Rocky IV: Rocky Vs. Drago

Same movie, yet oh so very different. I absolutely loved Sylvester Stallone's new reworking of this 80's favourite. More Adrian, Drago and Apollo scenes, a tone more in tune with the other movies in the series, alternative music cues, a terrific final showdown; one where every single blow lands with impact and a much better, more subtle ending. It all plays out to Survivor's Eye of the Tiger now too which just feels right. With less 80s flash and more heart & soul; Rocky IV: Rocky vs. Drago soars. It's highly entertaining stuff and should not be missed. I walked out of the theatre very happy to have seen it on the big screen, with Hearts on Fire, ringing in my ears.

Rocky IV is one of those iconic films from the 80's and maybe even portrays the average persons vision of the Rocky character more even than the original movie. Here we have Stallone's 'Directors Cut' in an attempt to give an upto date or more complete version of this movie from his perspective.

Firstly, the picture has been restored superbly and I was noticing details that would pass you by in the original version. It really looks super clean and sharp.

Regarding content, Stallone seems to want to dial down the aspects that made it so 'iconic 80's' by removing the much derided robot scenes (as an example), as well as removing some of the dated accompanying score. Additions include vocalising some of the fighters thoughts during the epic showdown as well as giving the Drago character more focus.

Unfortunately it seems that the necessary scenes that Stallone desired for this cut were never shot, so it sometimes appears a struggle for him to portray what he wants from the available footage. There are some periods that seem to drag and the necessary emotions are not portrayed from the actors, or the added footage doesn't add value.

Overall a beautifully restored movie but somewhat flawed Directors Cut 7/10.

Awesome alternate version but nowhere near as good as the theatrical version. There are 40 mins of extra scenes that are a great addition but sky has also removed around 40 mins of footage from the theatrical that should never have been removed. Due to his changes there are now several continuity errors, where scenes don't belong and he has also cut most of Brigitte Nielsen's screen time. The flashbacks scenes belong in colour not black and white and the punches are now drowned out so they sound more realistic but I prefer the over the top sounds from the theatrical. Not as good as theatrical.

Thank you for making this updated version Sylvester Stallone. After watching this nostalgic film, you can sense Stallone wanted to make this version for years but due to circumstances, etc. He could not until 2021. Rocky Vs Drago adds new scenes, depth, dialogue and meaning. Personally it lines up better with the Rocky series. You witness the deep friendship between Apollo and Rocky. It's not just about the fight, it's their way of life.

This director's cut shares much more with subtle changes and edits. Still keeping some of those famous Rocky IV training scenes while adding depth. If you're a fan, you'll enjoy it. I certainly did.

As a long time fan of Rocky 4, I was awaiting this in anticipation.

I have to say, I really didn't see it as an improvement over the original at all. It was nice to see the extra scenes but I can see why they were originally cut from the theatrical release in 1987. It's mostly chit chat that's unimportant with a few extra but unimportant lines from Drago. Sly has also taken some of the gorgeous soundtrack by vince di cola away, which was disappointing. The 4k release offers a gorgeous picture which is something to note.

The directors cut felt ironically like a less complete film. It's still great but I prefer the original.