Video Interview: Ryan Coogler on 'Creed'

This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of cinema’s most poignant and treasured dramas, Rocky – the true epitome of the American underdog tale. Spawning five sequels, and winning the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1976, this iconic character returns, detailing the next chapter in the Rocky franchise – Creed.

Michael B. Jordan – one of cinema’s most notable and diverse young actors – stars as Adonis Creed, the illegitimate son of the renowned late Heavyweight Champion of the World, Apollo. In the midst of pursuing his boxing dream, the young fighter is determined to make it own his own, determined not carry on the legacy of his father. However, he soon tracks down former boxing champion and close friend of Apollo Creed, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone).

Creed has universal praise with Stallone deservedly picking up the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor this past weekend. With Stallone tipped for Oscar win, and Jordan receiving critical acclaim as Adonis, Creed is a powerful and admirable continuation of the much-loved and esteemed film saga.

Jordan stars alongside Stallone, Tessa Thompson (Dear White People, 2014) and reunites with his Fruitvale Station (2013) director Ryan Coogler – a film which won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival.

I spoke with Coogler about continuing the Rocky legacy and his personal inspiration behind making the film.