Creed III: Adonis Creed’s Past Resurfaces in Explosive Super Bowl Trailer and Michael B. Jordan’s Directorial Debut

The highly anticipated Creed III is poised to deliver a monumental cinematic experience, with its recent Super Bowl LVII trailer setting the stage for an intense, emotionally charged showdown. The latest glimpse into the film, unveiled during one of the most-watched sporting events of the year, confirmed what fans have eagerly speculated: Adonis “Donnie” Creed, played by the formidable Michael B. Jordan, will face his most personal and challenging opponent yet. This isn’t just another fight in the ring; it’s a battle against a haunting past, embodied by a former friend, Damian Anderson, portrayed by the electrifying Jonathan Majors. As the March 3 release date approaches, the anticipation for this groundbreaking installment, which also marks Jordan’s directorial debut, continues to build, promising a narrative that explores themes of legacy, redemption, and the inescapable grip of one’s history.

The Super Bowl Trailer: A Glimpse into Adonis’s Personal Crisis

The Super Bowl LVII trailer, a powerful “Big Game” spot, offered a more extensive look at the central conflict that defines Creed III. It immediately plunged viewers into the heart of Adonis Creed’s dilemma: his childhood friend, Damian, re-emerging from a lengthy prison sentence, now driven by resentment and a desire for what he believes was rightfully his. Damian’s presence is not merely a physical threat but a profound emotional and psychological one, forcing Adonis to confront choices made and paths taken long ago. The trailer masterfully oscillates between intense boxing action and poignant character interactions, highlighting the deep personal stakes involved. Mary Anne Creed (Phylicia Rashad), Adonis’s mother, delivers a chilling warning that resonates throughout the footage: “There may have been a time when Damian had your back. But he doesn’t anymore.” This line underscores the irreversible shift in their relationship, transforming a bond of brotherhood into a rivalry fueled by bitterness and ambition.

Jonathan Majors’ portrayal of Damian radiates a raw intensity, positioning him as a formidable adversary who challenges Adonis on every level. Damian’s declaration, “I’m just getting started, little brother,” isn’t just a taunt; it’s a mission statement. He makes it clear he’s “coming for everything” Adonis has built – his championship, his fame, his life. This isn’t just about winning a belt; it’s about reclaiming a life lost and evening a perceived score. The trailer culminates in a visceral exchange of brutal punches in the boxing ring, symbolizing not just a physical fight, but a collision of past and present, dreams shattered and ambitions reignited. The visual storytelling, combined with the powerful performances teased, suggests that Creed III will be a deeply introspective film for Adonis, pushing him to his absolute limits both inside and outside the ring.

The past always finds its way back. Watch the extended Big Game spot now and experience Michael B. Jordan and Jonathan Majors battle it out in #Creed3 – only in theaters March 3. pic.twitter.com/IqOh6ZVMUp

— #CREED3 (@creedmovie) February 13, 2023

Adonis’s World Under Threat: Family and Legacy at Stake

Adonis Creed has, by all accounts, built an enviable life since the events of the previous films. He’s a boxing champion, a successful entrepreneur, and a devoted family man with his fiancée, Bianca Taylor (Tessa Thompson), and their daughter, Amara. Damian’s return, however, threatens to dismantle this carefully constructed reality. Bianca, a pillar of strength and reason for Adonis, expresses her deep concern, imploring him not to let Damian “destroy everything you’ve built.” This line highlights the profound impact Damian’s presence has on Adonis’s entire world, not just his boxing career. The film will delve into the complexities of their shared history, exploring how past decisions and circumstances have shaped both men, leading them to this inevitable collision.

The first trailer for Creed III, which premiered on October 18, set a similar tone, emphasizing the theme of inescapable history. Its release coincided with striking character posters that visually encapsulated the film’s core message. Donnie’s poster ominously read, “You can’t run…” while Damian’s completed the thought: “From your past.” These marketing elements effectively established the film’s central conflict as a deeply personal one, rooted in the unbreakable bonds and resentments forged in childhood. The narrative promises to explore how Adonis grapples with his past, his responsibility towards Damian, and his need to protect his present and future. Wood Harris reprises his role as “Little Duke,” Adonis’s boxing trainer, providing a familiar and steady presence amidst the turmoil.

