The Order of the Rocky Movies – How Many Are There?

The Rocky franchise has undeniably been a heavyweight champion in cinema for nearly five decades. From the streets of Philadelphia to the glitzy rings of Las Vegas, the saga of Rocky Balboa has, consequently, captivated audiences worldwide. But with so many installments, including spin-offs, it’s easy to lose track of the order of the Rocky movies. So, let’s lace up our gloves and dive into the chronology of this iconic series.

Analyzing The Forever Iconic Rocky Franchise

The Order of the Rocky Movies highlights how the franchise has become synonymous with the underdog story, inspiring millions to believe in the power of perseverance. Furthermore, this series, spanning nine films, showcases the remarkable journey of Rocky Balboa from a small-time boxer to a legendary champion and mentor. Each movie builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of character development, heart-pounding action, and poignant life lessons.

From the gritty streets of 1970s Philadelphia to the modern-day boxing world, the Rocky series has evolved while maintaining its core themes of determination and the human spirit. Let’s break down each film in the order of release, exploring how they contribute to the larger Rocky franchise narrative.

Rocky (1976)

The film that started it all, “Rocky,” introduced us to the lovable underdog, Rocky Balboa, who is a small-time boxer working as a debt collector in Philadelphia. Written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, this movie consequently set the template for all sports dramas to follow. The story, furthermore, follows Rocky’s unexpected shot at the heavyweight title against the charismatic champion Apollo Creed.

What made “Rocky” special wasn’t just the boxing matches; rather, it was the character development and the authentic portrayal of working-class Philadelphia. Additionally, the film’s success was unprecedented, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Ultimately, it cemented Stallone’s place in Hollywood and gave birth to one of the most recognizable characters in film history.

Key Facts:

• Budget: $1.1 million
• Box Office: $225 million worldwide
• Accolades: 3 Oscar wins (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Film Editing)
• Iconic Quote: “Yo, Adrian!”

Rocky II (1979)

The Order of the Rocky Movies showcases how “Rocky II” builds on the success of the first film by picking up where its predecessor left off. Additionally, this sequel explores the aftermath of Rocky’s fight with Apollo and his challenges both in and out of the ring. Moreover, the rematch between Rocky and Apollo forms the film’s centerpiece, with both fighters having something to prove.

Furthermore, “Rocky II” delves deeper into Rocky’s personal life, particularly his marriage to Adrian and impending fatherhood. These elements consequently add depth to the character and raise the stakes for his boxing career. Ultimately, the film’s climactic bout is a nail-biter, showcasing improved choreography and cinematography in the ring.

Notable Elements:

• Introduction of Rocky Jr.
• Rocky’s struggle with newfound fame
• The iconic training montage through Philadelphia

Rocky III (1982)

“Rocky III” marks a turning point in the franchise, introducing new challenges and adversaries. The film opens with Rocky as the established heavyweight champion, living a life of luxury. However, his complacency leads to a devastating loss against the fierce Clubber Lang, played by Mr. T.

This installment is notable for several reasons:

1. The transformation of Apollo Creed from rival to mentor
2. The introduction of “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor as the new theme song
3. A more polished and confident Rocky, showing character growth

The movie explores complacency, the price of success, and the importance of staying hungry. It also features some of the most quotable lines in the series, cementing its place in pop culture history.

Interesting Trivia:

• Hulk Hogan makes an appearance as Thunderlips
• The film grossed $270 million worldwide
• Mr. T’s catchphrase “I pity the fool” originated from this movie

Rocky IV (1985)

Often considered the most outlandish entry in the series, “Rocky IV” is a product of its time, heavily influenced by Cold War tensions. The film introduces Ivan Drago, a towering Soviet boxer with seemingly superhuman strength. When Drago kills Apollo Creed in an exhibition match, Rocky must avenge his friend’s death and defend his country’s honor.

This installment is known for its over-the-top training montages; notably, it contrasts Rocky’s rugged, back-to-basics approach in Siberia with Drago’s high-tech, steroid-fueled regimen. Furthermore, the final fight serves as a metaphor for the USA vs. USSR conflict, with Rocky, consequently, embodying American grit and determination.

Key Elements:

• Soundtrack featuring multiple hit songs
• Rocky’s speech about change at the end of the film
• The most financially successful entry in the franchise until “Creed.”

Rocky V (1990)

“Rocky V” represents a significant shift in tone, bringing the story back to its roots in the streets of Philadelphia. After losing his fortune due to poor financial management, Rocky returns to his old neighborhood. Here, he takes on a protégé, Tommy Gunn, while dealing with the effects of brain damage from his fight with Drago.

