It’s not necessarily a given that a spin-off series of a classic franchise will be as great as its predecessor. Yet, this is certainly the case with the “Creed” films, which are directly tied to 2006’s “Rocky Balboa” and follow the titular Adonis Creed.
Played by Michael B Jordan, who aptly encapsulates an Adonis, Creed is the protégé of Sylvester Stallone’s famed former pugilist, and a boxing powerhouse in his own right.
Today sees the release of “Creed III” in Malaysian theatres, the date apparently intended to commemorate the fact that this is the third film of the franchise. That’s…clever. (Insert straight-faced emoji here.)
So, what’s it about? Creed has now retired from boxing having reached the zenith of his career. But, just as he starts to enjoy his family life, a ghost from his past emerges in the form of Damian Anderson (Jonathan Majors).
We learn that during their childhoods, Creed and Anderson were inseparable, with the latter acting as an older brother of sorts. Now, having spent years in prison, the released Anderson is apparently keen to rekindle his relationship with Creed.
Alas, it soon becomes clear it isn’t friendship he is seeking, but revenge against Creed, for seemingly abandoning him to his fate behind bars. With Anderson a dangerously capable fighter, Creed has to step into the ring once more to confront his friend turned foe.
Now, you might be wondering, “Do I need to have watched the previous ‘Creed’ films to appreciate this one?” Happily, the answer is no, not at all.
Like any good franchise film, “Creed III” stands on its own two boxing-shoed feet. In fact, it is a good entry point for newbies to the franchise, being emblematic of the series overall.
The quality of a sports flick lives or dies by its leads. In that regard, “Creed III” does not disappoint.
It is no secret that Jordan is a charismatic actor, as one might have noticed from his stints as Killmonger in “Black Panther”. Here, he makes Creed an engaging and nuanced character, one who acknowledges his failings in regard to Anderson.
His decision to take up arms (or gloves) against his former friend weighs heavily on him, and it shows.
Of course, a good protagonist needs a good antagonist to work off of. To that end, Majors – one of the few redeeming qualities in Marvel’s recent “Ant-Man 3” – steps up to the plate, again bringing to life a character the audience ought to oppose and yet may feel sympathetic towards.
From the perceived warmth and sincerity in his early interactions with Creed, to the gradual unveiling of his bitterness and thirst for vengeance, Majors is convincing – so much so that, while one might not agree with his actions, one might understand where he is coming from.
“Creed III” also marks Jordan’s directorial debut, and at this he does a commendable job. From the cinematography to fight choreography, things move smoothly and authentically, giving you little inkling that this is the multitalented actor’s first time at the helm of a feature.
Pacing wise, the story unfolds at a satisfactory rate, and you will neither feel bored nor confused by what’s going on.
Naturally there are boxing matches aplenty in the film, and they are all thoroughly engaging even if you’re not a fan. No holds are barred in depicting the brutality of the sport, with powerful swings and blows knocking the air out of the audience as much as the characters.
All in all, with charismatic leads, realistic fights, and a compelling storyline, “Creed III” is a boxing match worth booking your tickets for.
As of press time, ‘Creed III’ is screening in cinemas nationwide.