Freud theorised that every son would kill his father, but what happens when the father is already dead? For the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed, the answer is simple: fight his name.

Ryan Coogler, an accomplished talent after just two films, wisely trades in the authenticity of ‘televising’ Creed’s bouts, a platitudinous technique used so ubiquitously in boxing movies, for intimate handycam  – a decision that casts audiences as pecking vultures, feasting upon each fighter’s crusade.

His chief gift, however, is a career-best performance from Stallone – who slips back into his most beloved creation like a warm pair of slippers.

A seventh chapter of an acclaimed franchise that serves as a sideways sequel, reboot, and continuation of an idolised older character’s story? This kind of movie will never catch on.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Tony Bellow

DIRECTOR: Ryan Coogler

WRITERS: Ryan Cooler, Aaron Covington 

SYNOPSIS: The former World Heavyweight Champion Rocky Balboa (Stallone) serves as a trainer and mentor to Adonis Johnson (Jordan), the son of his late friend and former rival Apollo Creed.