Rocky II is a 1979 movie directed by Sylvester Stallone.
Rocky II picks up where the classic leaves off. Rocky is essentially retired but struggles to find a purpose for his life. After continued goading from Apollo Creed, he agrees to a rematch. During his training, Adrian gives birth and slips into a coma.
THE BEST – Mickey’s Movie
Burgess Meredith is given more meaty scenes here and turns in a tremendous performance. His crusty Mickey snarls and callously rejects Rocky’s request to continue training. To show how damaged Rocky’s right eye is, Mickey viciously slaps him. Yet later in the movie, Mickey changes his mind and pushes Rocky to fight – even during Adrian’s time in a coma. Despite the flawed plot, Burgess shows some vulnerability and gives dimension to his character – his speech in the chapel is the most passionate part of the movie. Still, his trademark humor is on point – he declares “I don’t want to get mad in a biblical place” before he screams at Rocky.
THE BEST Part 2 – Rocky’s Job Interviews
Rocky II continues – and somewhat repeats – the natural arc of the title character as he navigates a post-fighting world. Rocky attempts different jobs, including a hauling meat, before looking for a “desk job.” While slightly over the top, his experience shooting a commercial is painful to watch. Rocky “doesn’t read so well” and is berated by an angry, flamboyant director.
THE BEST Part 3 – Pre-Fight Banter
Rocky and Mickey are subtly hilarious as they await Apollo’s ring entrance:
“This robe is better than that baggy one from last year.”
“I’ve never seen so many Italians in one place in my life.”
THE BEST Part 4 – Adrian’s Best Line
Talia Shire’s Adrian gets significant screen time and it’s fun to watch her character grow more assertive throughout the series. Her classic one-word directive to Rocky is enough to make you want to run through a wall.
“Win.”
THE BEST Part 5 – Apollo’s Hate Mail
Carl Weathers is his usual impressive self throughout the movie but I’m always struck by the scenes where he obsesses over his mail. His blend of fighter and businessman is dictated by his pride – which Weathers does a masterful job of portraying.
THE BEST Part 6 – Rocky’s Tiger Jacket
In my view, the black tiger jacket is the most memorable of any piece of Rocky memorabilia.
THE WORST – Rocky Becomes an Icon
The famous steps that Rocky struggled to conquer in the first movie now officially become the stuff of legend. Rocky repeats his Philly road work, only this time he’s followed by dozens of kids. As he mounts the top step and celebrates, the gritty triumph of the original fades and an iconic image emerges.
THE WORST Part 2 – Rocky Abandons His Training
In what becomes a recurring motif throughout the saga, Rocky ignores his training strategy. Mickey essentially reboots Rocky’s entire fighting style – making him quick and forcing him to fight right-handed. This style only lasts a few rounds before Rocky again does his own thing.
IN THE WEEDS – Some of My Favorite Details
Apollo Cutting a Promo in a Wheelchair
Rocky Driving
Joe Spinell’s Chair During Rocky’s Commercial Shoot
Duke: “We don’t need that kind of man in our life.”
Brent Musberger
Father Carmine’s Blessing
The Spectrum
“I broke my nose again.”
Rocky’s Lunges
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4/5
There’s enough of the authentic quality of the original that carries over to Rocky II. In most respects, there is still an underdog quality and the working class ethos still exists. The acting is quality, highlighted by Burgess’ extended screen time. Rocky II is often overlooked, but it’s a defining moment in a saga that eventually turns extravagant.
