“Creed” isn’t your normal, run-of-the-mill, winter sports movie hastily cranked out by some film company just as a straight money grab. No, instead it is made eminently clear throughout that care and hard work are why “Creed” is what it is.

But what is it?

“Creed” stars Michael B. Jordan as young Adonis Creed, a self-trained amateur boxer whose father just so happens to be Apollo Creed, rival of Rocky Balboa in the first four “Rocky” movies.

Jordan delivered an outstanding performance. Not one time did I have any trouble suspending my disbelief because his acting was so flawless.

‘Sly’ Stallone reprised his old role as the now former bruising boxer, still as hard to understand as ever. This time, the aging former heavyweight is there to provide his expertise and experience, with an ample amount of his signature humorous quips.

Tessa Thompson plays Bianca, a neighbor of Creed in the same building. Creed soon notices Bianca and naturally makes a move to get with her. The chemistry between Jordan and Thompson comes across so well on screen and that made me really care about the health of their relationship.

Tony Bellew does a great job as the antagonist, ‘Pretty’ Ricky Conlan. The actions he takes to provoke Creed and his crew make it easy to dislike him, the mark of an acting job well done. Not to mention his facial expressions, which were at times hilarious and at other times intimidating and menacing.

But the fight scenes are what really make this movie special. Makes sense, after all this is a film where boxing is a main element to the story. The set designs, whether they be for a dusty warehouse used as an area to hold boxing matches, or the bright lights of a championship title fight in Las Vegas, it is a feast for the eyes.

Slow motion shots can definitely be over done, but for Creed it works because it is selectively applied, like when a boxer lands a big blow.

The in-ring camera shots during the fights were amazing, making you feel like you are right there in the squared-circle with them.

There isn’t much about this movie that is not to like. It’s easily a candidate for best picture at the next Academy Awards. Do yourself a favor and see this film.