Creed 2

It’s hard to believe that after 42 years, this franchise is still healthy. Not to mention still has Sly attached to it. That’s pretty amazing. Not sure that you can say that about too many other franchises. Rocky movies are like comfort food. They follow a simple template and every movie has used it down to a tee. Aside from Rocky V (brutal), they’ve all worked. Creed 2 is not as good as Creed, but it still works. The film deals more with Adonis’ (Michael B. Jordan) personal life with Bianca. They get engaged, she has a baby and there are some family conflicts to deal with. If you saw Rocky IV, then you’ll recognize much of what’s happening here. Dolph Lundgren reprises his giant Russian Ivan Drago and Adonis ultimately fights his son. Matter of fact, much of this film mirrors that movie. They even bring back Bridget Nielsen. Sly is still around with his goofy hat and he gives another very tender and emotional performance. People forget that he can really act. If you want a boxing metaphor, this film isn’t a knockout, but packs a good punch.

Rating (***)