Released in 1979, Rocky Balboa was a box office success that went on to spawn several sequels. Although working-class Philadelphia boxer Rocky loses his high-profile bout with the cocky world champion Apollo Creed, he becomes a national sports media darling and has the opportunity to capitalize on his sudden fame. Meanwhile, Creed still smarts from nearly losing to some palooka no one had ever heard of; he now prods his newfound nemesis into getting back into the ring.

The Rocky series is one of the most popular movies in history and is easily the best of the bunch. It’s a rare sequel, outdoing its previous in almost every way. The fight at the end is possibly the most entertaining; it keeps you on the edge of your seat unlike any other fight you’ve seen on film. My favorite scene from this movie is when Apollo and Rocky both fall to the ground, and they’re given a countdown in slow motion, it’s probably the most satisfying suspense scene ever filmed with endless gripping tension. The side story of Adrian slipping into a coma after working too hard while pregnant was emotionally traumatic and captivating; it brings out romantics between her and Rocky that aren’t found in other movies in this series. The dramatic effect of Adrian’s 50/50 chance of survival was truly a staple in this standalone series; it shows how much care he has for her. The second film in the series is a step up from the first, with a stronger plot, more action and better special effects. Rocky II ending speech, “I did it!” is memorable today, and stands out as one of the most iconic moments in modern cinema. If you haven’t seen it, watch it because Rocky II is undoubtedly the best film in the series and improves upon its previous.