First Blood

In my profile, I indicate that I don't like action movies, but that's not entirely true. There are quite a few exceptions that confirm the rule, especially those that don't take themselves seriously, like the Die Hard series. However, Rambo is a different case. The film embodies elements and genre clichés that I don't like in action movies. It is one of the first films in its subgenre and essentially defined this category of films, and is considered its symbol. I don't feel the need to argue with the cult, as I generally agree that it is the most valuable film in the series about the indestructible jungle fighter and also the only film in the series that can be taken at least somewhat seriously or has some value in terms of cinematic art. The script and direction still try to portray certain psychological aspects of the characters, and there are several decent supporting actors - by the way, Richard Crenna certainly isn't one of them, but Brian Dennehy deserves full recognition. However, in terms of the technical quality of today's action films, the high rating of the original Rambo is clearly influenced by nostalgia and the average age of users. Overall impression: 40%. (25/05/2009)

Rambo is not about nostalgia! Even after more than 20 years, it's still an alarming reflection of the times and one that makes the absolute most of the Vietnam syndrome. Although Rambo is one of the model pillars of 1980s action movies, the film stands out for its surprisingly intelligent plot and believable action sequences that are a joy to watch. Stallone earns points for his acting and his minimalist facial expressions fit the role of a war-torn veteran. And when he laments the losses of the war at the end, the audience’s emotions are at full attention. "They drew first blood, not me!" (04/09/2007)

Today's rewatch wasn't my first, of course, but I felt it was time to jot down my thoughts on the movie. Well, I have to admit that the film still resonates with me after all these years. It's got well-executed action, suspense, and that gloomy atmosphere. However, now that I'm not twelve anymore, I couldn't overlook what was, and I think still is, its main message. When a country sends its soldiers into a war conflict that ends in defeat, these soldiers become, in a way, unwanted upon their return, serving as a reminder of that loss. The United States essentially cast aside the Vietnamese veterans, and I'm not just talking about the politicians. Many of these guys were sent to a place they didn't want to be, to do things they didn't want to do, and upon their return (if they returned), they often believed that human life, including their own, had little value. Instead of help, they found everyone turning their backs on them. This movie highlighted that stark reality. / Lesson learned: When someone points "the pig" at you, it may not be as funny as it sounds. (13/11/2022)

At last, I saw the entire movie from start to finish today. (I mean even with the beginning, when John goes to the lake and asks about his dead friend). What else can I say? Rambo is a cult classic and, right after Rocky, it is Sylvester Stallone's most famous role. Contrary to the sequels, the first movie is more focused on survival in the wilderness and post-traumatic experiences from the Vietnam War and that makes the first movie the best one of the trilogy. Amazing music from Jerry Goldsmith and wild, yet beautiful landscapes (coincidentally, the plot is set in the state of Maine, birth place of the wizard of horror, Stephen King) raise the overall effect to 5 stars. (26/10/2006)

During my prepubescent years, the first Rambo was, for me, a pure action-filled masterpiece with almost an artistic psyche, making me appreciate myself for having it as my favorite from the entire series. And although it no longer makes sense to expect anything more from the prologue of a sad killer's story, John is still an unquestionable action idol for me. (17/03/2006)