An unexpected injection of fantastic storytelling and presentation to a classic franchise

Rating: 9/10 (11 December 2015)

I went into this with a bit of tempered expectations. I am wary of sequels, even "honored legacies" like this, but Ryan Coogler, Jordan, and Stalone restored my faith. This movie adds an amazing personal take on the "Rocky" universe, and makes characters we come to know and love who join forces with characters we've known and loved for years. Storytelling and acting chops were showed to me I didn't know anyone assembled had in them (Especially sly).
And lets talk about the Score! I've found a brand new assemblage for my "study/workout" motivational music. Ludwig blends the best of a beloved jewel of the 70's and 80's with the best of today, in all its grungy imperfection, and it was quite literally music to my ears, street, and orchestral, and club, and just utterly uplifting. This music made me see Adonis Creed Sprouting angelic wings spouting fire as he made a triumphant lunge punch on the screen. It just....captured me in the moment in ways that few movies have in recent years.
I'd gush more, but I"m limited in words...
Conclusion: Solid 9/10. A damn good movie, doesn't quite make my top 20 of all time, but easily slides into the top 40. Cornball and delicious with just the right amount of grit and real conversation to keep it grounded. See this movie. Even if you aren't into fighter movies, consider this one, its a damn good story.