Director John G. Avildsen ("Rocky," "The Karate Kid") dies at 81

John G. Avildsen, Director of ‘Rocky,’ ‘Karate Kid’ Films, Dies at 81

 

He directed the best and worst Rocky movies.

 

Stallone wrote the 5th installment so I wouldn't be so quick to blame the director for that steaming pile of crap.

 

Stallone wrote them all. I think Rocky V would have been a lot better with a few minor changes, plus a major one (recasting Tommy Gunn).

 

I like The Karate Kid. That movie got me into the martial arts for a couple years. RIP.

 

Have you seen the workprint that's on Dailymotion? Rocky V screener - Part 1 - Video Dailymotion

 

Good director. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I love The Karate Kid III, despite how much hate it gets. The Next Karate Kid should have never existed IMO.

 

Say Hi to Belushi for me ! Thanks for Neighbors too !

 

I haven't. I'll have to check it out.

 

I like all three Karate Kid movies but get sort of bored with the second one. Mr. Silver in part 3 does a terrific job.

 

Rocky is my favorite film

 

Rocky ???
C'mon a bit of respect!!!!!!

R.I.P

 

I always thought this movie would've been a lot better had Belushi been the whackjob neighbor and Danny A. the straight-laced guy.

 

I'd have to see it again to be sure, but I recall liking W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings. And of course Rocky is a classic. Never saw Karate Kid, though. RIP

 

Alvidsen also helmed two of my favorite lesser-known gems from the '70s:

Joe (1970), with Peter Boyle


Save the Tiger (1973), with Jack Lemmon

 

I related to the character in Karate Kid because I grew up in a military family and moved a lot and had to make new friends every 3 years or so

 

But that was a decision made by Belushi and Ackroyd

 

I love that movie too.

 

Well, Belushi's agent Bernie Brillstein should've persuaded John and Dan not to make casting decisions under the influence of blow! I still think it would've worked better with their roles reversed.