Cheapened by two sequels, First Blood is unfortunately overlooked because of the follow-ups. This is not a true action film, but a drama, and a classic one at that. Sylvester Stallone couldn't have been cast better.
From the start, it's hard to take John Rambo as a hero. The set-up is quick and brief, providing just enough information to let the audience know why Rambo does what he does. The entire film depends on the opening scenes and whether or not the audience has bought it by the time he makes his escape from the local police. It does, and after that begins one of the more intense stand offs in American film history.
It's the character that makes First Blood a classic. The lone drifter angle works perfectly in the film, and even when he's in the forest surviving as he knows how, there's an understanding of who Rambo is. His character may be built in the opening moments, but it's in the forest as he dismantles an entire police force single handedly that Stallone's character really takes shape.
The setting is a spectacular one, allowing the viewer to see some incredible violence. It's not as harsh now 20+ years later, but it's impossible not to wince when the spiked tree trunk finds its victim. It's all negated at the end when Rambo goes into the "commando" mode and sets the series up as a parody piece for pop culture shows. That's one of the minor flaws in the film, and it barely detracts from what a classic this one is. (**** out of *****)
For the UMD release, Lions Gate has preserved the original aspect ratio of 2.40:1. Kudos to them for not following other companies and cropping it down. Unfortunately, the transfer is ugly, a real shame given the superb quality of the print with a few stray specks barely evident. The black levels are the problem, fading the entire picture and in darker sequences, rendering them almost unwatchable. The compression is the main issue. The screen is too small to pick up on the film grain present on the DVD, and this looks like the same print. (**)
Article comments
1 - Paul J. Marasa
I was happy to see a review of First Blood that reminds us of its dark heart. I didn't realize Rambo originally committed suicide. You're right: It makes perfect sense. I usually get funny looks when I insist that 85% of First Blood makes for one of the top five or so best movies made in response to Vietnam--or of the idea of the warrior hero, from Achilles onward, who regrets where his code leads him. Thanks for getting it right.
2 - George Burke Movie Reviews
I was so young when I saw the Rambo First Blood. I a going to have to revisit this one.