Michael B. Jordan’s Vision: Stepping into the Director’s Chair

One of the most significant aspects of Creed III is Michael B. Jordan’s directorial debut. After starring in the previous two installments, Jordan takes the reins, a decision that speaks volumes about his commitment to the character and the franchise. This transition from lead actor to director is a testament to his artistic ambition and his deep understanding of Adonis Creed’s journey. Directing a major studio film, especially one within an established and beloved franchise, is a monumental undertaking, and Jordan has embraced this challenge with palpable enthusiasm.

In March 2021, when his directorial role was announced, Jordan shared his aspirations with Deadline: “Directing has always been an aspiration, but the timing had to be right. Creed III is that moment — a time in my life where I’ve grown more sure of who I am, holding agency in my own story, maturing personally, growing professionally. I look forward to sharing the next chapter of Adonis Creed’s story with the awesome responsibility of being its director and namesake.” This statement reveals a profound connection to the material and a desire to bring a fresh, personal perspective to Adonis’s narrative. His experience as an actor in the role provides him with unique insights into the character’s psychology and motivations, promising a nuanced and authentic portrayal of Adonis’s internal struggles. The previous films were helmed by acclaimed directors Ryan Coogler (Creed) and Steven Caple Jr. (Creed II), both of whom set a high bar for emotional depth and compelling action. Jordan’s take is expected to continue this tradition while adding his distinctive artistic voice.

The Enduring Legacy of the Creed and Rocky Franchises

Creed III builds upon the rich cinematic legacy established by the original Rocky franchise and its successful Creed spinoffs. The Rocky films, starring Sylvester Stallone as the iconic Rocky Balboa, captivated audiences for decades with their underdog narratives and inspiring messages of perseverance. The Creed series skillfully injected new life into this universe, focusing on Adonis Creed, the son of Rocky’s formidable rival, Apollo Creed. The first Creed film in 2015 introduced Adonis as a hungry, talented boxer determined to carve out his own legacy, distinct from his father’s shadow. Creed II in 2018 saw him confront the son of Ivan Drago, the man who killed his father in the ring, further cementing his place as a champion.

However, Creed III marks a significant departure from previous installments in one key aspect: the absence of Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa. While Stallone remains a producer on the film, his character will not appear on screen. This decision, while initially met with mixed reactions from fans, signifies the full maturation of the Creed franchise, allowing Adonis to step entirely out of Rocky’s shadow and stand on his own as the central figure. It underscores the narrative’s intention to explore Adonis’s identity and legacy independent of his legendary mentor. This shift emphasizes that Adonis’s journey, his struggles, and his triumphs are now entirely his own, making his confrontation with Damian even more critical to defining his character and his future.

Themes of Destiny, Redemption, and the Unseen Scars

The core themes woven throughout Creed III are universal and deeply resonant: the weight of the past, the pursuit of redemption, and the nature of personal identity. Damian represents Adonis’s past, a road not taken, a potential alternate future. His resentment stems from a life tragically derailed, contrasting sharply with Adonis’s rise to stardom. This dynamic forces Adonis to confront not just an external opponent, but also his own conscience and complicity, however indirect, in Damian’s fate. The film explores whether the scars of the past can truly heal, or if they are destined to resurface, demanding reconciliation or an ultimate confrontation.

The boxing ring, a perennial metaphor in this franchise, becomes the ultimate stage for these complex themes to play out. It’s not merely a place for physical prowess but for emotional catharsis and the battle for self-definition. Creed III is set to deliver a raw, authentic, and emotionally impactful story that transcends the conventional sports drama. It promises to be a powerful exploration of what it means to face your demons, protect what you love, and forge a legacy that is truly your own. As Michael B. Jordan guides this narrative from both sides of the camera, audiences can anticipate a film that is not only visually stunning and action-packed but also deeply introspective and profoundly moving, ensuring that the legacy of Adonis Creed continues to evolve in compelling and unexpected ways.