“First Blood” (1982) is a gripping action thriller that introduces audiences to John Rambo, a Vietnam War veteran portrayed with raw intensity by Sylvester Stallone. Directed by Ted Kotcheff, the film delves into the psychological scars of war and the challenges faced by returning soldiers. Rambo, wandering through a small town, is harassed by the local sheriff (Brian Dennehy) and his deputies, leading to a series of escalating confrontations. The film’s tension builds as Rambo uses his survival skills to outmaneuver his pursuers in the dense forest, creating a cat-and-mouse game that is both thrilling and poignant.

Stallone’s portrayal of Rambo is deeply affecting, capturing the character’s vulnerability and suppressed rage. The film’s action sequences are intense and well-executed, but it is the underlying commentary on the treatment of veterans and the effects of PTSD that give “First Blood” its enduring impact. Jerry Goldsmith’s haunting score further enhances the film’s emotional depth. Unlike typical action movies of its time, “First Blood” balances explosive action with a thought-provoking narrative, making it a standout film that launched the iconic Rambo franchise.