Rocky IV is a 1985 American sports drama film directed by Sylvester Stallone, who also starred in the lead role. The film is the fourth installment in the Rocky franchise and follows Rocky Balboa as he faces off against Ivan Drago, a Soviet boxer who is also a product of a government program that has trained him from a young age to be an unbeatable athlete.
The film begins with a high-profile exhibition match between Apollo Creed and Ivan Drago in Las Vegas. Despite warnings from Rocky that Drago is a dangerous opponent, Apollo agrees to the fight in the hopes of bringing America and Russia closer together. However, Drago, who is much larger and stronger than Apollo, quickly knocks him out in the second round, causing Apollo's death.
Devastated by the loss of his friend, Rocky decides to challenge Drago to a boxing match. Despite initial reluctance from both the Soviet and American governments, the fight is eventually scheduled to take place in Moscow on Christmas Day.
In the lead-up to the fight, Rocky trains in the harsh Russian wilderness with the help of his old friend, Apollo's former trainer Duke. Meanwhile, Drago trains in a high-tech facility with a team of Soviet scientists monitoring his every move.
The fight itself is grueling and intense, with both fighters taking massive amounts of punishment. However, in the end, Rocky emerges victorious, winning over the Russian crowd and earning their respect.
The film is notable for its Cold War themes, as well as its iconic soundtrack, which includes the hit song "Eye of the Tiger." It was a box office success and is often regarded as one of the best films in the Rocky franchise.