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Released on November 25, 2015 - the fortieth anniversary of the opening scene in the original
"Rocky" - this sports drama doubled its $35 million dollar budget within a couple weeks.
As
prophesied by that classic Simpsons' joke from decades ago - this is seventh film in
the "Rocky" franchise, serving as both a spin-off to the original saga, and a sequel to Rocky's
continuing story. Following his breakout directorial success with 2013's "Fruitvale Station", the
young Ryan Coogler took on the daunting task of injecting this aging franchise with new
blood... and thankfully, he has completely succeeded. With the help of co-writer Aaron
Covington - the 133 minute script is a well-rounded, honest, and believable story. Although it's
the first chapter not written by Sylvester Stallone, it still plays homage to the older
entries while maintaining its own unique flairs. Michael B. Jordan stars as the title character,
a young boxer, who seeks out the help of retired Balboa, to follow in his late father's famous
footsteps. Any ill-will Jordan gained from starring in that awful "Fantastic Four" reboot
just a few months prior has been completely washed away here - thanks to a truly spirited
and raw performance as Apollo Creed's illegitimate son - desperate to build his own legacy, while
still honoring his boxing heritage. Portraying the Italian Stallion for the seventh time,
Stallone is, amazingly, better than ever... showing a tenderness and vulnerability we've
never seen from him. When challenged with difficult decisions, his emotional reflection
on life and his late wife are incredibly moving. Sly's pitch-perfect delivery here is layered
with resignation and fear - and might even score him another Oscar nomination. At 69-years
old, Stallone shifts into his new role as teacher effortlessly, dishing out lessons
like, "That bell doesn't mean you're dismissed. That bell means hell." To put his seniority
in perspective, he's the same age that Burgess Meredith was for the original picture. Tessa
Thompson meanwhile is featured as Creed's love interest... who does great work in their
powerful and romantic scenes together. Between the nostalgic callbacks and well-written dialogue,
there's also some truly excellent boxing on display in this PG-13 rated film. The most
outstanding example is an entire two-round match that's captured in a single, fluid steadicam
shot. Easily the best-looking and most realistic fights of the series, every punch land with
ferocity, while every cut and stitch feels earned and authentic. Coogler also impresses
during the slower moments... allowing each dramatic beat to breathe - like a nice close-up
of a young Creed's fist relaxing. Ludwig Göransson's up-beat and heavy orchestrated score mixes
well with contemporary hip-hop tracks, and even a few quick interpolations of Bill Conti's
iconic music. Paralleling the arc of Rocky's original journey, Jordan portrays a new hero
for a new generation - who is more than qualified to carry the torch. Even after forty years,
these themes of perseverance and fighting for what you want in life still resonate - perhaps
more than ever. And with this newest entry receiving such universal acclaim, I won't
be surprised if we see those red, white, and blue boxing shorts again. A wonderful continuation
of a classic franchise, that all fans will appreciate, "Creed" is a touching and inspiring
story about determination and respect. I thought it was an AWESOME film.
With the exception of the disappointing ending to the fifth picture, the "Rocky" franchise
is a remarkably consistent and entertaining series. An uplifting group of films that make
you feel empowered from just having watched them. Stallone cannot be praised enough for
the monumental character he created - one that will endure long past the final bell.