Despite John G Avildsen being back on board as director (he did the first Rocky, with Sylvester Stallone himself directing the intervening rounds), the emotional clout of the original has given way here to simple gestures and acting-by-numbers, as the Italian Stallion is forced to retire but decides to train a young protégé (played by real-life boxer Tommy Morrison). Given that it would be impossible to surprise with such a prescriptive format, it's a shame that the only real spark comes courtesy of Sly's own offspring (Sage Stallone) as his screen son.

A lifetime of taking shots has ended Rocky’s career, and a crooked accountant has left him broke. Inspired by the memory of his trainer, however, Rocky finds glory in training and takes on an up-and-coming boxer.