#365: Round Three, Pt. 1 — Rocky III (Patreon)

Originating as a late-stage Rocky sequel, Creed has since evolved into its own multi-sequel franchise, with the new third entry bringing star Michael B. Jordan back into the ring as well as the director’s chair. That’s the same dual role Sylvester Stallone had for 1982’s Rocky III, which similarly finds its star prizefighter far from his scrappy beginnings, and needing to humble himself in order to find glory again. There’s a lot connecting these two films, but only one of them can boast the involvement of Hulk Hogan, so we’re joined by critic, friend of the show, and Rocky III advocate Matt Singer to discuss what issues Stallone and the franchise he defined were working through with this underestimated second sequel. Plus, our extended discussion of extended sequences continues in Feedback as we consider some less-loved examples of the long take.

Please share your comments, thoughts, and questions about Rocky III, Creed III, or anything else in the world of film, by sending an email to comments@nextpictureshow.net, or leaving a short voicemail at (773) 234-9730.

Outro music: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor