Home of the Soul Cookie

Those freezing noises you heard from the underworld? They were the sound of a new Rocky film being announced.

Sylvester Stallone is coming to Philadelphia in January to film the sixth installment of “Rocky” - called “Rocky Balboa.” He’s written it, he’s starring in it, he’s directing it, and he’s returning Rocky to his roots as a neighborhood guy, living and working in the city.

I’ve heard very good things about the first one, but haven’t seen it or any of its ilk. I guess I’m of the age that was too young to see it when it first came out, and by the time I was old enough, it was a franchise that had devolved into a punch line at parties.

“In many ways, the screenplay really took me back to the original ‘Rocky,’ ” [Hollywood impresario Joe] Roth said, in a statement. “As a past champion, Rocky Balboa is once again a regular guy who has to find himself and deal with life. This film brings Rocky’s story full circle.”

And not only that, it bundles in an extra helping of angst!

A brief synopsis issued by MGM/Columbia indicates Rocky is “drawn back to the boxing ring one last time. On the way, he is challenged by a powerful new champion, by personal tragedy and ultimately by himself.”

Insiders are tight-lipped about the “personal tragedy,” but they report that Talia Shire is not in the cast, and that Rocky plays a widower.

Poor, poor Stud Rocky!