Creed III Revives a Sylvester Stallone Rocky Legacy Set to Continue in Creed IV

Michael B. Jordan Continues the Legacy of the Rocky Franchise with Creed III and Creed IV

In a significant nod to the traditions of the Rocky franchise, Michael B. Jordan has taken the reins as director for Creed III, a role he will reprise for the anticipated Creed IV. Since the introduction of the legendary character Rocky Balboa in 1976, the franchise has expanded to include a total of nine films. The six Rocky movies narrated the journey of Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa, whose return in Rocky Balboa (2006) marked a turning point, signaling an era where Stallone transitioned from an active fighter to mentor.

After a prolonged hiatus, the Rocky franchise experienced a renaissance with the release of Creed in 2015, centered around Adonis Creed, portrayed by Jordan and the son of Apollo Creed, Rocky’s longtime friend. Although Stallone reprised his role as Rocky in the initial two Creed installments, his absence in Creed III signaled a new chapter, firmly establishing Jordan as the franchise’s torchbearer.

Michael B. Jordan’s Directorial Role Reinstates a Sylvester Stallone Tradition

Sylvester Stallone’s Directorial Influence in the Rocky Series

Previously, Ryan Coogler directed the inaugural Creed film while Steven Caple Jr. helmed its sequel. In a bold move, Jordan directed Creed III, marking both his directorial debut and the first instance of him directing in the series. His transition into this role was seamless as Adonis Creed evolves into a more mature character, allowing Jordan to showcase his directorial capabilities alongside his performance.

Rocky/Creed Movies	RT Critics Score
Rocky (1976)	93%
Rocky II (1979)	70%
Rocky III (1982)	65%
Rocky IV (1985)	39%
Rocky V (1990)	32%
Rocky Balboa (2006)	78%
Creed (2015)	95%
Creed II (2018)	83%
Creed III (2023)	89%

Jordan’s journey as a director honors the legacy left by Stallone, who directed four of his own films within the Rocky lineage. Although John G. Avildsen directed the first and fifth installments, Stallone’s mastery behind the camera in Rocky II, Rocky III, Rocky IV, and Rocky Balboa has become a hallmark of the series. This historical context illustrates how critical Stallone’s dual role as actor and director has been to the franchise, setting the stage for Jordan to continue that tradition.

Elevating Creed III: How Michael B. Jordan’s Direction Brought a Fresh Perspective

Proving His Directorial Skills in Creed III

While the previous films in the Creed series received acclaim, Jordan’s directorial approach in Creed III introduced a new dimension. His experiences working with various directors were crucial as he crafted a compelling narrative. Following the personal storytelling tradition established in earlier films, Creed III focuses on Adonis’s journey as he confronts a childhood friend, Damian, sparking an emotionally charged rivalry.

Jordan’s inspirations from anime were particularly evident in the climactic boxing match, creating a distinctive and unforgettable scene in the franchise. By eliminating the audience from Dodger Stadium during vital moments of the fight, he intensified the focus on Adonis and Damian, rendering their conflict one of the most intimate in the franchise’s history.

Continuing the Trend: Jordan’s Direction of Creed IV

Jordan Set to Direct the Next Chapter in the Creed Series

Jordan’s proven ability as a director positions him as the ideal candidate for Creed IV. Following the triumph of Creed III, it would have been a missed opportunity had he opted not to direct the next installment. Jordan’s enthusiasm for directing is palpable, hinting at further contributions to the franchise’s narrative evolution.

Stallone’s profound impact on the Rocky series is undeniable, deriving from his passion for the character and the stories within the franchise. Similarly, Jordan’s dedication to Creed mirrors that fervor, suggesting that Creed IV may achieve comparable success to its predecessor.

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