Creed III _ Movie Review

Michael B. Jordan, the talented actor and producer, has made his directorial debut with “Creed III,” the ninth film in the “Rocky” franchise and the third in the “Creed” spinoff series. Jordan not only stars in the movie as Adonis Creed, the son of legendary fighter Apollo Creed, but also directs it. His work as a director is impressive, and he brings a new level of swagger and emotional depth to the film. Jordan follows in the footsteps of Sylvester Stallone, who directed himself in four “Rocky” movies, including the moving “Rocky Balboa” in 2006. Jordan also has to follow in the footsteps of Ryan Coogler, his longtime friend and collaborator, who directed the first “Creed” movie. Jordan takes all the pressure and expectation and turns it into a film that both honors the series’ legacy while spinning the lore forward. The film is electrifying, and he draws powerhouse performances from his co-stars, including Jonathan Majors as Adonis’ childhood friend-turned-adversary.

The film takes a little while to get going, but once it does, it is a thrilling ride. The story flashes back to 2002 Los Angeles to establish the shared history between Adonis and his eventual competitor, Damian “Dame” Anderson. Adonis sneaks out of his bedroom as a young teenager to watch Dame dominate in underground fights. A violent confrontation on the way home one night seals both of their fates, with Adonis going on to greatness and Dame heading for an 18-year prison term. The story then moves ahead 15 years to show that Adonis now has the boxing career Dame always dreamed of, and another jump to the present day reveals that Adonis has retired from the ring and is living a luxurious life in a modern mansion in the Hollywood Hills.

Jordan’s eye for detail is on display as he efficiently reflects the kind of wealth Adonis enjoys with his wife, Bianca (Tessa Thompson), and their deaf daughter, Amara (Mila Davis-Kent). The minimalist elegance and creamy neutrals—the work of production designer Jahmin Assa and costume designer Lizz Wolf—instantly indicate the tasteful, peaceful persona Adonis now seeks to exude to the world.

Adonis and Bianca are both shaping the next generation of fighters as a behind-the-scenes force at their own Delphi Boxing Academy. Bianca is penning tunes and working with new talent as a producer. They tell themselves they’re content, but there’s an intriguing tension in the mix as it’s clear they both still long for the spotlight that once defined them. Thompson brings an earthiness and sensitivity to this heavily masculine movie, and young Davis-Kent—who is a deaf actress—shines brightly in her first major role, more than holding her own opposite veteran performers with her sparky presence and timing. Phylicia Rashad also returns with a crucial, graceful performance as Adonis’ mother, Mary-Anne. The frequent use of sign language as a means of communicating within the family is a meaningful, authentic touch.

Their reverie is shattered with the arrival of Dame, who has toughened himself in prison and now seeks the boxing glory he believes is his due. There’s a certain geeky glee in witnessing the spectacle of Kang vs. Killmonger, given the significant villainous presence both actors have had within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Majors, as always, is tremendous. He brings a deeply unsettling energy to the role—there’s something volatile about Dame beneath his seemingly placid exterior. The fact that he isn’t obviously raging all the time is what makes him scarier: He’s watching, plotting, seething, but his imposing physicality ultimately makes him ferocious

The fight itself is incredibly intense and well choreographed, but it’s the moments in between the punches that really stand out. The film takes the time to explore the emotional weight of the bout, from the burden of legacy to the deep-rooted friendship that lies at the heart of the conflict. And while the outcome of the fight may be predictable, it’s still satisfying in the way it honors the series’ long-standing themes of perseverance, heart, and the bonds that unite us.

Beyond the fight scenes, though, “Creed III” also grapples with some weighty themes. One of the film’s central ideas is the notion of what it means to be a father and a son. Adonis’ complicated relationship with his own father, the legendary Apollo Creed, has been a major part of the series since its inception, and “Creed III” explores that dynamic in even greater depth. Meanwhile, the arrival of Dame, who is also struggling to reconcile with his own father, adds another layer to this exploration. It’s a poignant and emotionally resonant thread that adds a great deal of depth to the film.

Another central theme is the idea of reinvention. Adonis, Dame, and several other characters in the film are all struggling to figure out who they are and who they want to be. For Adonis, that means trying to move out of his father’s shadow and make a name for himself as a boxer and as a person. For Dame, it means trying to find a new identity after spending nearly two decades in prison. And for others, it means trying to break free of the expectations and limitations that society has placed on them. It’s a universal idea that many viewers will be able to relate to, and it’s one that gives the film a great deal of heart.

Of course, none of this would matter if the performances weren’t up to snuff. But thankfully, “Creed III” boasts a truly exceptional cast. Michael B. Jordan is, as always, a force to be reckoned with. He brings a fierce intensity and a great deal of vulnerability to his portrayal of Adonis, and his direction is assured and confident. Tessa Thompson is also excellent as Bianca, bringing a warmth and depth to the character that helps anchor the film. Jonathan Majors, meanwhile, is a revelation as Dame, exuding a quiet menace and a deep sense of sadness that makes him a truly compelling antagonist. And the supporting cast, including Phylicia Rashad, Wood Harris, and Russell Hornsby, are all top-notch.

Overall, “Creed III” is a worthy addition to the “Rocky” franchise and a testament to Michael B. Jordan’s talents as an actor and a director. It’s a film that honors the legacy of the series while also forging its own path, and it’s a must-see for fans of the genre.

And yet, for all its rousing thrills and pulse-pounding fights, "Creed III" remains a deeply personal film, exploring themes of family, legacy, and the choices we make in life. Adonis and Bianca's relationship is a major focus of the movie, and the two actors share an easy, natural chemistry that brings their characters to life. Their scenes together are tender, funny, and deeply affecting, as they grapple with the pressures of fame and the demands of parenthood.

Ultimately, what makes "Creed III" such a success is Jordan's ability to balance the demands of a Hollywood blockbuster with the intimacy of an indie drama. He's equally comfortable staging epic fight scenes and quiet character moments, and his attention to detail is evident throughout the film. Whether it's the production design, the costumes, or the music, every element of "Creed III" is carefully crafted to tell a specific story.

Of course, the film is not without its flaws. At times, it can feel a bit formulaic, relying on familiar tropes and clichés to move the story forward. And while Majors is excellent as the film's villain, his character's motivations can sometimes feel a bit muddled. But these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise an exceptional film.

In the end, "Creed III" is a testament to the power of the "Rocky" franchise, and to the talent and vision of Michael B. Jordan. He has taken a beloved series and breathed new life into it, crafting a film that is both thrilling and heartfelt. And with rumors already swirling about a fourth "Creed" movie, it's clear that this franchise has plenty of fight left in it.