Old Man Rocky
I never thought I’d see the boxing legend of the Rocky films turn mellow, wise, and grey, comfortably away from the spotlight. In Creed (2015), he becomes a mentor to Apollo Creed’s son, Adonis Creed. If any, I find Rocky’s extreme patience yet astute guidance towards Adonis admirable, even moving, as he passes on his glory days to someone only beginning.
The contrast between the Rocky Balboa then and the Rocky now can be jarring, but I welcome it. When a film attempts to show another side of a character, I get further engaged. It’s a challenge to keep a franchise going without wearing fans out, but I believe Rocky’s evolution as a character is worth appreciating!