Ted Kotcheff
Rambo

Rambo was an exceptional film, hitting cinema screens in the 1980s. The success of one of the most famous films in the world, and in the history of cinema, is owed to the performance of Sly (Sylvester Stallone) or Rocky for those who remember him in a boxing ring.

For the few (too young or too snobbish) who still don’t know who Rambo is, let me tell you: he's a Vietnam War veteran, who, just after leaving the infamous country of the 'yellow faces', returns home. After experiencing the tragedy of war and the terrible adventure in Vietnam, our Rambo won't receive such a warm welcome.

He won't be awaited at home as a hero, he won't be given the honor the great hero deserved. Especially not by the sheriff: wicked, bad, and relentless against Rambo. Due to a misunderstanding over a knife and John Rambo's rigidity, the hero will soon find himself fleeing from the clutches of the police, who, led by the sheriff, are determined to catch him. Amusingly, Rambo, despite being alone, will throw an entire army of police into disarray. He was one of the best fighters in Vietnam and now gives a hard time to his compatriots in law enforcement.

Besides the spectacular battle and fight scenes, which see Stallone in great shape, killing and mocking the bad guys in a sometimes almost comedic way, the success of the film is also due to the moral behind the story: Vietnam scars you inside; those who have been there know it hurts, others should recognize it. Great performance by Sly, who shows the world audience that he’s not just an actor fit for boxing roles, but can also portray dramatic roles with excellent skill.

An epochal film for those of my generation. With two very good sequels, but not quite as successful. This remains an icon, a must, an unmatched work. And according to my very personal opinion, the best war film in history.

Cameo for Richard Crenna as his former Vietnam commander. The splendid Brian Dennehy plays the paunchy sheriff who gives no quarter to Sylvester. Great actors. Excellent direction by Kotcheff, though it's a pity that the director’s chair was not confirmed for him for the two sequels. Instead, it was given to two so-called unknowns who somewhat discarded Kotcheff's poetic and delicately dreamlike vision.

Engaging, it makes you cry, at times it's amusing, at times reflective: a masterpiece with a capital M. Great film. It deserves a review, even from those who saw it back in the day.