The Order of the Rocky Movies highlights this film, which explores themes of mentorship, family, and the dangers of losing one’s way. While it’s often considered the weakest entry in the series, it does provide significant character development for Rocky. It introduces the concept of him as a trainer rather than a fighter.

Points of Interest:

• It is the only Rocky film where the climactic fight takes place on the street, not in a ring
• Sage Stallone, Sylvester’s real-life son, plays Rocky Jr.
• Originally intended to be the final film in the series.

Rocky Balboa (2006)

Sixteen years after “Rocky V,” Sylvester Stallone brought his iconic character back to the big screen in “Rocky Balboa.” As a result, this film serves as a redemption for both the character and the franchise itself. Now, a widower running a restaurant named after his late wife, Adrian, Rocky, grapples with aging and feelings of irrelevance.

The movie tackles grief, legacy, and finding purpose in life’s twilight years. When Rocky accepts an exhibition match against the current heavyweight champion, Mason “The Line” Dixon, it becomes a metaphor for his struggle against time and his doubts.

Noteworthy Aspects:

• Use of real ESPN commentators for authenticity
• Rocky’s emotional monologue about life to his son
• Blends nostalgia with modern filmmaking techniques

The Creed Spin-Off is Technically Part of the Rocky Franchise

The Order of the Rocky Movies showcases how the Creed films represent a brilliant continuation of the Rocky saga, shifting the focus to a new generation while maintaining strong ties to the original series. These films follow Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, as he navigates the world of professional boxing under the mentorship of an aging Rocky Balboa.

This spin-off series has successfully modernized the franchise while staying true to its roots. It explores themes of legacy, identity, and the weight of expectations. The Creed films have reinvigorated the Rocky universe and stood on their own as compelling sports dramas.

Creed (2015)

“Creed” introduces us to Adonis Johnson, the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed, who decides to follow in his father’s footsteps despite never knowing him. The film follows Adonis as he seeks out Rocky Balboa to train him, forming a bond that echoes the relationship between Rocky and Apollo in the earlier films.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, “Creed” brings a fresh perspective to the franchise while honoring its legacy. The film tackles themes of identity, legacy, and the struggle to make one’s name in the shadow of a legend.

Key Points:

• Michael B. Jordan’s breakout performance as Adonis Creed
• Sylvester Stallone’s Oscar-nominated supporting role
• Innovative single-take boxing sequence
• Modernized training montages and fight choreography

Creed II (2018)

“Creed II” directly connects to the events of “Rocky IV,” thus bringing the Creed-Drago rivalry full circle. Specifically, Adonis faces off against Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago, in a fight that is laden with personal and historical significance. Consequently, this installment explores the weight of legacy, particularly the sins of fathers passed down to their sons.

The film delves deeper into the psyche of both Adonis and Rocky, examining how past traumas shape their present decisions. It also provides a surprisingly nuanced look at the Drago family, adding depth to characters previously seen as one-dimensional villains.

Notable Elements:

• Return of Dolph Lundgren as Ivan Drago
• Exploration of fatherhood and generational conflict
• Callbacks to iconic moments from earlier Rocky films
• Intense training sequences and brutal fight choreography

Creed III (2023)

“Creed III” marks a significant milestone in the franchise; notably, it is the first film not to feature Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa. Furthermore, directed by Michael B. Jordan in his directorial debut, the movie shifts its focus entirely to Adonis Creed’s journey. As a result, it delves deeply into the challenges he faces at the peak of his career.

The film introduces a new antagonist from Adonis’s past, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the difficulty of reconciling one’s present success with a troubled history. Without Rocky’s presence, Adonis must face his most formidable opponent, both physically and emotionally.

Highlights:

• Michael B. Jordan’s directorial vision
• Innovative fight sequences inspired by anime
• Deeper exploration of Adonis’s character and personal history
• Strong performances from the supporting cast

Which Rocky Movie is Your Favorite?

With nine films spanning nearly five decades, the Rocky franchise offers something for every fan. Whether you prefer the gritty underdog tale of the original, the bombastic Cold War allegory of “Rocky IV,” or the modern, character-driven drama of the Creed series, there’s no shortage of memorable moments.

Here’s a quick recap of all nine films in chronological order:

1. Rocky (1976)
2. Rocky II (1979)
3. Rocky III (1982)
4. Rocky IV (1985)
5. Rocky V (1990)
6. Rocky Balboa (2006)
7. Creed (2015)
8. Creed II (2018)
9. Creed III (2023)

Fan Poll: Favorite Rocky Movie

Movie Title Percentage of Fans

Rocky 35%

Rocky IV 25%

Creed 20%

Rocky III 10%

Others 10%