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Rocky
II (1979)   
Preceded by:
Rocky (1976)
Succeeded by:
Rocky III (1982)
Review
The
problem with the first sequel in the Rocky series isn't mainly
that it's the original's identical twin, going to desperate lengths in
order to be able to bring Rocky down from the height he reached at the
end of Rocky
and to his original down-and-out level – just to be able to make
him the underdog and rehash the
ascent all over again. In fact, we might have accepted all that,
if it hadn't been for the lack of skill with which it is all executed.
This, Stallone's second outing in the director's chair, shows his
inaptitude all too well. The film is bumpy, childish and corny. The
acting has all the weaknesses the original largely concealed – mainly
because of a lesser script and dialogue. An important character like
Apollo Creed is a complete spoof in Rocky II. And Rocky Balboa,
while still a charming and naïve man, hasn't got the vitality and
importance that made him special three years prior.
That
is not to say that Rocky II hasn't got anything to offer. For all
its silliness, the film isn't directly exploitative. It has a message,
even if it's a sophomoric one. And it has the feel-goodness that
characterized Rocky, even if it is
somewhat restricted by this film's inferior quality. Unfortunately, the fighting is
notably less realistic and dynamic than in most other entries in the
series. That sound editing was certainly never going to win anyone an Oscar.
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