This is the last 'grounded' Rocky film before a cartoony nature takes over. Although Rocky's exhibition match with wrestler Thunderlips (a beefed up Hulk Hogan) walks a fine line.
You have to hand it to Stallone, he keeps coming up with engaging and exciting, logical storylines for The Italian Stallion. When you're on top, after a while you become complacent and there's always someone hungrier than you. That person is the A-Team's Mr T. (who was a huge star in the 1980's) and proves to be a vicious memorable opponent.
Teaming up Rocky with his former adversary Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) was a genius move and the training sequences are taken up a notch (or ten.) The iconic song 'Eye of the Tiger' elevates proceedings, along with Bill Conti's iconic score. The fights are enthralling but they're not exactly believable as no one covers up.
The last appearance of Burgess Meredith as trainer Mickey who was exemplary in the role. Talia Shire isn't given much to do as Rocky's wife Adrian but as moral support (for Balboa) there isn't anyone better. Burt Young is also back as lovable mooch Paulie Pennino.
Diminishing returns, but still a very good sequel.
FG FG FG F
DIRECTED BY: Sylvester Stallone. SCREENPLAY BY: Sylvester Stallone. RUNNING TIME: 100 minutes. CERTIFICATE: PG. USA.
