Rocky is rocky

SORRY, but in this day of plastic and soulless heroes, Kenneth Turan is not going to take away one of our last movie heroes [“Punch Drunk and Down for the Count,” Dec. 20]. I’m sure this film is probably intended to play out to a certain demographic, of which I’m included, but there are lots of us out here who actually place values in front of mere spectacle. “Rocky Balboa” effectively and entertainingly addresses the generation gap between young and old, father and son, old school and new.

It’s pointless to allow real-world logistics to stand in the way of a chance to revisit a very real hero in the minds of those of us who believe.

STEVE JENKINS

Pasadena

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FOR the first time since Rocky appeared on the cultural landscape, I am not in his corner. I loved the original film and even enjoyed the first four sequels, but the new “Rocky Balboa,” which is supposed to have a message about aging, has got it all wrong.

One important aspect of aging gracefully and wisely is to distance oneself from the bluster and bravado of one’s youth, and to show a simple wonder and appreciation for the gift of life itself.

JOSEPH CARDUCCI

Pittsburgh, Pa.