The Next Generation (Creed, 2015)

Awhile back, when I first heard about Creed, I thought I was hearing a desperate idea of continuing a franchise that had run it’s course and closed out nicely with 2006’s Rocky Balboa.

And yet, it turns out that it was the smartest move they could have made.  Creed opts to focus on the son of the late Apollo Creed, Adonis Johnson (Michael B. Jordan).  Born of an affair, Adonis is taken in by Creed’s widow Mary Anne (Phylicia Rashad).  He desires to be a boxer, but is blocked from every direction.  His only outlet is underground Mexican boxing matches.

Ultimately, he moves to Philadelphia and seeks help from a reluctant Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone).

The film is a reflection of the original Rocky, and driven heavily by the characters.  The chemistry between Adonis and Bianca (Tessa Thompson) is genuine.  Jordan and Stallone forge a bond that is at times heartbreaking and others exhilarating.

This is a strong and terrific film.  It draws you in and keeps your attention.  Creed is an excellent film, worth the watch.