The second entry in the Rocky series is perhaps one of the most underrated sequels ever made. It is my personal favorite of the Rocky movies, and it’s the most emotionally impactful Rocky film. Stallone was able to take what made the first film so special and improved on every aspect. None of the Rocky movies beyond this one was really able to capture the magic that made the first film so special. This film also has the best fight of all the Rocky movies, which culminates in genuinely one the most euphoric moments in the history of film.
Picking up immediately following Rocky Balboa’s title fight with Apollo Creed; despite the two fighters telling each other there will be no rematch in the ring, Apollo calls out Rocky and tells him he’ll fight him anywhere, anytime. Rocky ignores Apollo’s verbal jabs, fulfilled with the performance that he gave in the fight, and eager to start his life with Adrian. Life after boxing looks good for a while; Rocky and Adrian get married, buy a new house, and Adrian is pregnant. But the fight life starts calling to Rocky again after he struggles to find work and the media pressure orchestrated by Apollo begins to attack Rocky’s dignity and reputation. Rocky accepts the rematch, but his training is put to a halt when Adrian falls into a coma. Rocky has to hold his faith as he prepares for two of the biggest moments of his life.
Rocky II was produced for $7 million. It was released on June 15, 1979 and it grossed $200 million worldwide, making it the second highest-grossing movie of the year. Sylvester Stallone had to fight and beg the studio to direct the film (much like he had to beg to star in the first film). With the support of the producers, United Artists gave in and allowed Stallone to direct. Stallone once again wrote the script, and Bill Conti composed the score. Bill Butler took over the Director of Photography role, a few years after providing the cinematography on Jaws. Unlike the first film, Rocky II was completely shunned by the Academy, receiving 0 Oscar nominations. The film currently holds a fresh 71% critic score and 82% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film does have a noticeably bigger budget than the first film, but it retains the gritty visual charm and character that its predecessor had. For being Stallone’s second directorial effort, he does a fantastic job behind the camera. All of the actors from the first film return and are even better the second time around. Many times with sequels, the story tends to be repetitive or forced. Stallone did a great job of progressing the story in a way that felt like the natural, logical progression of the original. One detail that I love is that Rocky is still not a better fighter than Creed, not even close. Most boxing movies would just have the main protagonist train, and now they are suddenly the better fighter. Rocky gets beat down for 15 rounds and wins 2 of those rounds at most. Through conditioning, toughness, and sheer force of will, he is able to take the beating long enough for Creed to exhaust himself in just enough time for Rocky to score a knockout. There are many reasons why this is my favorite Rocky film, but maybe the biggest reason is that Apollo is as relatable and fleshed out as Rocky is. He is not a villain, just another man trying to reach his potential and dealing with his own struggles.
Next week, I will be releasing an in depth analysis of the Christian themes in Rocky II. I would encourage you to watch the first two Rocky films if you have never seen them. This film deals with some serious themes, but it is appropriate for all ages.
Rocky II is available to watch on Prime Video.
God Bless You All
Michael
It is much appreciated that you are reviewing the Rocky films for a whole new audience! As the daughter of a baby boomer, I was indoctrinated into the Rocky franchise as a young girl. It’s sad to me that it’s not talked about more, especially among Christians! Can’t wait for your next article!