One of the few franchise rejuvenation that had its intended effect, Creed was the rare blockbuster that embodied the spirit of the original while opening up the story in worthwhile directions. While director Ryan Coogler won’t be back for the follow-up, due to his busy schedule reteaming with his star Michael B. Jordan on Black Panther, another promising up-and-coming director has taken the reigns. Steven Caple Jr., helmer of the Sundance hit The Land, directs Creed II, and today the first trailer has arrived.
The eighth film in the franchise, it features the return of Jordan and Sylvester Stallone, and Tessa Thompson, as well as Phylicia Rashad, Andre Ward, and Wood Harris. In the follow-up, Creed will go against Viktor Drago (Florian Munteanu), son of Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren, who also returns. With filming only wrapping up earlier this month, check out the first trailer below ahead of a November release.
Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed. Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family’s past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what’s worth fighting for, and discover that nothing’s more important than family. Creed II is about going back to basics to rediscover what made you a champion in the first place, and remembering that, no matter where you go, you can’t escape your history.
Creed II opens on November 21.