I am sure there is only a minority of people that don’t know about Rocky. This iconic series introduced audiences to the unforgettable Rocky Balboa, portrayed by Sylvester Stallone. However, there have been many sequels since the first one so we are discussing The Rocky movies ranked.
Undoubtedly, The Rocky series has left an indelible impact on popular culture. Throughout the years, the franchise has managed to strike a perfect balance between sports, drama, and heartfelt storytelling.
So, let’s take a trip down memory lane as we discuss all the Rocky movies ranked from worst to best. Stick with us till the end to find out the ranking of your favorite entry from the franchise.
Rocky Movies Overview
The first movie, titled “Rocky” was released in 1976. The film was both critically and financially successful. So, an equally successful sequel was released 3 years later, titled “Rocky II.” What followed was a long line of movies centering around Rocky beating up his inner demons to come to the top.
The franchise takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster of triumphs, setbacks, and redemption. The journey of Rocky Balboa, a working-class boxer with an unwavering spirit, has undoubtedly resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Rocky Movies Ranked
Now that we have refreshed your memory about this film, let’s get toward our ranking. In our list of Rocky movies ranked, we have also included the Creed franchise. So, let’s jump right into it.
9. Rocky V
Starting at the bottom of the Rocky movies ranked list is Rocky V. It is safe to say, this movie was a disappointment for fans. It lacked the heart and passion that made the previous movies so great.
The story follows Rocky’s first outing as a coach rather than a fighter. However, he realized he chose the wrong protege and eventually found himself face-to-face with him.
8. Rocky IV
Next up, we have the previous entry to Rocky V on our list of Rocky Movies Ranked. Yes, we are talking about Rock IV. In this film, Rocky must prepare to go face-to-face with Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren.
This movie is very known for its iconic training montage and the intense fight between Rocky and Ivan Drago. However, it lacked the depth and character development that the previous movies had. It relied too heavily on action and spectacle, rather than the emotional journey of the characters.
7. Rocky II
Rocky II takes the next spot on our list of Rocky movies ranked. Picking up where the original film left off, Rocky II continued the underdog story. It showed his determination to prove himself as a fighter and his love for his wife, Adrian.
It also had one of the most iconic endings in movie history, with Rocky shouting “Adrian!” as he won the fight. While it isn’t a bad movie, it just lacked the same emotional depth that made the first film a classic.
6. Rocky III
Coming at number four is Rocky III. This movie is iconic mainly due to the character of Clubber Lang, played by Mr. T, as Rocky’s new rival. Rocky III sits at the borderline of campy and cringe but never crosses it.
It also explored the theme of Rocky’s fame and how it affected his personal life. Rocky III retained most of the iconic elements such as in-ring action and training montages. Though it lacked the depth of higher-ranked films, it remains a fan favorite for its energy and lighter mood.
5. Creed II
The second Creed film proved to be a solid entry in the Rocky franchise. Creed 2 revolves around Adonis Creed coming face to face with Viktor Drago. He must overcome his trauma from his fight because Viktor’s father is the one who killed Adonis’ father during a fight.
It was an extraordinary exploration of the legacy of the Rocky franchise and had some emotional moments that tugged at the heartstrings. However, the movie was probably overshadowed by the expectations set by the first Creed film. Overall, it was still a solid movie.
4. Rocky Balboa
If you are rewatching Rocky movies, I would highly recommend you skip all the sequels and watch Rocky Balboa directly. Taking the next spot on our list of Rocky movies ranked is Rocky Balboa.
Rocky Balboa showed an aging Rocky attempting to recapture his glory. While it offered nostalgic appeal and heartfelt moments, it also managed to capture the same lightning the first movie had. Despite slight shortcomings, it was a solid addition to the franchise.
3. Creed III
Moving up to the top three, we have Creed III. Ranking high in the Rocky Movies Ranked list, Creed III continued the story of Adonis Creed. He is on his own for the first time in this franchise and he must battle his friend in the ring this time.
The friend vs friend trope has been done numerous times in movies. However, Micheal B Jordan does an incredible job of portraying the dynamic between Creed and his lifelong friend, Damien Anderson.
2. Creed
Number two is the Creed. After a long break, Creed revitalized the franchise with a new protagonist mentored by the legendary Rocky. With a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity, this spin-off secured its place among the best.
All the elements that made Rocky feel like Rocky are present in Creed. It is well-written and Michael B. Jordan does justice to this character. Moreover, Ryan Coogler’s direction was simply phenomenal.
Creed certainly deserves a high spot on our list of Rocky movies ranked.
1. Rocky
And finally, at number one, we have Rocky itself. Topping the Rocky movies ranked list, the original film remains an undisputed champion. I mean, nothing can be better than the original, right?
The story, the characters, the drama, and the action, everything was simply perfect. Moreover, Stallone perfectly fits the role of Rocky Balboa and made every dialogue memorable. Rocky will continue to be remembered as an iconic movie.
Conclusion
Overall, the Rocky movies have had their highs and lows, but they have all contributed to the legacy of the franchise.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, each movie has something to offer. With the recent release of Creed III, it’s clear that the Rocky franchise will continue to endure for years to come.
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