The fulfillment of Rocky 1

Rating: 10/10 (3 February 2007)

One of the few sequels that deliver exactly what is expected from it based on the success of the predecessor. Rocky II is the continuation of the journey into the life of the boxer Rocky Balboa. It explores the impact of the fight with Apollo on the life of Rocky Balboa. Though Rocky has lost the match as per judges' decision, he still has won the hearts of thousands of boxing fans. Rocky's courage and valor have struck a chord with all boxing fans who now believe that Apollo has won the match by luck. This hurts Apollo's ego and pride and he sets out to offer one more chance to the Rock.
The whole cast remains essentially the same. Bill Conti still delivers fine music he managed to deliver in the first part. The training sequence and the fight are even more intense and inspiring than the first part. The story I shall still say has been scripted very well to be consistent with the characters and story of Rocky I.
However one gets to see a bit more technical side of the boxing world in this part of the Rocky series. On one hand we have Apollo who trains intensely without underestimating Rocky this time. Micky knows that Apollo was taken by surprise by the south-paw jinx (atypical boxing method that Rocky uses wherein he uses a left handed approach) but this time he will be prepared and Rocky would stand no chance. Hence Micky delivers a whole new package of training to Rocky to change his orientation and approach altogether.
When Rocky's wife (Adrian) slips into a coma all training is suspended and Micky is in a dilemma. He knows Rocky needs training and at the same time realizes that Rocky cannot concentrate with his wife in coma. Here the story gets trainer-centric. So apart from acting as a window to the deeper aspect of Rocky's life this movie gives out more about the training involved and sets the story from a somewhat trainer's perspective as well.
I find it very difficult to make any comparison of Rocky 2 with Rocky 1. Rocky 2 is a fulfillment of Rocky 1. One has to admit that Rocky I as a single movie would be quite abrupt.
I can't find the heart to take any stars away from the movie! Enjoy!