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.
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.