To use some boxing vernacular, when Ryan Coogler‘s Creed came out in 2015, it hit me a left hook (the film and the score). Earlier this week, we got our first look at the sequel to this new Rocky-based franchise. To be honest, this does comes as a bit of a surprise. Not just because Creed is a tough act to follow, but going for the emotional connection to previous Rocky films (read: Drago!), seems like the story is already backtracking when it should be moving forward. You can thank Sylvester Stallone who returns in front of the camera, and behind it with a writing credit.
It will feel a little different without Coogler being heavily involved, but we’ll see how it goes. One thing is for sure, when emotion is involved, it can get really messy. So get ready for street fight.
Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed. Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family’s past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what’s worth fighting for, and discover that nothing’s more important than family. Creed II is about going back to basics to rediscover what made you a champion in the first place, and remembering that, no matter where you go, you can’t escape your history.
Creed II is directed by Steven Caple Jr. and stars Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad, and Dolph Lundgren. The film is set for release on November 21, 2018. Ding, ding!
