A cinematic landmark that reshaped the action genre is set to captivate audiences once again. The iconic war film First Blood, starring Sylvester Stallone, will be broadcast on ITV4 tonight at 9.35pm.
From Box Office Hit to Cultural Phenomenon
Released in 1982, First Blood introduced the world to John J. Rambo, a traumatised Vietnam veteran adrift in America. The plot is triggered when Rambo, searching for an old comrade, enters the small town of Hope, Washington. There, he faces brutal prejudice and harassment from the town's sheriff, Will Teasle, leading to his arrest.
The cruelty he endures at the hands of the police forces Rambo to confront harrowing flashbacks of his time as a Prisoner of War in Vietnam. This unleashes a furious survival instinct, turning the hunters into the hunted in a tense and gritty narrative. Directed by Ted Kotcheff and based on David Morrell's novel, the film was a major box office success, grossing over $125 million worldwide.
A Critical Re-evaluation
Interestingly, despite its commercial triumph, First Blood received a mixed reception from critics upon its initial release. However, its stature has grown enormously over the past four decades. It is now widely hailed as a genre-defining movie that paved the way for future action thrillers by blending explosive set pieces with profound psychological drama.
This shift in opinion is reflected in its impressive 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics now praise its cultural impact and raw power. One review notes it as "a significant American film that changed culture and politics back in 1982." Another highlights Stallone's performance, bringing "intense physicality" and "hangdog vulnerability" to the role of a man taking revenge on a cruel establishment.
Enduring Legacy and Fan Adoration
Fans continue to celebrate the film for its grounded approach and emotional depth, elements often missing from modern action cinema. Many point to Stallone's powerful final monologue as a heartbreaking summary of the alienation felt by Vietnam veterans returning home.
Viewers appreciate that the film avoids over-the-top special effects, instead focusing on a sombre tone and methodical action set against the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest. As one fan summarised, it plays like a post-war drama with action as the icing on the cake.
For those wanting to witness this piece of cinematic history, First Blood airs on ITV4 on Saturday, January 3, at 9.35pm. Its legacy continues, with a new prequel film reportedly in development.
