Reviewing Creed
It had been nearly a decade since the last Rocky film when Creed reached theaters, and nearly 40 years since the first film. Rocky: Balboa ended on a high-enough-note that would’ve totally justified permanent retirement – it may have seemed to some that a spinoff based on Apollo Creed’s son might have been a needless cash grab.
But boy, did these follow-up films deliver. Michael B. Jordan was already on the up-and-up when the film became a smash hit, and he injected a ton of youthful energy into the franchise. Every aspect of the films feel full of modern energy – dynamic camera work, inspired montages that feel earnest and avoid parody, and heavy-hitting action. The films are nothing short of terrific filmmaking – but it’s Sylvester Stallone’s return as Rocky that adds another layer of excellence to the films. The relationship between Rocky and young Creed adds so much of the heart that the original films were famous for – and as much as it pained me to feel Rocky’s absence in the third flick, it’s hard to deny how smooth the ship ran even without him.
Maybe you’re not up for some old boxing movies from the 70s and 80s. Trust me – don’t count out Creed just yet.
Creed (****1/2)
Invigoratingly fresh while uncompromisingly faithful to the spirit of its predecessors, Creed brings the franchise forward with a new hero and spectacular fight scenes.
Creed II (****)
Obviously packing a punch in the fighting department, Creed II keeps the emotional stakes high with callbacks to Rocky IV and a villain that you almost can’t help but root for.
Creed III (***1/2)
There’s no doubt I missed Rocky, but compelling performances from Jordan and Majors along with stunning cinematography make this a worthy entry in the franchise.