5 Plot Point Breakdown: Rocky IV (1985)

Screenplay Genre: Sports Drama

Movie Time: 91 minutes

1. INCITING INCIDENT

Apollo Creed, a retired heavyweight champion, hears a news report on his poolside TV. The Soviet Union has entered the world of professional boxing and its prized specimen, Ivan Drago, is ready for a bout with Rocky Balboa. (00:10:02)

2. LOCK IN (End of Act One)

Things get hairy at a press conference between Apollo Creed and Ivan Drago. Tempers flare and verbal bombshells are dropped. The two fighters depart, ready to resolve their differences in an exhibition bout in Las Vegas, Nevada.  (00:20:07)

3. FIRST CULMINATION (Midpoint)

Apollo Creed dies, the victim of Ivan Drago’s superhuman strength. After a poignant funeral where he reminds all in attendance that Apollo was “the best”, Rocky challenges Drago to a fight in Moscow on Christmas day. (00:33:46)

4. MAIN CULMINATION (End of Act Two)

After Adrian comes to Russia to show her unwavering support, Rocky kicks his training into high gear, preparing for his fight against Drago using old-fashioned methods. In contrast, Drago prefers high-tech equipment and high doses of anabolic steroids to gain the advantage. (01:04:04)

5. THIRD ACT TWIST

The crowd turns against Drago, cheering for Rocky as the feisty American pummels his opponent, forcing an epic showdown in the final round. (01:18:00)

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