Credit: John G. Avildsen, who directed "Rocky" and "The Karate Kid" — two dark-horse, underdog favorites that went on to become Hollywood franchises — died Friday at age 81.

Director John Avildsen dies at 81; won Oscar for ‘Rocky’

Review: ‘The Book of Henry’ starts strong, spirals into far-fetched plot

‘New Chefs on the Block’ shows rise of 2 local restaurants at AFI Docs

AFI Docs’ ‘Saving Brinton’ explores Iowa man’s treasure trove of silents

AFI Docs welcomes world’s best docs, spanning food, sports, music, politics

Girl uses ‘Hunger Games’ to rescue friend with leg wound