In a recent star-studded event, Sylvester Stallone, a stalwart in the Hollywood action genre, took the stage at the world premiere of his biographical documentary, “Sly.” The occasion provided both fans and media a rare peek into the life and career of an actor who has defined and redefined action cinema for nearly five decades.
The Last of the Dinosaurs
During the event, Stallone coined himself as “the last of the dinosaurs,” a phrase meant to encapsulate his enduring presence in a fast-evolving film industry. He elaborated on this sentiment, stating, “Society is changing, the commerciality in cinema, it’s faster. So longevity would become a premium.” This viewpoint underscores Stallone’s unique standing as one of the few ’80s action stars who still headline movies today.
A Look Back at the Action Genre
Sylvester Stallone’s comments also prompted a reflection on the action genre, particularly its transformation since the 1980s. Stallone credited Arnold Schwarzenegger, another ’80s action icon, for revolutionizing the genre by making it reliant on physicality rather than dialogue. In contrast to earlier action films that often focused on car chases and intellectual narratives, both Stallone and Schwarzenegger heralded an era where the body became a storytelling medium.
A Rivalry Turned Friendship
Stallone candidly discussed his past rivalry with Schwarzenegger, stating they “really disliked each other immensely” during their heyday. However, the competition eventually fostered a deep friendship. Both actors felt they were pioneers in a new action genre that has seldom been replicated since.
Upcoming Projects
At 77, Stallone shows no signs of slowing down. Fans can look forward to the fourth installment of the Expendables franchise, aptly titled “Expend4bles,” set for release on September 22, 2023. Stallone also stars in the Paramount+ series “Tulsa King,” which has been renewed for a second season. His biographical documentary, “Sly,” is set to stream on Netflix starting November 3, 2023, offering viewers an even deeper insight into his life and career.
Future Aspirations
As he navigates the twilight of his career, Stallone remains reflective yet optimistic. He expressed a desire to spend more time with his “loved ones,” acknowledging that he doesn’t take his career’s longevity “for granted.”
Sylvester Stallone’s long-lasting impact on Hollywood and the action genre is indelible. As the entertainment industry continues to change, Stallone stands as a testament to resilience, talent, and the power of enduring appeal.
