Creed II (2018) Movie Review

Synopsis:

Now a global boxing icon, Adonis Johnson (Michael B. Jordan) has to balance his life alongside personal obligations. He's soon challenged to a bout by Viktor Drago (Florian Munteanu). Viktor happens to be the son of Apollo Creed’s killer, Ivan (Dolph Lundgren).

Review:

After Ryan Coogler’s fan-pleasing Creed (2015), a sequel soon followed.

A difference between Creed II and its predecessor is a different director. Steven Caple Jr. directs Creed II, bringing a familiar tone to the film.

Creed II has the same dynamic boxing sequences and good performances as the first. Despite this, it has a more unfocused storyline.

Given this film’s connection to Rocky IV (1985), there is always the risk of relying on callbacks to past films.

Sly’s Rocky and Dolph’s Drago both display unfinished business. This is despite having a couple of scenes together.

Drago lost his fame and wife due to his fight with Rocky, yet Rocky became famous.

This is a small yet important development that adds to both characters.

As a whole, these connections to Rocky IV have their merits. Despite this, Creed II’s story direction is otherwise standard.

Creed II takes a more methodical approach with its characters. This, while appreciated, can slow down proceedings.

Regardless of a less focused approach, Creed II still has a good story.

Michael’s Adonis and Sylvester’s Rocky have the same relatable interactions in this film.

Stallone is still able to convey his underdog persona to good effect. He also provides glimpses of compassion throughout.

Although there is a segment where Rocky isn’t present, he soon returns to deliver the heart.

Making her return from the previous film is Tessa Thompson's Bianca. She also gets good development in Creed II.

One of the major developments involving her character is her baby.

This adds to the human element once more, with Sly’s Rocky also adding in more for good measure.

A new addition to the cast is German-born actor Florian Munteanu as Viktor Drago. Florian brings an intimidating presence to proceedings.

Florian’s sheer presence is clear in his first in-ring encounter with Adonis. Take, for example, how he throws each punch with devastating effect.

This puts into perspective how much of a threat he is, heightening the film’s stakes in the process.

Creed II’s boxing sequences are also fast-paced, well-shot, and impactful. They also contain good choreography.

This film’s training sequences are also dynamic. They showcase the main differences between Adonis’s and Viktor’s styles.

Adonis, for example, trains in bright, welcoming environments. Drago, for example, trains in dark and secluded environments.

Creed II's visuals are reminiscent of the previous entry. These include sweeping city shots and in-ring action.

Take, for example, each time a fighter enters the ring, the film presents a unique visual style.

Aside from these, the film’s other shots are not as striking.

Conclusion:

As a whole, Creed II is a good sequel that includes good boxing sequences. It also has good character performances.

Creed II's story does lose momentum due to Rocky's minimal presence at times.

Despite this, it is a film recommended for franchise fans.

Sam’s Action Reaction score:

Characters - 7.5/10

Story - 7/10

Action - 7.5/10

Visuals - 7/10

Soundtrack - 7/10

Overall score: 7.2 out of 10