There are three Creed movies released as of late 2024. These films follow Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, as he forges his own legacy in the world of boxing.
The Creed Saga: A Legacy Reborn
The Creed films have revitalized the Rocky franchise, introducing a new generation of fans to the iconic world of boxing and personal triumph. More than just sequels, they stand on their own as compelling stories about family, ambition, and overcoming adversity. They explore the challenges Adonis faces as he tries to escape his father’s shadow and establish himself as a champion in his own right. The success of the Creed movies lies in their ability to balance nostalgia for the Rocky films with fresh storylines and contemporary themes. They’ve broadened the scope of the franchise, attracting a diverse audience that appreciates both the classic boxing tropes and the modern, relevant narratives. The evolution of Adonis Creed from a raw talent to a seasoned fighter, both inside and outside the ring, is a testament to the enduring power of the Rocky formula adapted for a new era.
A Deep Dive into Each Creed Film
Each film in the Creed trilogy offers a unique perspective on Adonis’s journey, exploring different facets of his character and the challenges he faces. Let’s break down each movie individually:
Creed (2015): The Beginning of a Legacy
- Directed by: Ryan Coogler
- Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson
- Plot: Adonis Johnson, the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed, travels to Philadelphia to seek out Rocky Balboa as his trainer. Reluctantly, Rocky agrees to mentor Adonis, guiding him through the rigorous training needed to become a professional boxer. The film culminates in a championship fight against “Pretty” Ricky Conlan, where Adonis proves his worth and establishes himself as a contender. This film is about finding identity and proving oneself despite overwhelming expectations. Coogler’s direction brought a fresh, modern aesthetic to the franchise, while retaining the heart and soul that made the Rocky films so beloved.
Creed II (2018): Confronting the Past
- Directed by: Steven Caple Jr.
- Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Dolph Lundgren
- Plot: Adonis faces Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago, the boxer who killed his father, Apollo Creed. Driven by revenge and a desire to defend his family’s honor, Adonis agrees to the fight. This sequel delves into the themes of legacy and vengeance, exploring how the sins of the fathers can haunt their sons. Rocky, still a mentor, grapples with his own past and provides guidance to Adonis as he confronts his demons. The film’s emotional core lies in the complicated relationship between Adonis and Viktor, both burdened by their fathers’ shadows.
Creed III (2023): The Price of Success
- Directed by: Michael B. Jordan (Directorial Debut)
- Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson, Jonathan Majors
- Plot: Adonis Creed faces Damian Anderson, a childhood friend and boxing prodigy recently released from prison. Damian, bitter and resentful of Adonis’s success, challenges him for the championship. This film explores the themes of friendship, betrayal, and the impact of trauma. With Rocky absent for the first time in the franchise, Adonis must rely on himself and his family to overcome this new challenge. Creed III marks a significant shift in the franchise, with Adonis stepping into a more prominent leadership role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Creed Movies
This section provides answers to some of the most common questions surrounding the Creed movies, offering valuable insights and clarifications.
FAQ 1: Will there be a Creed 4?
While nothing is officially confirmed, Michael B. Jordan has expressed interest in continuing the Creed franchise. Discussions are reportedly underway, but the direction of a potential fourth film remains unclear. The future of the Creed franchise hinges on the success of subsequent projects and the creative vision of its key players.
FAQ 2: Is Sylvester Stallone in Creed III?
No, Sylvester Stallone does not appear in Creed III. This marks the first film in the Rocky/Creed franchise where Rocky Balboa is not present. The storyline explains that Rocky has moved on and is no longer actively involved in Adonis’s life. This was a deliberate creative decision to allow Adonis to stand on his own as a character.
FAQ 3: Are the Creed movies considered part of the Rocky franchise?
Yes, the Creed movies are spin-offs and sequels to the Rocky film series. They exist within the same cinematic universe and feature characters and storylines that connect to the original films. They are considered a direct continuation of the Rocky saga.
FAQ 4: Where can I watch the Creed movies?
The Creed movies are typically available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and HBO Max (depending on your region and current licensing agreements). They are also available for purchase or rental on these platforms and through digital retailers. Always check your local streaming services for availability.
FAQ 5: What order should I watch the Rocky and Creed movies?
For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the Rocky films in order (Rocky I-V and Rocky Balboa) before watching the Creed movies. Understanding the backstory of Rocky Balboa and his relationship with Apollo Creed is crucial for appreciating Adonis’s journey. A chronological viewing order provides the most context.
FAQ 6: Are the Creed movies based on a true story?
The Creed movies are fictional, but they draw inspiration from real-life boxing stories and themes. The characters and events are not based on specific individuals or incidents, but they reflect the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of the boxing world. They are fictional narratives with realistic elements.
FAQ 7: Who composed the music for the Creed movies?
Ludwig Göransson composed the score for Creed and Creed II, creating a distinctive sound that blends orchestral music with hip-hop influences. Joseph Shirley composed the score for Creed III. The music is integral to the emotional impact of the films.
FAQ 8: Did Michael B. Jordan direct Creed III?
Yes, Creed III marked Michael B. Jordan’s directorial debut. He not only starred in the film but also took on the role of director, showcasing his versatility and creative vision. This was a significant milestone in his career.
FAQ 9: What is the Rotten Tomatoes score for each Creed movie?
- Creed (2015): 95%
- Creed II (2018): 83%
- Creed III (2023): 87%
These scores indicate that the Creed movies have been critically acclaimed, demonstrating their quality and appeal.
FAQ 10: What is the box office gross for each Creed movie?
- Creed (2015): Approximately $173 million worldwide
- Creed II (2018): Approximately $214 million worldwide
- Creed III (2023): Approximately $275 million worldwide
These figures highlight the commercial success of the Creed franchise, demonstrating its popularity with audiences.
FAQ 11: What are some similar movies to the Creed films?
If you enjoyed the Creed movies, you might also like other boxing films like the original Rocky movies, Raging Bull, Million Dollar Baby, The Fighter, and Southpaw. These films share similar themes of perseverance, determination, and overcoming adversity. Exploring similar films can broaden your appreciation for the genre.
FAQ 12: What themes are consistently explored in the Creed films?
The Creed films consistently explore themes of family, legacy, identity, redemption, and the struggle to overcome adversity. They examine the complex relationships between fathers and sons, the burden of expectations, and the importance of finding your own path in life. These recurring themes contribute to the franchise’s emotional depth and resonance.