Fighting Back: The Story of Rocky Bleier (1980)

Fighting Back: The Story of Rocky Bleier Poster

Based on Bleier's 1975 autobiography of the same name, it tells the story of how, after becoming a running back for the Steelers in 1968, he was then drafted by the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Background and Premise
"Fighting Back: The Story of Rocky Bleier" is a 1980 movie that portrays the life of Rocky Bleier, a previous expert Football player who made a good comeback after receiving extreme injuries in the Vietnam War. Directed by Robert Lieberman, the film recounts Bleier's story from his draft into the NFL to the troubles he faced in the battlefield, and his journey to restore his previous athletic prowess.

Plot: Bleier's Early Life and Football Career
The film opens showcasing Bleier in his hometown of Appleton, Wisconsin, a young and ambitious football gamer, who gets prepared by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. Nevertheless, his fledgling football career gets a shock as he is drafted into the Army to combat in the grueling Vietnam War. In a battle situation, Bleier sustains grave injuries, with his best leg being the most affected.

The War and Bleier's Injuries
During a patrol in Vietnam, Bleier's squad comes under ambush, resulting in a bullet wound and extreme grenade injuries to his right leg. The medical professionals anticipate that he might never walk usually once again, let alone resume a career in expert football. However, despite the dissuading diagnosis, Bleier remains optimistic and dedicated to his healing. With a strong mind and decision, he starts his path to healing and rehabilitation.

Coming Back
After a hard-fought rehab journey, Bleier defies chances and difficulties set by his injury. He looks for to fulfill his dream of playing expert football once again and slowly makes development. Upon his go back to the Steelers, his coach, Chuck Noll, offers him with the chance to train with the group, but in a seriously minimal capability. Bleier not only needs to combat against his physical constraints but likewise the skepticism of his colleagues and coaches who doubt his capability to return to the game appropriately.

Triumphant Return
Bleier's road to healing culminates in his surprising and victorious return to the NFL. Against all chances and multiple rounds of surgeries and physiotherapy, he eventually regains his place as a key member of the Pittsburgh team. His achievements reach a pinnacle when he assists the Pittsburgh Steelers to several Super Bowl success, thus becoming an inspiring figure for wounded war veterans and aspiring professional athletes alike.

Conclusion
"Fighting Back: The Story of Rocky Bleier" is not just a sports movie but likewise an honest representation of war and the indomitable human spirit. The motion picture takes the audience through Bleier's life journey and depicts his will to overcome misfortune, always reminding us of the significance of resilience, courage, and perseverance.

"Bleier's story is far more than a sports tale; it's an inspiring account of a man, who while pounded by life's heaviest blows, stayed unbowed. His story resonates with everybody who has actually ever dared to dream, demonstrating the heights one can reach with persistence and an undeviating belief in oneself.

Top Cast

  • Robert Urich (small)
    Robert Urich
    Rocky Bleier
  • Bonnie Bedelia (small)
    Bonnie Bedelia
    Aleta
  • Art Carney (small)
    Art Carney
    Art Rooney
  • Richard Herd (small)
    Richard Herd
    Chuck Knoll
  • Howard Cosell (small)
    Howard Cosell
    Howard Cosell
  • Steve Tannen
    Terry Hanratty
  • Bubba Smith (small)
    Bubba Smith
    Jacobs
  • Simone Griffeth (small)
    Simone Griffeth
    Marcy
  • Sandy McPeak (small)
    Sandy McPeak
    Bob Bleier
  • Dennis Howard
    Ken
  • Joe Spano (small)
    Joe Spano
    Captain Murphy