The "Bad" Stallone Movies Really Aren't That Bad

Ah, Sylvester Stallone. You may not know the name, but you'll probably know him as Rocky, Rambo, or that macho Italian guy that can't stop slurring. He was at the top of the world when he made Rocky in 1976 and his fame continued well into the 80s. But around the mid-80s and into the 90s, Stallone's fame started to wane, and he released movie after movie that was critically panned. But let's be honest...they're really not that bad.

 Now, these movies are in no way prime examples of art in cinema, but they're still a lot of fun. Stallone movies are always what you'd expect: cheesy awesome popcorn flicks that substitute a solid story for solid action. Now granted that's not always the case. Cliffhanger was released during Stallone's lul and it's a fantastic film, both action and storywise.

Tango & Cash is almost universally panned by critics but, come on! It's a good movie! Kurt Russell is awesome as Stallone's partner and the action and dialogue is good ol' fashioned 80s entertainment. No, the story isn't perfect but it's still an enjoyable action comedy relic. Better than most make it out to be.

D-Tox (also known as Eye See You in its re-release) is actually a much later example of the 90s Stallone formula (released in 2002). I legitimately think this film is truly underrated. The story and mystery is intriguing, the characters are memorable, the mood is dark and the setting is claustrophobic, Stallone actually does drama very well, and the villain and one liners are epic. You may not have even heard of this movie due to a troubled release, but I recommend giving this one a watch.

Now, The Specialist. I'll admit this movie is crap. The action is cool, Stallone's bad-ass, and James Woods' over the top villain is enjoyable, but even that can't mask a sloppy story and script with numerous plot holes and a terrible performance by Sharon Stone. Give this a miss.

Cobra is the prime example of the Stallone formula. Larger than life villain, rock-em sock-em action, memorable one liners, awesome soundtrack, and Stallone shooting many, many people. I truly love Cobra. It holds a very special place in my heart. Yeah, it can be cheesy and it's not very subtle, but isn't that what you look for when you watch an action movie? Seriously, give Cobra a shot.

Well, I may not have done a very good job backing my argument and some of you still may stand by your opinions that these films aren't good. And that's okay! These films work for me and that's what makes the world interesting. Everyone has their own taste, and I won't force mine on yours.