Rocky 2 (1979) Dir: Sylvester Stallone

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Following on from the success of the immensely patriotic original, writer, director and lead actor Sylvester Stallone returned with a sequel to one of the most iconic sports dramas in cinema history. I think it would have been easy to mess this story up, although it is a very simple narrative to follow, but Stallone does a lot very well here.

First and foremost, I really appreciate how believable Rocky Balboa is as a character. It makes him easy to get behind and quite endearing, for the most part. The character development is better than the first film, in my view, and succeeds in furthering the character's journeys enough to justify a second film.

The story flows better too, with more even pacing and improved camerawork, which both help in making this a more enjoyable viewing experience.

Sylvester Stallone, as illuded to above, was very believable as the blue-collar boxer from Phily. I think he suited the character perfectly in the first film, and only reaffirmed that belief in this second outting. Few characters are as well-known as Rocky Balboa, and that most definitely has something to do with Stallone's performances.

Carl Weathers is better than ever in this sequel. I loved him in the first film, and the same could be said once again here. He just drips charisma and determination - he, similarly to Stallone, embodies his character brilliantly - he wad once again the best actor on-screen.

Talia Shire gave a much better account of herself here, which admittedly has a lot to do with the writing, which allowed her to give a bigger and more varied performance to the slightly dull one of the last film.

I'll also give quick mentions to returning actors Burt Young and Burgess Meredith, who gave improved impressions of themselves this time around.

Overall, this, unexpectedly to me, was a step up from the original. I found myself more gripped by the events and action sequences, and more endeared to the characters. I still think I'll leave it a little while before I watch the third film, but I definitely enjoyed this.