Rocky is easily one of the greatest sports movies of all time and the perfect example of a true underdog story. Sure the plots of the sequels got a little crazy in the later movies, but they were still fun to watch. For sports fans, Rocky I-IV are still essential, despite some bumps along the way.
However, as Hollywood clearly ran out of ideas a long time ago, Rocky was resurrected for Rocky Balboa, the unnecessary sixth film of the franchise. It was released over 15 years after Rocky V, and was generally viewed as 'ok.' For many fans of the franchise, the movie was essentially pointless.
Of course, that was six years ago. Most had assumed that Rocky had once again entered retirement, only this time, it would stick. That clearly wasn't the case, as a spin-off film, Creed, was announced in 2013. Then, following its announcement, there was barely any news on the film...until now. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Creed is scheduled to begin filming in January.
Creed will tell the story of Apollo Creed's grandson Adonis, played by Michael B. Jordan. Despite his heritage, Adonis' family has made sure he stays away from the ring following his grandfather's death at the hands of Ivan Drago in Rocky IV. Obviously, that doesn't work, and Adonis soon meets up with an aging Rocky Balboa, who will take on a Burgess Meredith-type role as Creed's new trainer.
As for Creed's competition, boxer Tony Bellew is said to be in talks with the studio about appearing as the film's main antagonist 'Pretty Ricky Porter.' Andre Ward is also in talks to appear in the film, though his role in the production is currently unknown.
If Creed did indeed begin filming this January, there's a definite possibility that the movie could be ready by the end of next year. However, with release schedules quickly becoming crowded, there's really know telling if Creed would even release in 2015 or try to find a less crowded spot on the calendar.
Either way, it seems that the Rocky franchise is continuing on, whether fans want it to or not.
Photo: Columbia Pictures/MGM
