Creed III

Creed III is a 2023 sports action film produced in the United States. Michael B. Jordan is the director and main actor. This is also Michael B. Jordan’s first directorial film. The film is a sequel to Creed II starring Tessa Thompson, Jonathan Majors, Wood Harris, Florian Munteanu and Phylicia Rashad

In the thrilling and gratifying “Creed III,” it is evident that Michael B. Jordan has skillfully taken the reins of Sylvester Stallone’s enduring boxing film series, both in front of and behind the camera. Reprising his role as Adonis Creed, Jordan infuses his directorial debut with the familiar “Rocky” drama and grandiose ring entrances, while injecting a fresh perspective with stylish, anime-inspired fights and a newfound emphasis on deaf representation. The previous two “Creed” films delved into Adonis’s journey to self-discovery, guided by Stallone’s Rocky Balboa, as he emerged from the shadow of his father, Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers). In this installment, Adonis embraces retirement, trading punches for tea parties with his daughter, Amara (Mila Davis-Kent), offering support to his wife, Bianca (Tessa Thompson), and nurturing the next generation of boxing stars. Although this is a “Creed” film – and by extension, a “Rocky” film, albeit without Stallone’s presence – a few years of inactivity in the ring are easily remedied with intense training and feats like pulling a small plane. As always, the film excels in its motivational montages and striking a balance between high drama and grounded storytelling. With the assistance of his wife and deaf daughter, who embodies the Creed family’s resilience, Adonis must navigate challenges using both his words and fists. Despite a somewhat explanatory screenplay – where forewarnings often lead to inevitable outcomes – Jordan adeptly propels the narrative forward, eliciting strong performances from the cast, particularly Majors, whose character exudes a poignant, haunting aura. The boxing sequences are captured with finesse; sweat glistens like snowflakes, and slow-motion shots capture the impact of every blow. While I found myself yearning for Rocky Balboa’s philosophical musings to make an appearance, Sylvester Stallone’s absence is felt. The conclusion hints at the direction of “Creed IV” and showcases Jordan’s potential as a director beyond this film. “Creed III” delivers on all fronts, proving to be a satisfying addition to the franchise’s legacy.