'Creed II' is a Great Sports Flick, and An Even Better Family Drama

Movie franchises are everywhere. Some seem unnecessary, but some just feel right. Creed II falls on the latter. Because a Rocky reboot or remake or sequel, however bad or good they may be, always feels right. They always stick to its essence and never forget the important stuff--aside from passion, it always goes back to family, friendship and love. That is the legacy of Rocky, and Creed II continues to strengthen that gift.

Warner Bros. Pictures.

Creed II jump starts three years after Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) found his footing under Rocky Balboa's (ever charismatic Sylvester Stallone) wing. With his success, he is now also ready to start a family with his longtime lover Bianca (Tessa Thompson), a rising star who's also finding her place in the music scene. These three are the heart of the film, and they carry it together from start to finish.

As always, it's not rainbows and butterflies. Adonis Creed still struggles to follow the footsteps of his father, Apollo Creed, who as we know is also a former heavyweight champion. To worsen it, a younger newcomer confronts his self-doubt. His name is Viktor Drago, and he's none other than the son of Ivan Drago, the Russian boxer who killed his father three decades ago. A bit cliche if you ask me, but Rocky is all about that and we're just here to eat it all up.

Warner Bros. Pictures.

If there's anything this year has taught me, is that using the same good old formula isn't so bad. If it works, then I really don't mind. Creed II is just like its predecessors. It lacks Ryan Coogler's flair from Creed, sure, but it's still as compelling, as heartwarming, and as heart-racing as ever.

The good thing about this sequel is that it returns to its origin but it keeps on making compelling arguments as to why it needs continue. Like in this sequel, everyone seems like a hero and it still makes complex dilemma for the protagonists. Even the alleged villain Viktor Drago is someone we could root for because of his tragic history with his parents. The future of this franchise could explore further on that. Although I wouldn't mind if they continue to focus on Adonis' growing family.

Warner Bros. Pictures.

Which leads me to Bianca and their baby. One of the most heartbreaking moments of this film is when they found out that their baby inherited Bianca's hearing problems. This scene is a true standout to Michael B. Jordan and Tessa Thompson's overall stellar performance. It would make people weep and root for them. Then we have Sylvester Stallone who hasn't lost his charisma over the years. They make a great ensemble that each of them offers something likable to the table. I particularly enjoyed Thompson's singing and numbers, Stallone's pleasantries, and Michael B. Jordan being a boss.

On its own, Creed II is a great modern sports flick, but it is an even better family drama. Bottom line, it captures what Rocky is all about. Formulaic or not, it still rules.