FIRST BLOOD

a film by Ted Kotcheff released through Orion Pictures in 1982

Free of the wanton violence of its sequels, First Blood takes a thought-provoking look at the effects of marginalization on our most vulnerable (and dangerous) citizens.  When his best friend dies and callous deputies cross the line from discipline to torture, John Rambo has his fill.  First, he escapes.  And when his pleas to be left alone go unheeded, he seeks revenge.  Brian Dennehy plays the nominal villain—a regimented lawman who can't understand why a Viet Nam veteran should be given more consideration than a Korea vet (like himself).
 
But the Sheriff is no match for super-soldier Rambo, as speechifying Colonel Trautman delights in reminding these hicks-in-the-sticks.
 
Aided by a very gloomy and cold Pacific Northwest setting, and featuring elaborate escapes and cathartic mass-destruction, First Blood saved Sylvester Stallone's career, and set the standard for the more-polished (but less-believable) actioneers of the '80s.

 

★★★★☆

Best for ages 12+

FEATURING

SYLVESTER STALLONE, RICHARD CRENNA, AND BRIAN DENNEHY

© 2023 Ian C. Bloom