Sylvester Stallone’s cinematic legacy is marked by his characters’ resilience, a trait that the actor himself embodies. The Netflix documentary ‘Sly’ offers an intimate look at Stallone’s life, revealing his steadfast avoidance of filming death scenes for his characters, which he attributes to the underlying message of hope he wishes to convey to his audience. This philosophy is a thread that runs through his portrayals of enduring figures like Rocky and Rambo.
The documentary also touches on a more personal note, addressing the pain Stallone faced following the death of his son, Sage Stallone, in 2012. While Stallone has been private about this aspect of his life, ‘Sly’ approaches the subject with sensitivity, shedding light on the impact of Sage’s death on Stallone’s personal and professional journey.
Thom Zimny, the director, emphasizes the ‘no boundaries’ approach taken during the interviews, allowing for candid discussions about Stallone’s life events and their influence on his work. The film also revisits Stallone’s role in ‘Cop Land,’ a departure from his usual action-packed performances, which he feels did not resonate with audiences as he had hoped.
At 77, Stallone continues to be driven by his artistic pursuits, whether it’s in film, scriptwriting, or painting, showcasing his relentless spirit and dedication to his craft. ‘Sly’ captures the essence of Stallone’s character: a man who has faced adversity, both in his roles and in life, yet continues to inspire hope through his enduring presence in the film industry.