Rocky - reborn

Rating: 7/10 (30 November 2015)

It has been almost 40 years since "Rocky" burst onto the scene and wowed the film world with 10 academy award nominations and garnering 3 wins. Rocky went on to become one of the most successful film franchises of all time with "Rocky I - V", "Rocky Balboa", and released this year, "Creed".
Adonis Johnson (Michael B. Jordon) is the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed. Apollo was killed in the ring (Rocky IV) before Adonis is born. His mother dies when he is a small child and Adonis becomes a product of Foster Care. He is a troubled youth and spends a lot of time in Juvenile detention. Apollo's wife, Mary Anne Creed (Phylicia Rashad), comes to Adonis' rescue and takes him out of the foster system.
Flash forward; Adonis works in an investment bank but just doesn't feel he is fulfilling his destiny. He quits his job and moves to Philadelphia where he seeks out Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone). He convinces Rocky to train him as a fighter.
The film does slow down at times but overall is an enjoyable 133 minutes. You don't need to be familiar with the Rocky films, but it does help in filling in the back story of the characters. The movie, however, can stand on its own - unlike the final film of the "Hunger Games" series. This film is rated PG-13.
This is "Rocky" for a new generation. A young unknown fighter getting a shot at the big time.
If you have an afternoon or evening to spare - go see "Creed".