Review of First Blood (1982) by Shane M — 08 Jul 2014

One of the best action movies of the '80s and all time, as well as showcasing one of Sylvester Stallone's finest performances. Adapted from David Morrell's novel of the same name, First Blood (also known as Rambo: First Blood) follows John Rambo, a Vietnam vet, and the last survivor of his unit traveling to Hope, Washington, and getting arrested by police.

At the police station, the officers treat him similar to the way he was treated in Vietnam,causing him to freak out, flee custody, and hide out into the mountains, forcing him to build traps and battle the police department while they try to capture him.

The film was nothing close to what its later sequels ended up becoming, nonstop action romps lacking character development, good acting, writing, direction, and appeal towards fans of the first film. This film is actually a very complex, action film with a healthy blend of action and complex character study, giving audiences something to watch as it isn't just nonstop action and no plot.

The film paint a complex portrait of its main protagonist Rambo as a psychologically damaged man due to his experiences in Vietnam, which include comrades being killed or severely injured, being tortured by the Vietnamese soldiers, and being mistreated by others.

Thee is also other complex characters, like main antagonist Will Teasle, an arrogant sheriff who strongly dislikes drifters, which is why the reason why he arrests Rambo (was drifting into Hope, Washington), and becomes intent on killing Rambo after head deputy Art Gald is killed by Rambo.

Another layered character is Colonel Sam Trautman, a soldier flown to Hope, Washington in order to persuade Rambo to surrender. The film allows a dark tone and a good amount of depth into the story, but still offer up great action sequences, especially near the end with a few explosions and heavy damage with an M60, but most of the action happens in the woods, where there's lots of police officers dying, traps set by Rambo setting off, and dodging heavy ambushes and bullets.

Michael Kozoll, William Sakheim, and Sylvester Stallone offer audiences complex characters, and shocking moments throughout. Ted Kotcheff offer audiences heavy violence, disturbingly believable performances, perfect action sequences, and flawless execution.

The main cast is perfect, especially the three main leads Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna, and Brian Dennehy. A must-see for action fans, and one of the most engaging action movies ever.