Creed

After “Rocky Balboa”, we thought the series was over. It had ups and down but we got a final, conclusive note. So why do a spinoff? Because they had all the ingredients to make a great film.

In 2015, Adonis Johnson (Michal B. Jordan) is the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed, the former adversary, turned friend of Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) Determined to pursue his own dream of becoming a professional boxer, he quits his job and moves to Philadelphia to train under a hesitant Rocky. As Adonis hones his skills, he worries that in his quest to shape his own legacy, he will fail to live up to his father's name.

“Rocky Balboa” is a good film but aspects felt familiar. This criticism could be extended to most of the “Rocky” sequels. By giving us a new lead, we’ve opened up an exciting corridor we’re eager to explore. Rocky is older and more mature than even the last time we saw him. His desire to get back into the ring has been quenched but when Adonis comes in, practically begging him for help, something inside the Italian Stallion rustles out of its slumber. In the son Apollo never knew, Rocky has found the protege he always wanted. It works both as an element in this story by itself, and as a follow-up to the plot of “Rocky V”. That's terrific, and we haven't even started talking about the main character.

The dynamic between Rocky and Adonis is excellent. Despite their tough exteriors, the two fighters have a lot of vulnerabilities buried deep and by joining forces, they bring new strengths out of each other. There is one dramatic moment, in particular, in which Balboa confesses some of the guilt he carries over the death of Apollo that’s so good I dare you not to get misty-eyed. Michael B. Jordan might’ve been on your radar previously for his role in “Chronicle” or “Fruitvale Station” but if he wasn’t, he will be now. There's a romantic subplot involving him and his neighbor, Bianca (Tessa Thompson) and it's so satisfying it feels as though the main event you came to see is a distraction... at least until you see how well it's shot. What I'm saying is everything feels so genuine and inspired you can't help get invested.

Much praise must be directed towards Ryan Coogler. For a second film, this is outstanding. The fight scenes, in particularly stand out. It’s some of the best boxing footage you’ve ever seen and is made even more impactful by every single emotional moment we witnessed prior.

Like the titular character, “Creed” lives up to the legacy its building upon while also shaping its own. We thought the series was done. We were happy it was done and that it had ended on a high note but now, we can’t wait to get more. (On Blu-ray, April 9, 2019)