After dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) has been thriving in both his career and family life. When a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy, Damian (Jonathan Majors), resurfaces after serving a long sentence in prison, he is eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damian – a fighter who has nothing to lose.
For in-depth thoughts on Creed III, please see my colleague Dom Fisher’s review from its original theatrical release here.
Video Quality
The 4K UHD Blu-Ray of Creed III really levels up the visual perfection when compared to the already solid Blu-Ray. When you have a disc that is wielding its Dolby Vision/HDR as well as this one, the choice is a no-brainer. The increased range of the color spectrum is such an asset to this film. The biggest benefits can be found in the contrast, which is deliberately implemented through the collaboration of Jordan and cinematographer Kramer Morgenthau. This film likes to play with shadow and stylized lighting, and these elements are more vivid and precisely delineated. Black levels contain a world of depth, staying deep and inky with great detail. The bright highlights from the ring lighting are more controlled with whites pure and balanced with no instances of blooming to be found. Any instances of compression artifacts and banding present on the Blu-Ray are alleviated with this 4K UHD disc.
The Dolby Vision also enriches the natural colors of the environments and within the clothing and production design. These colors are already impressive on Blu-Ray, but they ascend on 4K UHD with their unbridled vibrancy. The precise application of HDR really makes the film pop on the screen. There is some really distinct production design featured in the film which you can really appreciate with this transfer. The distinct landscapes presented here never lack incredible detail. Every setting is handled with impeccable precision which you expect from a modern disc. The Blu-Ray is great, but Warner Bros. has delivered another can’t-miss transfer on this latest 4K release.
Audio Quality
This 4K UHD Blu-Ray comes with a knockout Dolby Atmos audio mix that is completely immersive and ready to transport you into this world. The film employs all manner of sound effects and a combination of an original score and memorable soundtrack to settle you into the narrative. There is a surplus of activity in the low end, especially when the hits are landing with such force. Dialogue is crisp and clear and is never overshadowed by any competing sounds. The height channels are used to perfect effect as you get a more three-dimensional soundscape without ever sounding artificial. All of the sounds are coming from the intended directions, and there are absolutely no technical issues with the track. This one packs a punch thanks to Warner Bros.
Special Features
- Michael B. Jordan – In The Ring/Behind The Camera: A pretty decent 10-minute featurette in which the cast and creative team discuss the natural evolution of Michael B. Jordan into the director’s chair, what his vision brought to the story, the ways in which he worked with the performers and more.
- Donnie and Dame – There’s No Enemy Like The Past: A nine-minute piece which takes a look at how the film functions as a flashback and a sequel, the dynamics between the two main characters, recruiting Majors to this role, their journey together and more.
- Deleted Scenes: Three unused scenes totaling nearly five minutes are provided here including more scenes with Dame, Amara and Duke. Some decent stuff in here, but it makes sense why most of this was cut for time.
Final Thoughts
Creed III is one of the most satisfying boxing movies we have seen in some time. Michael B. Jordan brings as much energy to the screen behind the camera in his feature directorial debut as he does in the titular role which feels more nuanced than ever. The film does a really admirable job of balancing the excitement of the matches with the internal and environmental struggles of the characters. The entire ensemble is bringing their A-game. This is one of the best entries in the franchise to date. Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has released a new 4K UHD Blu-Ray featuring a terrific A/V presentation and a couple of good special features. If you are a fan of this series in the slightest, this one is not to be missed. Recommended
Creed III will be available to purchase on 4K UHD Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray and DVD on May 23, 2023. The film is currently available on Digital.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.