Ricky

Like the Rocky franchise that inspired it, "Ricky" is a movie with an abundance of heart. And while the diminutive Ricky McDown, hero of this parallel tale of the quest for love and self-realization, lacks the physical stature of Rocky Balboa, his biggest muscle – his heart – is always in the right place.

"Ricky" is a first of its kind: a romantic comedy that uses the cultural touchstone of Rocky to propel its storyline. Played by Matt Markey, who conceived, wrote and produced the film, the title character mimics and memorializes the pop icon pug throughout his fight to win the love of Tracy – a symbol of out-of-reach romantic fulfillment and social respectability.

As underdogs go, Ricky is among the most endearing – as sincere as he is vulnerable, with a sensitivity that he counterbalances with a boxing regimen meant to toughen him up for his uphill battle for romantic recognition. While his hero-worship of Rocky provides moral inspiration, his transformation from romantic palooka to contender for Tracy's heart is driven by the unwitting heroine Janie, a boxer whose own heart pounds out a sympathetic beat for Ricky. With Janie as a romantic foil, Ricky acquires the grace and grit to bounce back against Brad, his rival for Tracy's affection.

"Ricky" brings together an able cast whose performances seem to complement and enhance each other, giving the movie a cohesive and credible feel. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and true-to-life performances, "Ricky" packs an emotional punch.

Ricky is a charming independent film - it is a story about working hard towards something you thought you always wanted, only later on to realize that you don't really want it after all. You go on Ricky's journey of growth and are there with him in dealing with his own insecurities and watch as he rises above them and finds confidence and empowerment within himself. You find yourself being able to relate to the characters and I thought the group of kids who were snobby and insensitive were hilarious (yet we all secretly wanted to be a part of their world) and we all I think can relate to Ricky during various points of the film. Not going to lie, there is a somewhat awkward scene about massage parlors in the film along with a strip club scene but other than that, check it out if you're bored at home and want some time to kill :)

I am a sucker for a good romantic comedy. To borrow from boxing terms, this one is a total knock out (TKO). I've seen all the Rocky films and loved Rocky's dialogue and heart. It is funny to see that heart and drive and Rocky's distinctive way of talking re-imagined in the form of Ricky. Because of the Rocky connection, it was one my husband enjoyed as well.

Matt Markey delivers with an engaging, humorous script. It was great to have male protagonist for a change. As an actor, Matt Markey delights with his portrayal of the Rocky-inspired character, Ricky! I also loved Sabrina Bolin as Janie...Ricky's lady boxer friend turned love adviser.This clever spin on the often tired and predictable rom-com genre does not disappoint !

Ricky was surprisingly fun and heartwarming. I'm not usually a fan of romantic comedies, but this one is so quirky and delightful that I couldn't resist. I love the use of the Rocky theme mixed with Cyrano. Very clever. I really felt for Ricky and Matt Markey is really good in the role. I'll see it again and be sure I have some buddies over to watch with me. The supporting cast was also excellent. Ricky is a character everyone can relate to and we've all been where he is. This film made me smile and laugh and even got me a bit choked up. I can see that it would appeal to the masses and I'm surprised it never was in the major theaters. It should get out there. See this movie, you'll be glad you did!

I thought Ricky was hilarious. I found the story and the acting to be spot on with the progression of the story. I was laughing so hard at one point my cheeks hurt. I felt the production value overall was very good and you can tell they shot this the right way. If you love Rocky you will love the homage this film makes towards it. If you have ever been through a tough break up you will love this film. The ability to make a break up funny is tough but this movie succeeds in spades. I would recommend this film to anyone who loves comedy. I love comedy and this film truly delivers with the right amount of satire with just enough clout to be a great story worth telling. I saw this film on a Thursday night with my girlfriend and she loved it too, what a funny movie, seriously. Watch Ricky if you want a great laugh.