Starting his career in 1970, Sylvester Stallone has played some of the most iconic film characters. He’s one of the few actors who did one iconic performance after another. His acting career has included inspirational sports movies to macho action films. Honoring the legend and his many accompaniments on the screen, we’ve compiled a list of his best films:
Sylvester Stallone and His Rise to Fame
Sylvester Stallone has had an impressive film career. The iconic actor continues to act to this day. He’s to participate in several upcoming films that are about to be released next year. But how did his career begin? The movie that shot him to fame was Rocky. Sources say he wrote the screenplay himself and refused to sell it to any film production company until he was promised he would participate. Without further ado, let’s check out some of the actor’s greatest performances!
Rocky (1976)
The movie is about a small-time Philadelphia boxer who eventually becomes famous worldwide. When it first came out, the movie was controversial. Still, it received worldwide appreciation, and so did Sylvester Stallone. The actor was nominated for two Oscars, in his first significant performance, for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor. Following the movie’s success, a franchise was established that spanned over the next three decades. All Rocky movies feature the iconic actor.
First Blood (1982)
The Rambo franchise is Stallone’s second most recognizable role. The first movie, First Blood, is based on a novel written by David Morell in 1972. The film epitomizes what Hollywood considers an all-macho action movie. John Rambo (played by Stallone) fires exploding arrows and takes down whole armies. Of course, he’s shirtless most of the time.
Cop Land (1997)
If you’re up to a neo-noir thriller, then the crime film, Cop Land, is ideal for you. The movie tells the story of Garrison, a small New Jersey community where corruption among NYPD officers reigns. While the film’s supporting cast is more than superb, with names like Robert De Niro and Ray Liotta, the star is Sheriff Heflin, played by Sylvester Stallone.
Cliffhanger (1993)
Rescue Ranger Gabriel Walker, played by Stallone, fails to save his best friend’s girlfriend. Following the tragic accident, the character doubts himself and even thinks about leaving that lifestyle behind. But then, he manages to stop some robbers. The film became a box office sensation.
Tango & Cash (1989)
Two of the most successful LAPD detectives, Gabriel Cash, played by Kurt Russell, and Raymond Tango, played by Sylvester Stallone fight to bring down illegal operations. They sure hate each other, and there’s nothing they share in common. But then, in a sudden twist, they’re made to work together. Considered one of Russell’s best movies of all time, the 1989 cop action film, Tango & Cash is a must-see!