Rocky V (1990)
Rocky V (1990) 
Rocky V takes a bold step by shifting focus from the ring to the struggles of life outside it. After his brutal fight with Ivan Drago, Rocky returns to Philadelphia, only to face financial ruin and health issues that force him into retirement. With no other option, he becomes a mentor to rising boxer Tommy Gunn. However, their bond crumbles when Tommy betrays him for fame, leading to an intense street fight instead of a climactic ring battle.
While the film attempts to bring Rocky back to his roots, it suffers from weak execution. The emotional weight of his downfall is compelling, but the lack of a proper boxing match leaves fans unsatisfied. Tommy Gunn, though played by real-life boxer Tommy Morrison, lacks the charisma of Rockyβs previous rivals. The father-son relationship subplot is touching but underdeveloped.
On the positive side, Stallone delivers a heartfelt performance, and the street fight, though unconventional, is a raw and intense moment. However, Rocky V ultimately falls short compared to its predecessors, making it one of the franchiseβs most criticized entries.
