First Blood

First Blood is a 1982 American action war film directed by Ted Kotcheff and starring Sylvester Stallone as Vietnam War veteran John Rambo.

First Blood is a 1982 American action war film directed by Ted Kotcheff and starring Sylvester Stallone as Vietnam War veteran John Rambo. It is based on David Morrell's 1972 novel of the same name and is the first film in the Rambo franchise. The story follows Rambo after he is mistreated by local law enforcement in a small Washington town and becomes the target of a manhunt.

Plot

The film follows John Rambo as he arrives in a small Washington town looking for a former military friend. After conflict with the local sheriff and police, he is pushed into a violent escape and a prolonged pursuit in the wilderness.

Production

First Blood was directed by Ted Kotcheff and co-written by Michael Kozoll, William Sackheim, and Sylvester Stallone. It was adapted from David Morrell's novel and helped establish Rambo as a major action-film character. The film was shot in part in British Columbia, including areas around Hope, which doubled for the story's Washington setting.

Release and reception

Released in 1982, the film became the first entry in a long-running franchise. It is widely recognized as a defining early-1980s action film and as a more serious, character-driven entry than later Rambo films.

Legacy

The film launched one of cinema's most recognizable action franchises and turned John Rambo into a lasting popular-culture figure. It also remains notable for its focus on veteran trauma and social alienation.