Article: Under the influence: Impact of 'Rocky' films leaves its mark on Star film critic.

Byline: Phil Villarreal

Dec. 21--Rocky is my father. That's the case, at least, if it's somehow possible that a fictional pop cultural icon can raise a boy. Rocky is responsible for instilling the best and worst aspects of my personality -- a dogged resolve that tends to segue into a self-destructive stubbornness. Sure, my parents technically played their part in bringing me up, providing food, shelter, love and encouragement, but Rocky, with some help from Nintendo's Mario, showed me the way. I'm exaggerating here, but not as much as you'd think. The "Rocky" series is truly a part of me, and I was overjoyed that the latest film, "Rocky Balboa," ...

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