An extremely predictable sequel that is saved by strong performances. The first “Creed” suffered from going a predictable route, and the sequel doubles up on that. A half an hour into the film, I already knew all the broad strokes that the plot would deliver. An aside from a few slight deviations, I saw everything that was coming. This severely hurt my enjoyment of the movie. As well put together as the fights were, the results never felt in question. And when characters agonized over their decisions, you knew what their choice would be before they did. Fortunately, the moments between the characters still worked well. All the leads have strong chemistry with each other, and Michael B. Jordon and Stallone both deliver great performances. Even though there’s a lot of angst, a few well-timed jokes lighten things up. Also, there’s also a surprisingly deep story arc for Ivan Drago and his son that almost makes you want to root for them. He’s so much more fleshed-out here than his one-dimensional villainous role in “Rocky IV.”
**1/2 out of *****