The Rocky series holds a special place in film history, not just because of its box-office and Academy Award success. It also has been a unique film series because it has tracked the lead character (on and off screen) from an unassuming youth, to a bonafide star and champion, all the way to his golden years in real time. Not only that, but you can also see the changes in America happening with every new installment.
The original Rocky was created in the 70’s, during a time of political and social uncertainty. Rocky Balboa was a flawed individual overcoming the odds, going up against a system that was designed for him to fail. Rocky 3 and 4 were made in the 80’s and saw Rocky dealing with the excess of success and a war with a deadly Russian. Which were clear analogies and a sign of the times. By the time the sixth film, Rocky Balboa, rolled around we had an elderly Stallone attempting a comeback on and off-screen. Most observers counted him out and the movie defied the odds and became a relative success.
Rocky Balboa might have hung up his gloves, but his story is not quite over yet. Director Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station) is bring Stallone and Rocky back to the big-screen, but for the first time he will not be starring in a film he appears in. Coogler instead is choosing to tell the story of Adonis, the son of Rocky’s greatest rival and friend in Creed. Michael B. Jordan stars as the title character who has lived an affluent life, but still has boxing in his blood. He seeks mentorship in Rocky and it looks as if the torch is being passed. Even more satisfying is seeing Rocky as his trainer and in his corner, clearly bringing to mind the way Mickey did for Rocky in the earlier films. This indeed looks like a story for the modern generation.
Coogler has proven adept at crafting a heart-breaking drama that takes an unflinching look at life. Qualities that would seemingly be a great fit for this material and franchise. Judging from the trailer, it doesn’t seem like this is a vapid attempt by the studio to make money from an old property. It looks like it is Coogler’s passion project, that has heart and not many gimmicks to sell extra tickets. Meanwhile, Jordan is taking steps towards becoming a major force in Hollywood. If Fantastic Four is a hit in August, Creed might have the attention of more than boxing and Rocky fans this November. Regardless, there is something comforting about seeing Rocky grumble philosophy and hit speed bags. This is definitely one to look out for. Enjoy the trailer.
Official Synopsis:
Adonis Johnson (Jordan) never knew his famous father, world heavyweight champion Apollo Creed, who died before he was born. Still, there’s no denying that boxing is in his blood, so Adonis heads to Philadelphia, the site of Apollo Creed’s legendary match with a tough upstart named Rocky Balboa.
Once in the City of Brotherly Love, Adonis tracks Rocky (Stallone) down and asks him to be his trainer. Despite his insistence that he is out of the fight game for good, Rocky sees in Adonis the strength and determination he had known in Apollo—the fierce rival who became his closest friend. Agreeing to take him on, Rocky trains the young fighter, even as the former champ is battling an opponent more deadly than any he faced in the ring.
With Rocky in his corner, it isn’t long before Adonis gets his own shot at the title…but can he develop not only the drive but also the heart of a true fighter, in time to get into the ring?
Creed hits theaters on November 25th, 2015.
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Source: WB