Aging with Grace

Rating: 7/10 (7 December 2015)

This my friends, is how you age with grace. I thought the Rocky franchise was a forty year old odyssey that that was one brilliant shipwreck away from an ugly demise. The original was a Great Movie, but it was never close to being equaled. Creed is most like the 1976 classic, and it proved that the series had not just one punch, but maybe even the steam to go another round.
There is certainly a formula to these films. I was beginning to grow tired wondering how Rocky would once again be the underdog and why I should care. The protagonist switch eliminates this problem. I love the new Adonis Johnson character. Who is more compelling? A man with nothing forced to fight or a many with everything who chooses to fight? His backstory is fresh. Micheal B. Jordan sells this new suave smart protagonist. He is now an actor to look out for. His performance makes Creed's first third one of the best of the year. And of course there is Stallone. It is easy to forget how ridiculously talented this man really is. One can only wonder what could have been if his career had taken a few different turns. Rocky naturally fits into a new supporting role. The lovable meathead and his quirky charisma already possessed traits more typically found in a side character. The transition is effortless. Rocky's essence remains pristine, the feeling of nostalgia could not be stronger.
The plot is a little less inspiring. There is a first fight conducted with brilliant cinematography/editing that punctuates a perfect beginning. What follows is a long decrescendo. The plot simply becomes predictable or boring. The new characters are not expanded in a compelling way. I will not belabor the bad, but the weakness of Creed's middle prevents any chance at true greatness. However, in true Rocky fashion, the film does rally. The iconography of the Rocky Steps can never be replaced, but we are provided with a memorable substitute. And a reevaluation. It is difficult to discuss the final fight without spoilers. This new champ is not Apollo, but the intensity that ebbed and flowed in previous sequels returns in fullness here. Satisfying without cheese.
Creed provides nostalgia without any of the associated cheapness. Inspired and well made, this Rocky installment is the new model for revitalizing ancient franchises. Creed lacks some components necessary for an Oscar run, but will be remembered as one of the year's highlights for practically all audiences.