Creed • The Next Reel

"Use the name. It’s yours." Returning to the Rocky story without Rocky helming might sound like a big misstep, but with the guiding hands of Ryan Coogler, it was a huge success and breathed new life into the nearly 40-year-old franchise. Coogler’s Creed put a spin on the story that allowed for new characters to enter the frame while letting the established lead – Rocky Balboa – to take on the mantle of trainer. It all worked exceptionally well. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our Rocky series with Coogler’s 2015 film Creed. We talk about why the film works so well for us and why the fresh spin on the story helps. We look at Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson and Sylvester Stallone and what they bring to the table. We chat about DP Maryse Alberti and some of the incredible long shots scattered throughout the film and why they help lend to the authenticity of this world. We look at Ludwig Göransson’s music and how well it fits in this world, as well as the song “The Fire” by the Roots. And we debate the strength of the big moment finale in Creed’s training montage when Creed is circled by motocross bikes. It’s a solid film and one we love, and it’s well worth checking out. So do so, then tune in to this week’s show! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins. Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel! Film SundriesThank you for supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast on Patreon!Watch this film: iTunes • Amazon • Netflix • YouTubeScript TranscriptOriginal theatrical trailerOriginal poster artworkArt of the TitleFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible