Film fans across the UK are in for a hefty dose of 1980s nostalgia tonight, as ITV4 broadcasts the classic action sequel Rambo: First Blood Part II at 9pm. The film, which first hit cinemas in 1985, sees Sylvester Stallone return to his legendary role as the troubled Vietnam War veteran, John Rambo.
The Mission That Defined an Era
Arriving three years after the original First Blood, this follow-up significantly ramps up the action. The plot finds Rambo in prison, offered a deal by his former commanding officer, Colonel Trautman (Richard Crenna). His mission: return to Vietnam to locate American prisoners of war. In exchange for success, he will receive a full pardon.
Rambo agrees, vowing to avoid combat and complete the operation cleanly. However, it quickly becomes apparent that those overseeing the mission have other plans. When a personal tragedy strikes due to American military actions, Rambo's restraint vanishes. He soon reverts to his formidable, one-man-army persona, taking justice into his own hands with explosive results.
A Peak-Performance Stallone and Lasting Legacy
Released in the same year as Rocky IV, the film captured Sylvester Stallone at the height of his box-office dominance. It transformed the Rambo character into a global cultural phenomenon, complete with a distinctive headband and a slew of quotable lines that perfectly encapsulate 80s cinema.
The movie has been described by critics as the quintessential 'guilty pleasure'. One review on Rotten Tomatoes notes, "Not nearly as good as the original, but arguably more iconic. This is arguably what most people think of when they hear the name Rambo." Fans continue to praise Stallone's 'incredible' performance and the film's spectacular action sequences, which feature some of the most memorable explosions in cinematic history.
How to Watch This 80s Action Classic
For those seeking a hit of pure, nostalgic action, Rambo: First Blood Part II airs on ITV4 tonight at 9pm. If you miss the broadcast, the film is also available to stream on-demand via ITVX and Amazon Prime. It remains a defining piece of 1980s pop culture and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
