Ryan Coogler's beautiful love letter to the "Rocky" franchise, as we see the twilight of one star and the rise of another

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2016)

Ryan Coogler shows that the fantastic 'Fruitvale Station' was no fluke with the excellently directed Creed. He captures the original 'Rocky' magic and gives it a modern take by passing the baton to a new generation.
In part seven of the "Rocky" franchise, Coogler tells the story of Adonis Creed, the son of Balboa's rival and friend, in his fight to rise from his father's shadow. Rocky returns to the boxing world, but as a mentor to the youngster rather than to fight himself. He's done plenty of it.
With already six previous Rocky movies of background story, it is hard to introduce a new character the audience has to care for in the same manner as the esteemed Rocky Balboa. However, Coogler is extremely skilled in taking his time to develop character relationships and making you emotionally invested in their motivations. As he achieved in Fruitvale Station, where you already knows what happens with the main character in the end, but it still hits you like a brick wall.
Michael B. Jordan invests himself physically and mentally in the role of Adonis "Donnie" Creed in his excellent second outing with Coogler. He brings the charm and bravado needed to possibly continue this franchise and the passion he brings makes him very likable on screen. His young and brash persona with a shade of Apollo cockiness in the ring is on point in this movie. Tessa Thompson, who plays Jordan's love interest, is also excellent. Coogler successfully writes her as a fleshed out character whose romance with Donnie does not feel rushed. This makes her more than just a plot device and results in great moments where Donnie opens up about his motives. Ultimately, the movie is about Rocky and his legacy, as Sylvester Stallone returns to his iconic role and gives his best performance in 40 years. He knows his character better than anyone and truly goes in depth emotionally in this latest depiction. The corny but well-meant humor is still delivered perfectly, but Stallone is careful in not overacting during the emotional scenes. Here, he shows a Rocky that has fought and lost a lot in his life. He is more subdued and careful with his words, leading to a heartbreaking scene which will most likely land him a well deserved Oscar.
What should also be mentioned is the superb camera-work by cinematographer Maryse Alberti, who also did the Wrestler, combined with the excellent fight choreography. It really gives an immersive and realistic feeling all embodied by the jaw-dropping fight halfway into the film. Shot in one single take, it comprised of smooth panning between fighter close-ups, wide shots to observe the thrown punches, and awesome sound effects to make it all an unbelievably satisfying experience.
In addition, another underrated aspect is the magnificent score by Ludwig Göransson. It is a great mix between classical instruments joined by loud modern hip hop beats to characterize Adonis. It's all used outstanding to hype up the audience and the sporadic inserts of the famous original soundtrack will definitely give the hardcore Rocky fans goosebumps.
Alongside Star Wars: The Force Awakens, this is another seventh installment in a franchise to be revitalized by a fan director. Both achieve a great balance in maintaining the core characteristics of the originals and adding modern aspects to both satisfy old-school fans and attract new ones