December 3rd, 2016 marked the 40th anniversary of the classic boxing movie "Rocky." With a low budget and not a lot of support behind the film, the Sylvester Stallone written/starring film went on to gross more money than any other movie in 1976 and won three Oscars, including a Best Picture win that beat out the Martin Scorsese masterpiece "Taxi Driver." It's not hard to see why though; the movie may be the ultimate American underdog story. To this day, it remains an iconic film and features one of the most beloved characters in film with Stallone's star-making role of southpaw boxer with a heart of gold, Rocky Balboa, who would appear in a further six films, with "Creed" being the most recent entry in the franchise. It's crazy how an entire series spawned from a $1,000,000 film, but the entire "Rocky" franchise is (for the most part) one of the most adored and iconic in cinema. So, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original, here's a look at each movie:

1. "Rocky" (1976)

There isn't too much more that I have to say about this one, because it is the defining underdog sports movie. Centering on Rocky getting a shot at the world heavyweight championship of the world against champion Apollo Creed, the movie also highlights his relationship with his environment & those around him, like old trainer Mickey, hot-tempered Paulie, and loan-shark boss Gazzo, and his romance with Paulie's shy sister Adrian. The film introduced audiences to all these great characters, and every actor brings their A-game in this movie, although it is Stallone who is the stand-out (one can easily see why people thought he could be the next Marlon Brando). It also introduced the series' tropes & staples, like the instantly-recognizable theme music, the training montage, the imagery of running up the "Rocky steps," memorable quotes, and great fight scenes. Its themes of going the distance and proving yourself are universal, and it's ending is bittersweet, yet so satisfying. It's a heart-filled American classic that will continue to impact pop culture. Simple as that.

2. "Rocky II" (1979)

Picking up immediately where the first left off, this sequel sees the rematch between Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed. However, Rocky's personal and post-fight life is looked at too, with his marriage, brief period of wealth, initial reluctance to fight again, continued training under Mickey, and the birth of his son seen. Even Apollo gets more character development in this film, with a drive to prove that he isn't a joke, but truly the champion who won't only narrowly beat a random unknown. Although this movie has a similar tone & works as a perfect continuation of the first movie, there's a bit more comedy this time around and a greater sense of predictability. It's also the first of the series to be both written and directed by Stallone, who would also go one to write and direct Rocky III, Rocky IV, and Rocky Balboa. It's a worthy direct-sequel to the original, and isn't far off in quality.

3. "Rocky III" (1982)

After becoming the heavyweight champion of the world and defending his title against lesser fighters, along comes Mr. T's Clubber Lang to brutally take the title from him in a vicious upset. Not only that, but Mickey dies right after the fight, and Rocky is devastated. Luckily, old foe Apollo Creed returns to help train Rocky so that he can beat Clubber Lang and reclaim his heavyweight title. This entry brings a fun action-movie vibe to the series, but still retains somber and heartfelt elements of the previous two movies, especially with the death of Mickey and Adrian's speech to Rocky on the beach. The best part of this movie though, besides Mr. T's performance, is the relationship between Rocky and Apollo. It's really fulfilling to see him come back as an ally and help Rocky make a comeback. Plus, this movie gave us "Eye of the Tiger." Enough said.

4. "Rocky IV" (1985)

In this installment, completely influenced by the Cold War, American hero Rocky must battle borderline-superhuman Russian fighter Ivan Drago, who actually kills Apollo during an exhibition match. This one is unquestionably ridiculous and over-the-top, but is so memorable and entertaining that it's difficult to dislike. It has an extravagant James Brown musical number, a robot, a riveting final fight, cheesy ending, Dolph Lundgren's memorable (and intimidating) performance as Drago, a soundtrack that you'll be dying to work out to, an inspiring mountain climb, an extra dose of patriotism, and four montages. It may not be the best movie in the series, but it's arguably the most fun to watch.

5. "Rocky V" (1990)

After the more silly previous two films, "Rocky V" tries to bring the series back to it's humble roots and serve as the (at the time) concluding chapter of the Rocky story. Stallone writes again, but original "Rocky" director John G. Avildsen returns to direct. The film explores Rocky's retirement, the lose of his fortune, his relationship with his son, and his training of young, arrogant fighter Tommy Gunn. Unfortunately, a lot of this movie misses the mark; something about it just doesn't completely click. It doesn't help that the movie, despite trying to be more serious and simple like the first one, still features some out of place over-the-top elements such as the character of George Washington Duke and Tommy's corruption/turn against Rocky. Even Stallone himself hates this movie. However, there's still some solid highlights to be found here, with a touching flashback featuring Mickey, a solid performance by Stallone, and the final street fight being pretty bad-ass (especially with Rocky's great "My ring's outside" line).

6. "Rocky Balboa" (2006)

In what sounds like a ridiculous & dumb idea, this movie sees an older Rocky end up in an exhibition fight with the current heavyweight champion, Mason Dixon, in order to prove himself in the ring again, after a simulated fight between the two sparks interest and speculation. This movie succeeds where "Rocky V" failed and really feels just like the first movie in terms of tone. It deals with themes of age, moving on, and fighting to do something that no one believes you can do. In the film, Rocky is distant from his son, Adrian has died, and many people think of him as a has-been, and the film handles these things with maturity and heart, which was what really propelled the first film. Stallone gives a fantastic performance as Rocky, with his greatest moment coming with the speech that he gives his son on life (even if you haven't seen the movie, I guarantee you're familiar with it). It also contains the best fight of the series up to that point, which is filmed like a real pay-per-view boxing match, and utterly realistic--so much so that all the hits that Stallone takes are real, as he wanted to ensure authenticity.

7. "Creed" (2015)

Very much like the first "Rocky," this movie focuses on Apollo Creed's son, Adonis, as he trains under Rocky's guidance to become a fighter and make a name for himself in the world of boxing. This movie surprised a lot of people with just how good it was; the story was familiar yet well done, and Michael B. Jordan and Stallone both deliver Oscar-worthy performances (with Stallone getting robbed of a win). Adonis is an incredibly compelling character with a great story arc, while Rocky's arc in this film is absolutely heartbreaking; but like the first movie, "Creed" is very inspiring, bittersweet, and full of heart. The director/writer Ryan Coogler also deserves a lot of credit here, with excellent writing and top-notch directing. One of the highlights is a fight that is done in one continuous shot. Overall, it's a really well-done and fantastic film that sets up a hopefully-great series to come. Plus, this film reveals the outcome of the private third fight between Rocky and Apollo from "Rocky III,", and that's just one more thing that'll put a smile on your face.