Rocky action figure line – literally manufacturing and marketing practically every important character from the Rocky movies.

Including: Rocky, Adriane, Mick, Paulie, Thunderlips, Roberto Duran, Joe Frasier, Mike Tyson (cameo Rocky Balboa), and 30+ others.

I’m running a promotion on my personal website – http://www.jeremy.com.

Basically, we did a 1:50 Pre-Production Rocky Balboa bronzed figure in a polybag packaging for 2006 NYC Licensing Show. We’re going to follow up with a 1:1000 bronze figure in regular Rocky packaging that we give away on the streets of Philadelphia in late August!

I’m really looking forward to the release of these figures! Check out Jeremy’s Blog for full details and news about other cool products!

– Craig Zablo [July 6, 2006]

Everlast “Rocky” Equipment

Craig / / 2006, Rocky, Training

On June 20, 2006, Everlast Worldwide Inc. announced a licensing agreement with MGM Consumer Products to produce Everlast/Rocky sporting goods and a toy collection to include youth boxing equipment, heavy bags and inflatables.

Set to launch in October of this year to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the original “Rocky” film and the December 22nd release of “Rocky Balboa”, the Everlast/Rocky products will be available at select retailers and online stores. Everlastplans a comprehensive marketing strategy that will include special events, retail promotions, direct mail and cross-promotions featuring all six of the “Rocky” motion pictures and more. Consumer prices for Everlast’s/Rocky merchandise will range from $15 to $60.

Representatives from both Everlast and MGM expressed great excitement about this joint venture. Seth Horowitz, Chairman, President and CEO of Everlast Worldwide, announced, “This license agreement unites two icons, namely the beloved Rockycharacter with Everlast, one of the sporting world’s preeminent brands. The Rockycharacter brings to life Everlast‘s key brand attributes – toughness, durability, and staying power.” Travis Rutherford, executive vice president of MGM Consumer Products and Location Based Entertainment, added, “We are elated to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the “Rocky” franchise and the release of the new Rocky Balboa film,” said . “This co-branded initiative with Everlast will bring a new offering of high-quality products to sports and boxing enthusiasts and Rocky fans through all generations.”

For more details click HERE. – Craig

– Craig

Ernest “Jazzman” Resendes’ Latest Rocky Art

Craig / / 2006, Rocky Balboa, Sly Fan

Ernest “Jazzman” Resendes took some time out from movie-making and music-making for some art-making!
Talk about talented! Here’s what he had to say:

Hey guys, Hope all is well. I’ve been squeazing in some sketching time lately. I’ll see if it gets me any closer to a finished piece.
Here it is…

Peace,
E
http://www.theartofjazzman.com

Gotta love it! Thanks for sharing your talents, Jazz! – Craig