Entertainment : Rocky returns to Palace as boxing coach in 'Creed'

One need not be proficient in “Rocky” lore to appreciate “Creed,” but for those who have followed the exploits of Sylvester Stallone’s Philadelphia boxer, Ryan Coogler’s latest film pays unexpectedly rich emotional dividends. “Creed” is so reminiscent of the 1976 film that introduced us to Rocky Balboa that I sense newcomers will fall for “Creed”’s characters the way viewers fell for “Rocky”’s 40 years ago. Though 2006’s “Rocky Balboa” was a fitting final chapter for its titular hero, “Creed” finds more of his story to explore. In the process, the film reminds us that, employed by the right director, Sylvester Stallone can be a wonderful actor.

~Odie Henderson, rogerebert.com

“Creed” takes the ring Friday, January 8 through Thursday, January 14 at 7 pm, and Monday, January 11 at 2 pm.

Movie franchises, the sequels and prequels of modern cinema, are film studio bread and butter these days. In fact, four of the last five movies shown at the Palace come to us as part of a series. Tiresome, right? And often disappointing, until it hits! I admit, I caught the “Star Wars” trailer last week and teared up at the end. Really. Chewy and Han Solo got me. Mostly Han Solo.

But the Force is still two weeks away for us Palace holdouts. In the meantime, one year before Luke and Leia, in 1976, the world fell in love with Rocky Balboa. And now, forty years and seven films later, Rocky’s back.

Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as Rocky, this time coaching on the sidelines. Michael B. Jordan is Adonis Creed, Donnie, son of the late Apollo Creed, of “Rocky II, II and IV” fame. Donnie, in need of a life change and trainer, seeks out his “uncle.”

Rated PG-13 for violence, language, and sex, and running well over two hours, “Creed” is not for our younger patrons. Popcorn recommendation – large or super.

STAR WARS

Sorry, we only had a handful of patrons interested in an all-day marathon, so that won’t be happening. However, as we in Vinton cross the universe and finally reach the end of the galaxy far, far away, tickets are already selling. Get yours today, at the box office or online at www.vintonpalace.org.