a much better showing than expected

Rating: Null/10 (17 December 2018)

"Donnie Johnson" is an angry young man whose entire life has been a fight. The illegitimate son of a late boxing legend, he has the potential to do great things with his life, but would rather take the difficult road and follow in the footsteps of his father. With a burning desire but no one to turn to, he seeks out his father's former rival-turned-best friend and boxing legend Rocky Balboa. After so many previous films-including what felt like a fitting denouement back in 2006-there's reason to be skeptical, but the story is unexpectedly compelling, the acting is first-rate, and the fight choreography is phenomenal, thanks to director Coogler who wisely favors long, continuous takes over quick edits. Jordan is dynamic in the lead, Stallone still endearing in his most iconic role, and Thompson also quite good as the girl next door. A bit too long, but still gritty, gutty, and thoroughly entertaining. ***