Review of Rocky II (1979) by Sidney S — 16 Jan 2011

The first film was a success, but it was in keeping with the 70s style of the hero losing, so there had to be a sequel, and this one is very much a retread of the first. As such it has a lot going for it: well directed, acted, and with the same gritty style.

However, it has some really hokey moments, such as Adrian suddenly telling Rocky to fight and the fact that Apollo Creed cannot get up in the end when all is on the line. Hell, it ends just like the first except Rocky wins and gives a speech.

Still, this is a solid sequel because takes it characters seriously, especially Apollo Creed, who broods on his failing status and comes off as tragic.