Review of Rocky II (1979) by Stephen Z — 11 Aug 2015
"Rocky II" is a film that gets better as it progresses. The film starts out on a low note - the entire opening five minutes is the ending from the first film, which is kind of lazy. Then it rushes through Rocky and Adrian's wedding, Adrian's pregnancy, and Rocky spending all of the money he won in the fight. This sets Rocky up to be in an almost identical situation as in the first film. Rocky cannot find work, and though we can sympathize with that, he just doesn't seem as down on his luck as he didn't in the first film. He keeps saying he's not going to get back in that ring, but we all know he will.
Though a lot of "Rocky II" is not quite as gripping as the first film, the last half hour completely makes up for it. Sylvester Stallone is as charming as ever, while Burgess Meredith plays a bigger role as Rocky's coach and is hilarious. The training montage is even better and more uplifting than the one in the previous film. Finally, Apollo and Rocky's rematch is even more brutal and intense than their first fight. It's a great fight and easily the highlight of the film!
"Rocky II" may have its faults, but like its predecessor, it is inspiring and uplifting, and I can't wait to see what "Rocky III" has in store for the new champ!
This review of Rocky II (1979) was written by Stephen Z on 11 Aug 2015.
Rocky II has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
