John G. Avildsen: The King of the Underdogs

Examination of an Oscar-Winning Director

John G. Avildsen's films have inspired millions of 'underdogs' and shaped popular culture for decades, yet most people don't even know his name. Discover the unknown legend behind Rocky (1976) and The Karate Kid (1984) in this official biography about a prolific filmmaker who directed seven actors to Academy Award nominations and earned his own Oscar for Best Director.

Nominated for Best Documentary Film at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

"This affectionate portrayal of an unpretentious journeyman director will engage his detractors as well as his admirers." - Stephen Farber, Hollywood Reporter

"Derek Wayne Johnson's documentary ... is a love letter to a man we didn't know we loved." - Bradley Gibson, Film Threat