Creed 3 Review: Michael B. Jordan Knocks Out Audiences with an Emotional Punch

by Tom February 28, 2023

Creed 3 knocks out audiences with its hard-hitting action and emotionally charged performances, cementing its place as one of the top sports dramas of the year.

In Creed 3, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) faces his toughest opponent yet: his own legacy. As he navigates the pressures of being a boxing champion and a new father, Adonis must also confront the long shadow of his father’s legacy, while contending with a new rival in the ring. Along the way, he seeks guidance from his trainer and mentor Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), and his partner Bianca (Tessa Thompson), who provide unwavering support as he faces his biggest challenges.

The performances in Creed 3 are as powerful as the punches thrown in the ring. Jordan again shines as the conflicted and vulnerable Adonis, while Stallone brings a quiet gravitas to his role as the wise and weathered Rocky. The film’s action sequences are thrilling and intense, showcasing director Steven Caple Jr.’s deft hand at capturing the visceral nature of the sport. Exploring Adonis’s familial legacy and the weight of expectations adds an emotional depth to the film that resonates long after the final bell rings.

While Creed 3 is a worthy addition to the franchise, some plot points feel familiar and formulaic, especially in the build-up to the climactic fight. Additionally, some supporting characters, such as the new rival boxer (played by Florian Munteanu) and Adonis’s estranged half-sister (played by Teyonah Parris), could have been given more development to flesh out their roles in the story fully.

Despite minor flaws, Creed 3 delivers a knockout performance with gripping action, heartfelt performances, and a poignant exploration of legacy and identity. Fans of the franchise will not be disappointed, and newcomers will be drawn in by the raw power and emotion on display.

RATING: 4.0 out of 5.0