Jim Toscano and Danny Gianino, two filmmakers from Detroit, found an unexpected calling in telling the story of Mike Kunda, the world’s number one Rocky fan. Their documentary, The Pretender, follows Kunda’s lifelong devotion to Sylvester Stallone’s iconic character — a passion that goes far beyond simple fandom. From dressing like Rocky to giving motivational tours in Philadelphia, Mike lives his life through the lens of his cinematic hero. Toscano and Gianino were drawn to the human story beneath the surface — exploring how one man’s obsession with an underdog fighter became a reflection of his own struggles, identity, and dreams.

The making of The Pretender was a true indie journey, filled with the unpredictability of documentary filmmaking. The directors captured Mike’s life as it unfolded, balancing humor, sincerity, and raw emotion while ensuring nothing felt staged. For Toscano and Gianino, the project was more than a film — it was a creative rebirth that reminded them of the power of authentic storytelling. Ultimately, The Pretender is not just about a man imitating his hero; it’s about the universal desire to find purpose and strength in the stories that move us.








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