Creed II Is Now Filming In Philadelphia

MGM Studios officially announced today that Creed II has begun filming in Philadelphia. The film is being produced by Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures (MGM) and Warner Bros. Pictures.

Ryan Coogler, who directed the first film, will return as an executive producer. Steven Caple Jr. will direct from a script by Sylvester Stallone. Stallone will also star in the film as Rocky Balboa, with Michael B. Jordan returning as Adonis Creed, Tessa Thompson as Bianca, Phylicia Rashad as Mary Anne, Wood Harris as Tony ‘Little Duke’ Burton, Andre Ward as Danny ‘Stuntman’ Wheele, Florian “The Big Nasty” Munteanu as Viktor Drago, Dolph Lundgren as Ivan Drago and Russell Hornsby as Buddy Marcelle. It will be released in theaters on November 21.

Coogler said in the official press release: “When I wrote and directed ‘Creed,’ I wanted to tell a human story about a family from a new perspective, while also paying homage to the Rocky characters we’ve all grown up knowing and loving. I’ve known Steven was an amazing filmmaker since our days at USC film school together, so I can’t wait to see what he, Sly, Mike, and Tessa bring to this next chapter.”

Caple Jr. added: “It’s an honor to be a part of the franchise and work with such a thoughtful team. I got involved because I’ve always been a Rocky fan and I enjoy stories with heart and substance. But when Ryan put his touch on ‘Creed’ I felt another level of connection to the franchise. It started to feel personal for many different reasons. This next ‘Creed’ is a tale beyond the boxing ring and dives deep into family, legacy, and fears. I’m excited to share my view and collaborate with the talented cast and crew.”

Producer Irwin Winkler said: “Ryan and Steven are voices for their generation and their shared vision for Creed has brought the Rocky franchise to an entirely new audience. We know audiences will continue to embrace the legacy that Sly created so many years ago.”

Here’s a synopsis: 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.

The film will be produced by Irwin Winkler, Charles Winkler, William Chartoff, David Winkler, Kevin King-Templeton, and Stallone. Coogler, Jordan and Guy Riedel will executive produce.