Peter Farrelly's film "I Play Rocky" is a biopic about Sylvester Stallone's creation of the original Rocky screenplay, and the review praises it as an inspiring underdog story worthy of the 1976 classic itself. The film is significant because it tells the true story of Stallone's determination to write and star in Rocky, refusing studio pressure to cast bigger names, making it Farrelly's most sincere and successful serious work to date. The original Rocky remains a cultural landmark in American cinema, and this film appropriately honours the artistic vision and personal sacrifice behind its creation.

Anthony Ippolito delivers a transformative performance as Stallone, capturing both his wholesome spirit and determination, whilst AnnaSophia Robb brings depth to Sasha Czack with genuinely moving romantic scenes. The supporting cast includes PJ Byrne and Toby Kebbell as the producers Winkler and Chartoff, and Tracy Letts as an eccentric MGM head. The film smartly balances "making of" details with personal drama, focusing on Stallone's pivotal decision to turn down generous financial offers that would have improved his dire living situation, choosing instead to hold out for the chance to star in his own screenplay. Farrelly includes era-specific references and industry in-jokes that ground the story without overwhelming it.