The rematch of the century!

Rating: Null/10 (16 May 2002)

`There is one thing I want you to do for me, win, win!' These are the words of Rocky's wife Adrian, recovering in hospital. Many movies have defining moments, with this part being no exception. Rocky II gives the audience a chance to see why Rocky Balboa is not just some street fighter, but a true champion. In some ways Rocky II is better than the original, which for me is hard to admit or write.
After the controversial first challenge match in which spilt-decision awards the Heavy Weight title to defending champion, Apollo Creed, Rocky Balboa officially retires from boxing. However the Italian Stallion' finds it difficult to get work and coping with his new found notoriety. Apollo is also feeling the pressure as the calls for a rematch increase. Marriage to long time girlfriend, Adrian complicate matters, when she strongly objects to Rocky's return to the ring. He cannot turn away from the only life he has ever known and once again the training begins. When Adrian falls unexpectedly ill, it seems Rocky has lost the will to fight. Upon her recovery, she asks one thing of her husband  that he win. Spurred on by this and with help by Mickey, his trainer and Adrian's brother, Paulie, Rocky gets back into shape and once more enters the ring for the fight of his life a second time!
This movie is a great follow up to the original. The cast, which for Rocky II has not changed that much, do it all again. Sylvester Stallone has now taken another added pressure, to just writing the story and starring as the `Italian Stallion', he now directs the film, which is a great effort. I felt the character of Rocky in this film was interesting, as we get to see the side to him that I am sure audiences would have been scared to see, that he is losing that desire to fight. However after the words from his love and most important person in his life, Adrian, he gets the only encouragement he needs. Taking on another aspect of this movie, did in no way, hamper the role of Rocky by Stallone. In fact I believe it improved it.
The other cast members were also great. Telia Shire, was magnificent as the faithful wife of our champion, and again proves what a relationship is all about. Then you have the arrogant, but honest trainer Mickey, who tells Rocky to shape up or ship out as there is no room for any doubts. I love his role and perhaps that is the reason why I can say this set of sequels remains of mine favourite today. Rocky's angry opponent, Apollo Creed, is once again portrayed by the wonderful Carl Weathers. He means business this time, and for fans of this film it makes a much better film, as some of the fans of boxing question that the last win by Creed is fake, making him want a rematch, to prove he is a champion.
This story was a good follow up to the first film, showing Rocky to be a struggler, was an ingenious piece of writing on Stallone's behalf. He tries to be something else other than a fighter, yet in the end, everything points to Rocky being what he always wants and in some way has to be. In addition to having the rematch with Apollo Creed, making it all the more interesting.

I want to take a moment to reflect on what a brutal sport that boxing is. I mean we know what damage a boxer can do to himself, with head injuries being something they have to live and face once they step out of the ring. In Rocky II, the doctor has recommended' that Balboa stay away from professional fighting, yet Rocky and I am sure real fighters ignore medical advice and take the ring, when in all seriousness that is the worst thing that they could be doing.
The finale to this review, I would like to say that to make a good man, he needs a good woman, and a good friend told me that. Women can bring out in men, something that changes them. Although I am currently single, if l am to find a great girl, I would like them to bring out the best in me. That is what Rocky and Adrian do for each other and in some way it makes me want to find a special' person, that I can call mine. Nevermind about the fight, Rocky is already a hero in my corner of the ring. Go the Italian Stallion'
Rating: 4 Stars or 9/10