Rocky makes strong debut on Broadway

Rocky The Musical has opened on Broadway, with technical wizardry triumphing over "non-descript" music.

The musical - based on the Oscar-winning movie - is co-written by the film's star Sylvester Stallone.

Set in 1975 Philadelphia, it follows an amateur boxer who gets a surprise shot at the heavyweight championship.

"The finale fight is so visceral and exhilarating that it sends the audience out on a high," writes David Rooney in the Hollywood Reporter.

"Any grumbling about the musical's shortcomings give way to open-mouthed wonder in its spectacular final 20 minutes," adds Rooney.

The final scene sees Rocky battle world champion Apollo Creed in the ring.

"[Alex] Timbers and the creative team have successfully repurposed many of the movie's most iconic moments for the stage, which are greeted with a roar of approval from the audience."