November 14th, 2026: Celebrating the enduring legacy of one of cinema’s most iconic underdog stories, PVR INOX Pictures hosted the India premiere of I Play Rocky on November 12, 2026, bringing together prominent names from the Indian entertainment industry for an evening dedicated to the ambition, perseverance and creative conviction behind the making of Rocky. The premiere marked a celebration of a cinematic legacy that continues to inspire audiences across generations, while bringing the extraordinary story behind its creation to the forefront.
The star-studded red carpet witnessed the presence of several celebrities, filmmakers and industry personalities, including Kartik Aaryan, Dabboo Ratnani, Mihir Ahuja, Rithvik Dhanjani, Riddhi Dogra, Vijay Lalwani, Vasan Bala, Tisca Chopra, Ayaz Khan, Taha Shah Badussha and Maniesh Paul, among others. The evening brought together the film fraternity to celebrate a story that goes beyond the boxing ring, exploring the determination and relentless spirit that went into creating a cinematic phenomenon.
Speaking about hosting the India premiere, Mr. Ajay Kumar Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited, said, “Few films have shaped popular culture and the collective imagination of audiences as profoundly as Rocky. Its legacy extends far beyond the boxing ring, representing the extraordinary power of conviction, resilience and the willingness to challenge convention in pursuit of a dream. What makes I Play Rocky particularly compelling is that it takes audiences behind the making of this cultural phenomenon, revealing the determination that transformed an unconventional vision into a defining moment in cinema history. At PVR INOX, we believe in bringing stories that celebrate the art, ambition and transformative power of cinema to audiences on the big screen, and this premiere is a celebration of that very spirit.”
Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited, added, “The enduring appeal of Rocky is a powerful reminder of cinema’s ability to create stories that transcend generations and become part of our collective cultural memory. The journey behind its creation is equally remarkable, demonstrating how creative conviction and perseverance can overcome extraordinary odds. I Play Rocky brings this inspiring story to audiences from a fresh perspective, allowing them to discover the ambition and determination behind a film that went on to become a global phenomenon. We are delighted to bring this cinematic celebration to India and reaffirm the importance of experiencing compelling stories together on the big screen.”
Ms. Nayana Bijli, Lead - Distribution and Licensing, PVR INOX Limited, said, “The stories that remain with us through generations are often those that speak to something deeply human. Rocky has always represented more than sporting triumph; it is a story of self-belief, courage and the determination to keep going when the odds are against you. I Play Rocky captures the extraordinary journey behind that enduring legacy, celebrating the passion and perseverance that brought an iconic story to life. It is wonderful to see a film that honours the spirit of cinema and reminds us of the timeless connection between storytelling and inspiration.”
Directed by Peter Farrelly and starring Anthony Ippolito as Sylvester Stallone, I Play Rocky takes audiences back to the making of the 1976 classic Rocky. The film chronicles the extraordinary journey behind the creation of the iconic sports drama, following a young Stallone as he navigates the challenges of bringing his vision to life, against the odds and with unwavering belief in his story.
Having premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, where it was nominated for the People's Choice Award, I Play Rocky offers a compelling look at the ambition, resilience and conviction that shaped a defining moment in cinematic history.
With its universal message of self-belief, discipline and perseverance, the film revisits the story behind a character who became a global symbol of determination, reminding audiences that sometimes the greatest victories begin with simply refusing to give up.
I Play Rocky releases in cinemas across India on November 13, 2026, through PVR INOX Pictures.
