Stallone Biopic 'I Play Rocky' Earns Standing Ovation at TIFF Premiere

The film "I Play Rocky" received a standing ovation at its world premiere during the Toronto International Film Festival on Saturday night, September 13, 2026. The biographical drama, directed by Peter Farrelly, chronicles the underdog story of Sylvester Stallone's struggle to create and star in the 1976 classic "Rocky." The premiere audience at TIFF embraced the movie, with director Farrelly describing the reaction as a "high." The film stars relative newcomer Anthony Ippolito as a young Sylvester Stallone, capturing his journey from obscurity to Hollywood breakthrough. Ippolito, 27, received significant critical praise for his portrayal, with reviewers noting his uncanny depiction of Stallone's distinctive voice and mannerisms. Farrelly stated he would not have made the film without Stallone's personal blessing, which he received after the actor read the script. "I said from the beginning I'm not going to make the movie unless Sylvester Stallone signs off on it," Farrelly told reporters on the red carpet. "And he read the script and said go ahead, and he saw the movie, he was very happy, thank God.