Creed (2015)

Overview

"Creed" is a 2015 American sports drama, the seventh film in the "Rocky" franchise and a spin-off/sequel to "Rocky Balboa" (2006). Directed by Ryan Coogler, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Aaron Covington. The story centers on Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan), the son of the late world heavyweight champion Apollo Creed. Seeking to become a professional boxer, he tracks down Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), his father's longtime friend and rival, and asks him to be his trainer. The film explores themes of legacy, identity, and self-determination, showing Adonis's journey to recognition beyond his father's shadow. At the same time, the student-mentor relationship develops, while Rocky faces his own trials. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and acting, particularly Stallone, who was nominated for an Oscar.

Franchise chronology

• "Rocky" (1976) — the first film, where Rocky Balboa gets a shot at the world championship title.
• "Rocky II" (1979) — Rocky gets a rematch against Apollo Creed.
• "Rocky III" (1982) — Rocky faces Clubber Lang and loses his trainer Mickey.
• "Rocky IV" (1985) — Rocky avenges the death of Apollo Creed in a fight with Ivan Drago.
• "Rocky V" (1990) — Rocky trains a young boxer Tommy Gunn.
• "Rocky Balboa" (2006) — an aging Rocky returns to the ring for an exhibition fight.
• "Creed" (2015) — Adonis Creed, Apollo's son, trains under Rocky's guidance.
• "Creed II" (2018) — Adonis faces Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago.
• "Creed III" (2023) — Adonis confronts childhood friend Damian Anderson.