Some movies become blockbusters, others become cultural touchstones. Rambo: First Blood is both—and something more. Released in 1982, the first film wasn’t the over-the-top, explosion-heavy spectacle most people think of today. Instead, it was a sharp critique of America’s treatment of Vietnam veterans, packaged in a tense, gritty thriller. John Rambo wasn’t a muscle-bound action … Continue reading Rambo, Reality, and the Myths Behind the Man: 10 Facts About the Rambo Movies
There is a wooden statue of Rambo…
There is a wooden statue of Rambo from First Blood, in Hope, BC, Canada to commemorate the filming of the movie there. The carver, Ryan Villiers, took the challenge on and he delivered in a big way. Apparently Sylvester Stallone got wind of it and Ryan wanted his blessing before the carving was put up. […]
Rambo has been adopted into…
Rambo has been adopted into the folklore of the Kamula people. They believe he will fight to defend Papua New Guinea in the Third World War.
The original Rambo 3 VHS release had in the end credits…
The original Rambo 3 VHS release had in the end credits: “Dedicated to the brave Mujaheddin fighters”, later changed to “Dedicated to the gallant people of Afghanistan.”
A real-life Rambo evaded thermal-imaging helicopters, armored vehicles…
A real-life Rambo evaded thermal-imaging helicopters, armored vehicles, and nearly 1,000 police officers for 48 days after murdering a state trooper with a sniper rifle in northern Pennsylvania. The man, Eric Frein, learned his skills as an Eagle scout and war reenactor.
Sylvester Stallone hated the first 3.5 hour cut of “Rambo…
Sylvester Stallone hated the first 3.5 hour cut of “Rambo: First Blood Part I” so much, that it made him and his agent sick. He wanted to buy the movie and destroy it thinking it was a career killer. Ultimately, a heavily re-edited 93 minute cut was sent for theatrical release.