By Hugh Brown
NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, NY – “Creed II” was a great film, although falls victim to predictability. Despite this, it still delivers an entertaining experience with amazing acting and music.
“Creed II” is the second film in the Creed franchise and the eighth film in the Rocky franchise. The film tells the story of Adonis Creed, son of former heavyweight boxing champion Apollo Creed, and his trainer, Rocky Balboa. In 1985, Soviet boxer Ivan Drago killed Adonis’ father in a boxing match, but Rocky came back to beat Drago. Now, 30 years later, Drago has returned with his son Viktor and wants his son to beat Adonis as payback to Rocky.
The plot sounds like something out of a soap opera, but the film itself is made so well that you don’t notice it. That’s why the Rocky franchise has always been so beloved; the films are not so much about the plot, but about pushing yourself and going the distance.
“Creed II” looks beautiful. Scenes that take place in the California desert are picturesque. The lighting in the fighting scenes is harsh and strong, making the sweat look more noticeable. It also makes the punches have a harder impact and the blood more difficult to look at.
The music in the film is fantastic. With songs from artists like Lil Wayne and A$AP Rocky, the film certainly has a different tone than the Rocky films did. If you like rap, the film’s music is for you. Even if you don’t, the context which the songs are used in is appropriate and fits.
The characters in this film are all great. Adonis (Donnie) played by Michael B. Jordan is compelling and believable in his motivations. Sylvester Stallone is great as Rocky like he has been for the past 40 years. The Russian father and son duo are a bit corny, but they fit well in the film and are scary enough.
“Creed II” is a film that’s tough to watch if it’s your first Rocky franchise film. I’d recommend seeing the first Creed or the first Rocky before watching it.
Overall, I’d give the film a 9/10.
See “Creed II” in theaters now.
Niagara Wire 