Rocky II (1979)

Kernel Score: 81% · 4,712 ratings · Rated PG

Genres: Drama

Released: 1979-06-15

Runtime: 119 minutes

Is Rocky II worth watching?

Worth watching. A solid sequel that gives Rocky a real life outside the ring before the rematch. It's more sentimental than the original, but the ending still works.

Watch it if you

  • liked the first Rocky
  • enjoy underdog sports stories
  • want a sequel with real character moments

Skip it if you

  • haven't seen the first film
  • want gritty boxing realism

Best for: Solo night in

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Rocky II

  • Stream: Prime Video, Paramount+, YouTube TV
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

After Rocky goes the distance with champ Apollo Creed, both try to put the fight behind them and move on. Rocky settles down with Adrian but can't put his life together outside the ring, while Creed seeks a rematch to restore his reputation. Soon enough, the "Master of Disaster" and the "Italian Stallion" are set on a collision course for a climactic battle that is brutal and unforgettable.

Rocky II parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Rocky II is a PG boxing drama with brutal ring violence, a medical crisis (coma), and themes of perseverance.

  • Violence & scariness: Moderate — Boxing matches are intense and brutal, including a climactic bout described as brutal and unforgettable; a coma/hospital storyline adds medical peril.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Rocky II

If you liked Rocky II, these are the movies we'd watch next.

  • Rocky (1976) — 88%: The original; start there if you haven't
  • Rocky IV (1985) — 79%: Louder, bigger sequel with a Cold War twist
  • Creed II (2018) — 78%: Later chapter in the same boxing family story
  • Cinderella Man (2005) — 84%: Depression-era underdog boxing drama
  • Million Dollar Baby (2004) — 90%: Sad, powerful boxing drama
  • Raging Bull (1980) — 89%: Dark, intense boxing classic

Director

Sylvester Stallone

Cast

  • Sylvester Stallone as Robert 'Rocky' Balboa
  • Talia Shire as Adrianna 'Adrian' Balboa
  • Burt Young as Paulie Pennino
  • Carl Weathers as Apollo Creed
  • Burgess Meredith as Mickey Goldmill
  • Tony Burton as Tony 'Duke' Evers
  • Joe Spinell as Tony Gazzo
  • Leonard Gaines as Agent
  • Sylvia Meals as Mary Anne Creed
  • Frank McRae as Meat Foreman (uncredited)

Rocky II FAQ

Is Rocky II worth watching?

Worth watching. A solid sequel that gives Rocky a real life outside the ring before the rematch. It's more sentimental than the original, but the ending still works.

Where can I watch Rocky II?

In the US you can stream Rocky II on Prime Video, Paramount+ and YouTube TV and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Rocky II OK for kids?

Rocky II is rated PG. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Rocky II is a PG boxing drama with brutal ring violence, a medical crisis (coma), and themes of perseverance.

What movies are like Rocky II?

If you liked Rocky II, try Rocky, Rocky IV, Creed II and Cinderella Man.