Rocky II

Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers, Burgess Meredith
Directed by: Sylvester Stallone
Rating: PG
Genre: Sports
1979

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: After his famous fight against Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) returns home to life with Adrian (Talie Shire). However, his life is complicated by trying to find a job, and doctors' warnings that he could be critically injured if he fights again. On top of all of this, Creed continually challenges Rocky to a rematch in order to gain back the respect he lost. Rocky doesn't want to fight, but the payday could really help him out. Plus, he wonders if he really has what it takes to beat the champ.

Review:

Tim: Rocky II is successful because it shows a very realistic post-fight Rocky. He isn't immediately shot up to superstardom. Sylvester Stallone the director really focuses on Rocky's limitations- his difficulty with reading, lack of education in general, lack of work experience, etc. Instead of just sending Rocky back into the ring, he tries to make a living as an ordinary worker. These scenes are somewhat depressing and slightly sad to watch. They are also very realistic. At this point, we really identify with and feel for these characters.

The first film is truly about a regular guy with a shot at doing something huge by overcoming nearly insurmountable odds. This sequel makes those odds even bigger as Rocky must once again fight Apollo Creed, and this time, he doesn't have the element of surprise.

Stallone writes, directs, and stars in a very fitting sequel to his hit original film. This movie follows the same formula as its predecessor, so while this movie is good, it doesn't have the smae fresh, raw quality that makde the original so good.

The rematch against Apollo is a lot different from the first time- Stallone makes use of slow motion for some of the hits, and there are a lot more close-ups. This starts an interesting trend that will continue in the subsequent sequels.

Despite its shortcomings, the film manages a very exciting conclusion and honors the original film. It is interesting to watch these great characters further their lives as we watch their story. This is a good sequel, and those aren't always easy to find.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
Rocky, Rocky III, Rocky IV, Rocky V, First Blood, Raging Bull