The Torch passes on...

Rating: 9/10 (17 September 2016)

I purposely did not read the reviews and kept my expectations very low since this was the 7th installment right?! LOL After the first 2 the magic was just not there. Wow! Didn't realize the emotional wallop that was coming. Made me realize how emotionally attached one gets while growing up with "Rocky Balboa". Congrats to Ryan Coogler for the wonderful meld of the old Rocky with the new. Michael Jordan showed the major Hollywood chops to carry the main role with creative finesse and talent. Coogler more than adequately captured the feel of big city Philly just as in the first two movies. Sly more than ever deserved his Oscar nomination and win, has had to be his best role since the Rambo series. Such a surprise to see the depth in his face in his words and his non words! Silence was truly golden between those two. Just loved how they portrayed the tightening bond between Creed and Rocky and how they ultimately ended up needing each other. Nothing felt corny, clichéd or false. Had the big 'ole lump forming last half of the movie, only to finally have the "pipe burst" at the last scene. Job well done. Highly recommended.